‘Drinking binge’ leads to woman’s arrest at Portlaoise Train Station

A woman appeared in court for being drunk and abusive at Portlaoise Train Station. 

Melissa Mulqueen, 46, of 82 Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, Limerick was arrested at Portlaoise Train Station on April 1. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant was “shouting and roaring” at 4.55pm on the date in question. He said the woman has no previous convictions. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was pleading at the earliest opportunity. She had been returning from Dublin when the incident occurred. 

“She has written a letter of apology,” said Ms Fitzpatrick. She said the woman had also brought a sum of €200 to court. 

Ms Fitzpatrick said the woman was travelling to meet members of her family who she generally isn’t in the company of. 

“Generally if she is taking a drink at all she would do it in the company of her sisters who would look after her,” said Ms Fitzpatrick. 

Judge Andrew Cody said he would strike the matter out if €400 is donated to the court poor box. 

“If she can afford to go on a binge on the train to Dublin she can afford that,”  said Judge Cody. 

Despite a request from Ms Fitzpatrick who outlined the woman’s financial situation, Judge Cody refused legal aid. 

“If she has enough money to go on a drinking binge she can pay your legal fees,” he stated. 

After a donation of €400 was made, Judge Cody struck out the charges of public intoxication and threatening and abusive behaviour.