Man arrested in Portlaoise after six nations final

A suspended sentence was handed down to a man who was drunkenly roaring and shouting in Portlaoise.

Keith McEvoy, 38, of 80 St Brigid’s Place, Portlaoise was arrested on Main Street in Portlaoise at 5.50pm on March 18 last. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the accused was “highly intoxicated” and “shouting and roaring” on the day. Sgt Kirby said the man has 31 previous convictions but “lately he has improved”. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client had gotten his act together and normally wouldn’t drink. On this occasion he had gone out for the Six Nations final.

“He went out to watch the rugby match and became carried away,” said Mr Fitzgerald. 

“Clearly he needs to stop drinking,” he added. 

Mr Fitzgerald said his client had brought a letter of apology to court. 

Judge Andrew Cody fined the man €200 and sentenced him to three months in prison which he suspended for two years.