Laois Gardaí respond to disturbance outside Courthouse

Gardaí were called to the Courthouse in Portlaoise following a disturbance outside the court on Monday. 

It’s understood a number of attendees of the court had gathered outside and one individual stopped traffic on the Main Street. 

Portlaoise Gardaí confirmed to the Leinster Express/Laois Live that they responded to an incident. The individuals dispersed when Gardaí attended the scene. 

“The guards were called. There was nobody arrested,” a Garda spokesperson stated. 

Antisocial behaviour outside Portlaoise Courthouse has been highlighted by local politicians and business groups in recent years. 

READ ALSO: New Portlaoise Courthouse overlooked in latest round of funding

Fine Gael TD Willie Aird recently raised the matter with Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan in the Dail last October.  

“I heard from legal professionals and members of the Garda and the Irish Prison Service. They all said the same thing, namely the existing courthouse is no longer fit for purpose. It causes congestion, which has a negative effect on businesses and residents in the town. There is a lack of privacy and dignity for those attending the court,” Deputy Aird said at the time.