Tiler who had drugs at Electric Picnic told to bring €1,000 to court

A tiler who admitted having drugs at Electric Picnic was told to return to court in February with €1,000.

Mark Brennan, 25, of 17 St Mark’s Park, Clondalkin, Dublin was charged with possession of cocaine and MDMA at Electric Picnic in Stradbally on September 3 last. 

Sgt JJ Kirby said the defendant handed over the drugs when stopped by Gardai at the Electric Picnic. He said the alleged value was €520 and the man was cooperative and had no previous convictions. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was admitting the offence. The drugs were to be shared with his friends and “he was the carrier for the group,” he explained. 

Mr Fitzgerald said the man was a tiler and had brought a letter from his employer. He described it as a “silly mistake in the context of a festival” and said he had brought €500 to court and was accompanied by his father.

“He is unlikely to trouble the court again,” added Mr Fitzgerald. 

Judge Andrew Cody said they were serious charges. He noted there were two different types of drugs involved.

However, he said he would give the man an opportunity to make a donation to Laois Hospice in the sum of €1,000. 

“I am going to give him until early Ferbruary, February 9th to do so,” said Judge Cody. 

“That is to be paid and a receipt furnished,” said Judge Cody. He said otherwise he would convict and fine the man €200 for each of the drugs for sale or supply charges. 

Judge Cody said there are tax benefits if sums over €250 are donated to charity.