Abbeyleix man who struck wife contravened safety order

An Abbeyleix man charged with an offence in which he struck his wife on the arm has been placed on a probation bond.

James Maher, Thornberry, Abbeyleix, was charged with contravening a safety order.

When the case first came before the court in March, State's evidence outlined that on March 8 this year, at Thornberry, Abbeyleix, the wife of the accused rang gardaí to say her husband had returned home drunk.

She said he was shouting at her and struck her arm.

The accused had no previous convictions.

Judge Catherine Staines put the matter back for a victim impact statement and a probation report.

When the case returned to court last week, Judge Staines said there was a relatively positive report and the accused was finally dealing with his drinking.

His wife has said there is a huge change at home and life has improved significantly.

Judge Staines placed the accused on a nine-month probation order and directed him to continue attending Merchant’s Quay.

She also said he should find some way to attend the MEND programme.

The accused also had €400 compensation in court and Judge Staines directed that this go to the injured party.