Pregnant woman trying to come off weed, Laois court told
The woman appeared before Portlaoise District Court
Woman admits drug possession in Laois
A judge was “troubled” by the legal representation being provided to a woman facing drugs charges.
Dana Quinn (26) of Camira, Mountmellick appeared before Portlaoise District Court accused of possession of drugs for sale or supply at Portlaoise Garda Station on April 10 last.
Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant was accused of having cannabis valued at €460 and weighing scales. He said she had cooperated during the garda interview.
Defence Counsel Paul Noctor BL- who was instructed by Aonghus McCarthy and Co solicitors- said his client was pleading guilty to the offence.
“The drugs she had on her person were for her own use,” he told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court.
Judge Nicola Andrews noted she had come across the woman a week before and there had been no mention of this impending case.
“I am really, really troubled by the fact that last week it was a different barrister,” said Judge Andrews.
She said the woman was at risk of a custodial sentence and she is pregnant.
The defendant said she had been unable to get through to anyone at the office of her solicitor. “I haven’t even got a phone call,” she said.
“I think it is very unfair on the defendant,” said Judge Andrews.
Judge Andrews put the case back for a second call in order for the barrister to consult with his client.
When it was called later in the sitting, Mr Noctor said, “she informs me that she has smoked weed for most of her life.”
“She is trying to come off the weed now she is pregnant,” he said.
Judge Andrews said she would refer the woman to the probation services.
“I don’t know why it is that your solicitor isn’t contacting you,” said Judge Andrews.
She said the case could have been dealt with a week earlier had she been aware.
“Call into your solicitor and find out exactly what is going on,” she said.
The case was adjourned to September 2 for a probation services report.
“I have an application for legal aid,” Mr Noctor said.
Judge Andrews told him it was already assigned.