Young Longford man ‘has to take responsibility’

A young man whose engagement with the Probation Services was described as “poor” will return before Longford District Court in January to update on whether he has secured an educational course before Judge Bernadette Owens decides on a sentence.

Martin McDonnell (18) who lives in a caravan in Ballyminion, Longford is charged with the possession of a long blunt instrument, two counts of criminal damage, entering a building as a trespasser and possession of a blade and a bar. All charges are from December 5, 2021.

Solicitor Brid Mimnagh acknowledged that the probation report before the court was not favourable, but commented that it was “not the worst”. Judge Owens said Mr McDonnell “promises a lot, but does not deliver”.

The defendant said he wishes to engage in an education course. He told of being offered a cookery course, but didn't want to pursue that career. The court was told that Mr McDonnell has a “very poor attendance record with probation and welfare appointments”.

The judge said the defendant must progress his situation either with education or employment. Judge Owens stated that it was difficult to recommend further probation supervision given Mr McDonnell's engagement with the service.

Ms Mimnagh told the court the defendant has been in contact with the EDI Centre to secure an education spot. The judge said: “He talks a lot, but does not follow up on it.”

The solicitor said her client is “from a chaotic background” and went to live with his father in a caravan, but Mr McDonnell's dad is now in a nursing home and the defendant now fends for himself.
Judge Owens asked Sergeant Enda Daly if the defendant has come to any unfavourable Garda attention since the incident. The sergeant replied: “Not to my knowledge.”

Remanding the defendant on continuing bail to January 24 for directions Judge Owens said McDonnell needs to do a young offenders programme before he starts education course. The judge said she would not refer him back to probation services, but added: “He has to take responsibility,” and gave Gardai liberty to re-enter the matter if anything arose.