This article is from page 16 of the 2012-10-02 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 16 JPG
A MAN who damaged an ambulance and insulted paramedics near Ennis General Hospital has received a suspended six-month prison sentence.
Paul Daly (50) was convicted of a breach of the peace and two counts of criminal damage in April.
The charges relate to an incident that occurred near Ennis General Hospital on Sandfield Road in Ennis on October 23 (2011). Mr Daly contested the charges.
The court previously heard that Mr Daly, with an address at 41 Sandfield Centre, Ennis kicked and banged an ambulance and another vehicle belonging to the Health Services Executive (HSE).
Medical personnel gave evidence of Mr Daly behaving in an aggressive manner towards a paramedic.
The disturbances occurred as emergency services responded to an urgent call of a person who was lying on Sandfield Road.
Mr Daly previously told the court that he had been frustrated by noise levels generated from construction work that had been ongoing at the hospital at the time.
A total of € 1100 worth of damage was caused to the HSE jeep while € 500 euros of damage was caused to the ambulance in the incident.
A report from the Probation Services was handed into Ennis District Court on Wednesday.
Defence solicitor Daragh Hassett described Mr Daly as a “complex individual” who had problems with alcohol. Mr Hassett said he had concerns over his client’s mental health. He added, “I think this man needs assistance.”
Mr Hassett told the court that Mr Daly has not been in any further trouble since the incident.
During proceedings, Mr Daly attempted to address Judge Patrick Durcan directly, at one point saying, “You call people in here to justify their actions and you don’t justify yours. It’s a two way street.”
Mr Hassett said that Mr Daly, who is originally from Dublin, holds “certain views”.
He added, “I don’t think he’s suitable for prison.”
Judge Durcan imposed a fine of € 250 and two consecutive three month prison sentences.
By virtue of Mr Daly’s circumstances and Mr Hassett’s comments on his behalf, Judge Durcan said he was suspending the sentences for a period of 12 months.