Cannabis to ease medical condition

Patrick McGothigan, aged 22, of 48B Quay Road, in the town was said to suffer from epilepsy and used the drug along with "heavy medication" to help with his problem, defendant's solicitor revealed.

McGothigan's solicitor said his client now understood that was entirely an inappropriate course of action.

"He informed his GP of his actions but it was made clear to him by his doctor that this was not to be condoned," the solicitor added.

McGothigan admitted two charges of possession of a Class B controlled drug, namely Cannabis Resin, on April 29, and was fined 150 on each. A disposal order was also made on the drugs.

The court was told that police conducted a search of 48b Quay Road and as a result, drugs were seized. Initially, a small amount of Cannabis was found, but in another search of a kitchen cabinet, a larger amount was discovered.

At first, McGothigan gave a different address, but when asked again he gave another address.

McGothigan was subsequently arrested for possession of Class B drugs and was said to have admitted two counts of posession of Class B drugs. When charged he made no reply.

A solicitor for McGothigan said his client suffered from epilepsy and was on heavy medication.

"Unfortunately, he did engage in consuming cannabis because of his condition, but now understands that this was entirely inappropriate. There was a misunderstanding.

He also advised his GP what he was doing, but his doctor stressed his actions were not to be condoned," the solicitor said.

He added: "My client was under a misapprehension, but is now seeking further medical assistance."