Monasterevin haulier to pay €1,300 to assault victim

AN employer who was so angry with a member of staff “he was foaming at the mouth”, will avoid a conviction for assault if he can provide proof of €1,300 compensation in a fortnight.

Up before Judge Desmond Zaidan in Athy District Court for sentence was William Heffernan (61) of Cloney Bridge, Monasterevin.

Mr Heffernan had previously pleaded guilty to the common assault of a member of staff at Heffernan Haulage in the town on 15 December 2022.

In his evidence, the injured party said: “He got annoyed I came back to the yard without finishing what I was supposed to. He was like a man possessed, foaming at the mouth.”

Barrister Patsy Glennon told the court that his client had no previous convictions, has been in business for 40 years, and employs seven people.

“He will pay €780 in damages, and is willing to make a €500 gesture,” said Mr Glennon.

He also told the court that his client had recently undergone the installation of four cardiac stents.

“I understand the stress of four stents, but you overreacted,” said the judge to Mr Heffernan.

“He has apologized and it’s been accepted,” revealed Mr Glennon.

“Now, the €500 is a gesture, and you don’t have to take it, I can give it to Cuan Mhuire,” offered the judge.

“Round it up to €1,300. Can we have two weeks?” asked Mr Glennon, and the judge agreed.

“I will apply Section 1.1 (of the Probation Act) if the sergeant brings in the receipt at the next court date here (25 February),” said the judge.