A FORMER mayor of Sligo who refused to allow gardaí enter a public house he runs, was ordered by a judge yesterday to pay €500 to charity.
Labour Party councillor, Jimmy McGarry, who contested the last general election in Sligo-North Leitrim, pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour on October 29th, 2007.
Garda Peter Cawley told Riverstown District Court in Co Sligo that when gardaí called to Mooney's pub in Maugheraboy, Sligo at 1.10am an "agitated" Mr McGarry had shouted at them and told them they had no business there.
He said gardaí had knocked several times and had received no answer.
When the door was eventually opened Mr McGarry of Twin Oaks, Oakfield, Sligo, "appeared slightly agitated" and shouted at gardaí.
Garda Cawley said that when he explained that they wanted to inspect the licensed premises Mr McGarry refused them entry and told them to go away "and not call back again tonight".
Gardaí left and returned to the pub at 1.40am, the court was told.
The accused, who confirmed that he was in charge of the premises, initially told them they could not enter but a number of gardaí did go into the pub.
Garda Cawley said that Mr McGarry was "a bit worked up" on both occasions and was "shouting and roaring".
Closing time on the night was 12.30am while "drinking up time" ended at 1am.
Judge Oliver McGuinness was told that the accused who had no previous convictions had since apologised. Solicitor Mark Mullaney said Mr McGarry was an elected representative who had served his community for 25 years.
He said that Mr McGarry, a member of both Sligo County Council and Borough Council was very embarrassed to find himself in court. He added that Mr McGarry had been a little bit agitated but had expressed regret and he urged Judge McGuinness not to "criminalise" him.
The judge ordered that €500 be paid into court for the hospice and on that basis he struck out the charge.