A DISTRICT court judge told a Terelton man to deal with his alcohol issues.

Judge Joanne Carroll made the comment dealing with the case of Jamie McCarthy (28) at Macroom District Court.

Mr McCarthy, of Knockane, Terelton, Macroom, pleaded guilty to being drunk in public and using or engaging in any threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour in Macroom last Christmas.

Sgt Trish O’Sullivan told the court that on December 27th last gardaí on patrol encountered the accused on the street who appeared very drunk and was unsteady on his feet.

‘They formed the opinion that he was a danger to himself and others. He appeared very aggressive and was approaching other members of the public trying to start a fight with them,’ said Sgt O’Sullivan.

Defence solicitor Jack Purcell said the reason his client was getting into trouble on the night was because he was defending his younger brother.

He said Mr McCarthy works full-time as a transport manager, is clear of drugs a year but may have issues with alcohol and that he isn’t long off it.

Judge Carroll sentenced him to three months in prison on the more serious public order charge but suspended it for 12 months.

She directed him to enter a probation bond attaching conditions including that he co-operate with the probation services; and attend for addiction treatment as advised.

‘If you have a drink issue you need to deal with it,’ advised Judge Carroll.