Student avoids conviction for possession of cannabis

A university student who admitted being in possession of over €3,000 worth of cannabis has avoided a conviction after a judge applied the Probation Act.

Marek Laska, who is due to start studying for a masters in science to enable him get a job in the hi-tech industry, has been ordered to attend Hope and give assistance to other drug users as part of his punishment.

Laska, aged 27, formerly of Main St in Rush and now of Ashtown on the Navan Road, had previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis for sale or supply and a digital weighing scales at a house on Main Street in Rush on October 6, 2011.

Garda Gerrit Durnin said the defendant co-operated and took responsibility for the drugs.

Defence solicitor Coleman Ryan said the father of one, who has completed a bachelor of science degree at University College Dublin, said he had the scales and scoop to split up the drugs fairly between him and two friends, who had clubbed together to buy the drugs.

Judge Dempsey applied the Probation Act after hearing that Laska has a bright future in the hi-tech industry and that a conviction would have an impact on travel and work.