Cannabis give accused pain relief, judge told

A man with serious health difficulties had cannabis in his home. His solicitor yesterday said the drug provided relief from pain.

John Henry, aged 59, of Pic Du Jer Park, Ballinlough, Cork, pleaded guilty to a charge of possession of cannabis for his own use on July 30 last year. Inspector Adrian Gamble said Henry had four previous similar convictions, and two others for having the drug for the purpose of sale or supply.

Solicitor Frank Buttimer said: “This man has chronic medical problems. He has a breathing disorder and heart difficulties.