Jail for drug-dealing fireman

An airport fireman who began dealing drugs to pay off his business debts has been jailed for four years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court today.

Brendan O'Herlihy had taken out a sub-prime second mortgage on his home to pay off business loans but was forced to deal drugs when he could not work because of injury.

The 40-year-old was found with €124,500 worth of various drugs in his home.

He pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine, cannabis resin and cannabis herb for sale or supply at his home at Pinegrove Park, Swords, Dublin on October 1, 2009.

Judge Martin Nolan said a prison term was unavoidable but took into account O'Herlihy's previous good character and lack of previous convictions.