Insp John Deasy said that Helen Heaphy, of 59 Kerry-hall Rd, Fairhill, Cork, was arrested by Garda Danielle Hegarty on Wednesday, July 9, last year.

Heaphy was outside Rock Bingo at Deanrock industrial estate, Togher, when she was apprehended. Garda Hegarty searched her and found cocaine with a street value of €350.

The defendant pleaded guilty at Cork District Court yesterday to charges of possession of cocaine and having the drug for sale or supply.

Judge Leo Malone asked: “What was she doing with cocaine at a bingo hall?”

Solicitor Frank Buttimer, said there was no question of her being in the bingo hall with the cocaine.

“The event happened outside the bingo hall. At the request of someone, she carried it to give to her. It was a stupid act which placed her [the defendant] at risk of imprisonment.

“She is 50 years old, she is separated and is a mother and grandmother with responsibilities in relation to her family.

“She co-operated fully with the Garda enquiry during a lengthy interview and indicated at the earliest stage her intention to plead guilty.”

Insp Deasy said the defendant had previous convictions for possessing a drug and obstructing a drugs search but not for having drugs for sale or supply.

Judge Malone took the possession charge into consideration and fined her €750 for having the cocaine for sale or supply.

Mr Buttimer said the defendant had permission to return to playing bingo. It had previously been a condition of bail she would stay away from the premises.

Meanwhile, insofar as it was stated in court that the defendant was carrying the cocaine with the intention of handing it to another person, there was no indication from either side where or when it was anticipated the event was to take place.