Bombonel Rostas, 22, with an address at Laboure Cross, Douglas Road, Cork, was caught causing an obstruction by begging at 5.30pm on Saturday afternoon, November 26, at Patrick Street, Cork.

Inspector Ronan Kennelly said the accused had a cup in front of him. He had gathered €131 by begging that day. This money was seized.

As well as jailing the accused for 21 days, Judge Leo Malone ordered that the money be transferred to the ISPCA. Insp Kennelly had asked for the money to be directed to a reputable charity. He said Rostas had seven previous convictions and recently got a 21-day suspended sentence for causing an obstruction by begging.

Dennis Healy, solicitor, who was appointed to represent the accused on free legal aid, said people were quite generous at this time of year and the accused was begging to try to make things better for his young family.

Judge Malone said: “He got a chance before. He got a suspended sentence. He does not care about the laws in this country.” Imposing the 21-day jail term the judge fixed bail pending appeal at the defendant’s own bond of €300 and an independent surety of €400.

Mr Healy said the accused had been looking for work but failed to get a job.