Convicted drug dealer John Gilligan has appeared in court charged with having a mobile phone and SIM card in Portlaoise prison.
Inspector Tom Mooney told Portlaoise District Court the phone and SIM card were found during a search of Gilligan’s cell on July 30th, 2008.
Gilligan (57), who was representing himself in court having declined legal aid, asked for a copy of the act he was charged under. He also asked for copies of interview tapes and all statements taken in the case.
Judge Gerard Haughton remanded Gilligan in custody for 14 days to enable the discovery of documents and interview tapes.
Gilligan was returned to the prison under heavy security.
If convicted of possessing a mobile phone under Section 36 of the Prisons Act 2007, Gilligan could face a five year prison sentence. He is due for release in 2013.