Judge in Waterford refuses interpreter for man who failed to appear
The judge said he was unwilling to certify for an interpreter for a man who failed to appear in court. Stock Image.
A judge has refused to grant an interpreter for a defendant who failed to appear before Waterford District Court.
Judge John Cheatle said the cost of interpreters retained but not needed on the day was around €20,000, and he was unwilling to certify another for a defendant nobody was sure would appear.
He told the man’s solicitor that it was his responsibility to notify the court office if he knew his client would not appear.
The solicitor said he had notified his client that he was required to be in court.
Judge Cheatle said that if the man wanted an interpreter and he was going to appear, the solicitor could call the office ahead of the next appearance.
