Motorist who broke a temporary red light fined by Thurles District Court

A woman who ran a temporary red light while driving unaccompanied on a learners permit has been fined by Thurles District Court.

Lisa Jane McInerney (33) of 2 Cardens Court, Templemore, was convicted of driving unaccompanied and for driving without a licence by Thurles District Court.

Ms McInerney was not in court but was represented by her solicitor.

The arresting garda gave evidence that he observed Ms McInerney fail to stop at a temporary red light on the Roscrea road Borrisbeg, Templemore, while he was conducting a checkpoint on November 1, 2021.

When he stopped her, Ms McInerney couldn’t produce her licence.

Ms McInerney later produce a learner permit.

Paddy Cadell, solicitor for the defendant, asked if there had been a notice issued for the lights.

The garda said Tipperary County Council had confirmed there had not been a notice as the road was not closed.

However, he said the lights were essential and there to protect workers, who were repairing the road.

Mr Caddell questioned whether the light being temporary, was covered under the regulations.

Judge Elizbeth MacGrath said she believed the section covered temporary traffic lights but said it was “academic.”

Taking the red light into consideration, Judge McGrath fined Ms McInerney €160 for driving without a licence. She fined her €200 for driving unaccompanied.

The charge failing stop at a red light was taken into consideration.