Man crashed into mini steam engine at St Patrick’s Day Parade in Laois

A man who crashed into a mini steam engine during a St Patrick’s Day Parade in Laois was unable to attend court during the cold weather. 

Raymond Barrett (60) of Luggacurran was convicted of two counts of dangerous driving, having no tax or driving licence and engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour at Main Street,  Stradbally on March 17, 2024 at a previous court sitting. 

He had been due to appear before Portlaoise District Court for sentencing on January 9. However, his solicitor Seamus Taaffe said the defendant lived “in a rural isolated area” and was unable to get a taxi due to the freezing conditions. 

Judge Andrew Cody adjourned the matter to Tuesday, January 14 for sentencing.