Driver ‘residing in car’ with no licence caught twice without insurance in Longford
The defendant of Cloonncullan, Strokestown, county Roscommon pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to two counts of driving without insurance.
A motorist who had no licence and who was caught driving without insurance for the second time in less than seven months in Longford town has been disqualified from driving for four years.
Fernandes Shafan of Cloonncullan, Strokestown, county Roscommon pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to two counts of driving without insurance.
Sergeant Mark Mahon, for the State, said Garda Rhona Bohan was on patrol on the Ballinalee Road, Longford town, a a public place on July 31, 2025 the vehicle was being used and it was stopped by the guard.
"She demanded his car insurance documents and driving licence, but none of those were produced."
Sgt Mahon said Garda Joe Finan was on patrol on February 19 last at Richmond Street, Townparks, Longford when he observed the motorist driving a vehicle and he stopped him and he spoke to him.
Garda Finan made a lawful demand for the defendant to produce his insurance cert and his driving licence within 10 days at a station of his choice, but Shafan failed to do so.
Solicitor John Anderson, defending, stated his client's partner was in court supporting him and he is in a precarious situation.
"I have explained him that you are more than likely going to have to impose a disqualification as there are now two matters before the court.
"This man is using his car to reside in at the moment because he is unfortunately homeless.
"He is asking if you could give him the maximum period of six months of a postponement on that disqualification until April 30th next to allow him to get his house in order effectively.
"The loss of his licence is going to be immense," Mr Anderson added.
However, Judge Owens retorted 'What licence?'
She added, “He had two separate offence dates that were some time apart. This man is not taking responsibility at all.”
Mr Anderson said his client has fallen on hard times in terms of he does not have accommodation.
"I know what you are saying judge but he has entered a plea at the earliest opportunity," he added.
Sgt Mahon said he believed the defendant was in 'huge difficulty' as he admitted in court that he had no licence.
"I could not consent to anything," he added.
Judge Owens decided to impose a €550 fine with 11 months to pay and she disqualified Shafan from driving for four years.