Longford District Court: Suspended sentence for drink driver

A defendant who undertook a pro-social driving course avoided a custodial sentence for a drink driving offence at Longford District Court.

Tony Clarke (34) of 16 Sliabh Cairbhe, Drumlish was before Judge Bernadette Owens facing a charge that on January 8, 2023 at Cahanagh, Longford he drove a MPV with a quantity of alcohol in his system in excess of 9mg per 100 ml of breath.

The court heard that Mr Clarke had two previous drink driving convictions. Solicitor Brid Mimnagh informed the court her client has completely pro-social driving course

The pro-social driving course seeks to re-educate and rehabilitate participants by challenging established thinking patterns and attitudes, to bring about an awareness and understanding of participant's driving behaviour.

Longford District Court heard that Mr Clarke gave a reading of 105mg per 100ml when tested, the level of intoxication necessitated a minimum of a three year disqualification.

In concluding matters Judge Owens noted the references submitted, and testimony from Mr Clarke's employer.

The judge registered a conviction and imposed a three month prison sentence, suspending it for 12 months on the defendant's own bond of €250.

A fine of €400 and four year disqualification was also handed down to Mr Clarke.