Longford driver who was more than four times above the legal limit given lengthy road ban

The defendant pleaded guilty to the offence at Farneyhoogan, Longford on October 27, 2025

A drink driver, who was caught behind the wheel more than four times above the legal limit, has been convicted and given a three year road ban.

Fintan Flanagan (57) of Athlone Road, Longford pleaded guilty at the local district court to the offence at Farneyhoogan, Longford on October 27, 2025.

Sergeant Mark Mahon, for the State, said Gardaí were on patrol and they observed the defendant driving at around 10.30pm on the day in question and they stopped him.

The court heard Mr Flanagan recorded a breath alcohol concentration of 99 micrograms per 100 milliliters, which carries a mandatory disqualification of three years.

The legal limit is 22 micrograms. The defendant had no previous convictions.

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client had never been in trouble previously and was of otherwise excellent character.

The court heard Mr Flanagan was in a 'melancholic' mood after a development and he visited the pub with no intention of driving, but the taxi rank was empty and ‘regretfully he drove’.

“This is how a man who was otherwise of excellent character, never in any bother in his life, ended up in this situation.

“He is extremely apologetic, he has been involved in the community in the past and he has had a very long record of constant work since 1986 in a local, very substantial business,” Mr Gearty added.

Judge Bernadette Owens noted the plea and the fact Mr Flanagan had no previous convictions and she she imposed the mandatory driving ban and a €450 fine with four months to pay.