160kph driver was listening to music and oblivious to flashing lights and sirens in Laois

A speeding van driver didn’t notice a garda car with lights flashing and sirens following him at 160kph in the overtaking lane of the M7 Motorway for over three kilometres. 

Frankie John Barr (26) of 58 Finn Eber Fort, Finglas, Dublin was accused of driving without reasonable consideration at M7 Ballymacken, Portlaoise on September 17, 2024. 

Garda Stephen O’Hanlon said the defendant was driving a black Peugeot Partner van on the date in question. 

“I followed this vehicle for over three kilometres,” he told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

He said the driver appeared “oblivious” even though he had lights and sirens on while pursuing the van. 

Judge Andrew Cody asked Garda O’Hanlon at what speed he was following the van. 

“160km per hour in lane two for three kilometres and I had the lights and sirens on,” said Garda O’Hanlon. 

He said the defendant, who failed to see the patrol car following him informed him “that he was listening to music” and hadn’t noticed. 

Judge Andrew Cody convicted the man and disqualified him from driving for six months. He also imposed a €500 fine and gave him six months to pay.