County Longford man spotted by Gardai with car lights on after night drinking is banned

A county Longford man, who was found at the steering wheel while over the limit, has been convicted and disqualified for one year.

Thomas Quinn (40) of Aughadowry, Ballinamuck pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to being drunk in charge of a vehicle at Rathmore, Aughnacliffe on October 8, 2025.

Sergeant Enda Daly, for the State, said Gardai observed a vehicle at about 1.15am with its lights on at Rathmore, Aughnacliffe.
"On further inspection they found the engine running and a male asleep at the steering wheel."

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Sgt Daly said Gardai made a lawful demand for the defendant they now know to be Thomas Quinn and he subsequently did so.
"There was a smell of alcohol from the driver and his eyes were glassy."

The court heard Garda Yvonne Glacken formed the opinion the driver was intoxicated and she made a lawful demand for him to conduct a roadside breath test, which he failed.

Mr Quinn was subsequently arrested and brought to Longford Garda Station.

Sgt Daly breath sample taken which gave a result of 40mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath.

The legal limit is 22mg.

"He was deemed unsuitable for a fixed charge penalty notice as he received one in the last three years."

Mr Quinn had no previous convictions.

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Solicitor Frank Gearty, defending, said in better health his client worked as an assistant in a shop in Longford town.

"He is presently unemployed but he is helping at home with the farming, the farm is owned by his father and brother."

Mr Gearty said Mr Quinn has had to deal with a depression issue.

"His modus operandi would be to call to the local pub and a small number of drinks, that would be the nature of it.

"He has a habit of sitting into the car and listening to some nice country music and just letting the hours pass by.

"He has done the State a service by not going into this, he acknowledges that he might have had an intention to drive home, his instructions have been honest and clear."

Judge Bernadette Owens decided to convict Mr Quinn and she imposed a €300 fine with nine months to pay and the 12-month driving ban.