Kilkenny Court: Jail term for man who ‘obviously shouldn’t have been driving’

A man who “obviously shouldn’t have been driving” has been given a four month prison sentence for driving without insurance.

Eoin O’Rourke, 7 Shandon Court, Upper Yellow Road, Waterford, was also convicted of speeding at Ballygeardra on the M9, on June 3, 2021.

Garda Fergal Ging observed a vehicle being driven at 165kph on the motorway ay Ballygeardra, Knocktopher, on June 3, 2021, at 12.25pm.

Mr O’Rourke failed to produce his driving documents and fixed charge penalties were not paid.

Mr O’Rourke had seven previous convictions for driving without insurance.

Solicitor Chris Hogan said his client “obviously shouldn’t have been driving.”

His 14 year-old daughter had a dentist appointment and he ‘felt under significant pressure’ so he borrowed a car.

Mr Hogan said his client appreciated he would be given a lengthy disqualification and was willing to do Community Service.

“For god’s sake, not only was he driving for the seventh time with no insurance, he was speeding as well. Not only was he putting himself at risk but his daughter was at risk and other road users,” Judge Geraldine Carthy said.

“He is facing custody and it’s his own fault.”

The judge said she could not ignore the defendant’s seven previous convictions for no insurance and said Mr O’Rourke had not taken opportunities given to him in the past.

For driving without insurance Mr O’Rourke was sentenced to four months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for ten years.

An additional fine of €600 was imposed on a conviction for speeding.

Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.

Legal aid was granted.