North Longford motorist was four times over drink driving limit and caught drug driving

A North Longford man, who was four times over the drink driving limit and also tested positive for drug driving has been directed to engage with the probation services.

Ciaran O'Reilly (23) of 9 Tromra Road, Granard pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the offences.

Sergeant Mark Mahon said Gardaí were on patrol at Rathcronan, Granard on March 18, 2022 when they observed the defendant driving at speed towards Granard.

READ NEXT: Council-owned site identified for Kenagh playground in Co Longford

They stopped the defendant and became suspicious he was intoxicated and he was arrested where he provided a blood sample that came back positive for drugs.

Gardaí also observed the defendant make a quick left turn on October 31, 2022 and he was arrested.

A sample of his blood was obtained with a reading of 203mg per 100ml of blood.

The legal limit is 50mg.

Sgt Mahon said Gardaí stopped the motorist on February 8, 2023 at Townspark, Longford at 2pm and there was no tax or NCT cert displayed.

Mr O'Reilly failed a roadside test and blood test at the garda station was positive for drugs.

READ NEXT: Two doctors & secretary face trial for theft and deception in Longford court

The defendant was stopped for speeding and arrested on February 22, 2023 in Ballinalee on suspicion of drug driving and a subsequent blood test came back positive for drugs.

Mr O'Reilly had nine previous convictions.

Solicitor Bríd Mimnagh said her client had a difficulty with cannabis and he works full time.

"He previously started a tiling business and he is a man who has worked."

Judge Bernadette Owens noted his previous convictions and she requested a probation report so she could learn more about him and she directed the defendant to complete a Pro Social driving course.

The court heard the defendant is facing a three year disqualification and the case was then adjourned until November 4.