North Longford man was caught twice over the legal drink driving limit in 10-week period

A judge has directed that a probation report be compiled on a man who was caught drink driving and she indicated he may be facing 140 hours of community service.

Ciaran McCormack (56) of Cloonaghmore, Abbeylara, county Longford pleaded guilty to drink driving and driving without insurance on two separate dates in February and May last.

Sergeant Enda Daly, court presenter, said while Gardaí were on patrol at Cloonaghmore, Abbeylara on February 25 last when they observed a vehicle exceeding the speed limit and travelling over a continuous white line.

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Sgt Daly said Gardaí pursued the vehicle and stopped it a short time later.

"The defendant in the vehicle was stopped on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and a breath test was performed on the roadside, which the defendant failed and he was subsequently arrested."

Sergeant Daly stated a test was carried out at Longford Garda Station which gave a reading of 28mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath.

The legal limit is 22mg.

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Sergeant Daly said Sergeant Garry Newton stopped the defendant driving a vehicle at a checkpoint at Abbeylara on May 11 last.

"When spoken to there was a smell of liquor from his breath, his eyes were glassy and he looked very fatigued.

A breath test was conducted at Longford Garda Station which gave a reading of 21mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath.
"He was a specified driver and he was subsequently over the limit," Sgt Daly explained.

The Gardaí made a lawful demand to the defendant for documents, however, none were produced.
Mr McCormack had 11 previous convictions.

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client, a separated father of one, is a plasterer who is currently unemployed but he has a very good work history and strong family support.

“Ciaran naively thought he could continue sailing close to the wind."

Judge Bernadette Owens directed a probation report be compiled to include a Pro Social driving course and a community service assessment.

She indicated, if Mr McCormack is deemed suitable, she would be inclined to impose 140 hours in lieu of five months imprisonment.

Judge Owens, who will finalise sentencing during the next hearing, then adjourned the case until November 13 next.