Limerick driver has ban put back until after wedding

A DRINK-driver who was more than three times the limit sought to have the starting date of his ban postponed as he is getting married.

Brian Fitzgerald, aged 38, of Rosstemple, Banogue pleaded guilty, at Newcastle West Court, to drink driving at Rylanes, Ballingarry on November 21, 2021.

Inspector Gearoid Thompson said gardai on patrol encountered the vehicle which was being driven by the defendant.

“Gardai formed an opinion (that he had consumed an intoxicant). He was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving,” said Insp Thompson.

Mr Fitzgerald later gave a reading of 75mgs of alcohol per 100mls of breath.

St John's Hospital redevelopment would have 'powerfully positive' impact on Limerick

“He is a fully licenced driver and co-operated fully with gardai. He was very open and honest,” said Insp Thompson, who added that Mr Fitzgerald has a previous conviction for drink-driving dating back to 2011.

Michael O’Donnell, solicitor, said the offence was “well outside the four year period (from the first conviction),”.

“He co-operated fully with gardai,” said Mr O’Donnell, who asked for the disqualification to be postponed for the maximum period as his client is getting married. 

A three year driving disqualification is to commence on July 17. Judge Carol Anne Coolican also fined Mr Fitzgerald €500.