Fine for Limerick motorist who refused to give breath specimen to gardai

A NEWCASTLE West man who refused to provide a breath specimen was fined €500 at the local court.

Dermot Quilligan, aged 43, of Assumpta Park, Newcastle West was stopped by gardai at St Mary’s Road in the town on December 6, 2021.

Inspector Gearoid Thompson, prosecuting, said at 12.30am on the date in question garda attention was drawn to a car being driven by the defendant.

“An opinion was formed. He refused to provide a breath specimen. He was somewhat obstreperous. He declined to provide a specimen,” said Insp Thompson.

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The prosecuting garda inspector said with regard to previous convictions Mr Quilligan “does have some concerning criminal matters but nothing in relation to this”.

Charlie O’Connor, solicitor for Mr Quilligan, said his client is a married man with a young family.

“He has apologised and is apologising for his conduct on the night. He made an error. Due to an injury he is not working,” said Mr O’Connor.

Judge Carol Anne Coolican fined Mr Quilligan €500.