Woman pleads guilty to seriously injuring Limerick-based garda inspector in collision

A FEMALE motorist has pleaded guilty to two charges in relation to a road traffic collision that left a senior Limerick garda - Inspector Niall Flood - with life-changing injuries.

Niamh McDonnell, aged 29, of Gortskagh, Castlemahon was arraigned before Limerick Circuit Court this Monday.

Ms McDonell pleaded guilty when two charges - dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and drink driving - were put to her by the court registrar. The offences occurred at Clonmore, Dromcollogher on June 30, 2022.

Brian McInerney SC, who represented Ms McDonnell during the short procedural matter, said it would take a little bit of time at sentencing. The barrister also asked for a report from the Probation Service on his client.

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Prosecuting barrister, Lily Buckley, instructed by Kerry State Solicitor Diane Reidy with the assistance of Limerick city State Solicitor Padraig Mawe, said the case involves life-changing injuries.

“It is going to take some time to put together medical evidence. It is ongoing and he is under a multidisciplinary team,” said Ms Buckley, who asked for a court date for mention in July. Ms Buckley said they will indicate then if the State is in a position to take a sentencing date before the end of term.

Judge Tom O’Donnell adjourned the case to July 3, for mention. Ms McDonnell was remanded on continuing bail.