Limerick motorist disqualified for drink-driving the 'morning after'

A YOUNG Limerick man was disqualified from driving for two years for a “morning after” drink driving offence.

Peter McCarthy, aged 26, of Ruan, Castleconnell pleaded guilty at Kilmallock Court to driving while over the limit.

Inspector Gearoid Thompson, prosecuting, said gardai attended a road traffic collision at Cappanuke, Murroe on October 3, 2021.

“Mr McCarthy was taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick. A blood sample was subsequently taken which showed 115mgs of alcohol per 100mls of blood. It was a single vehicle accident,” said Insp Thompson.

Judge Patricia Harney asked if the defendant was co-operative? Insp Thompson confirmed he was.

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Kenneth Kerins BL, who represented Mr McCarthy, said it was a “morning after” offence.

“It happened in the afternoon - he didn’t immediately consume alcohol before getting into the car. He attended the garda station and made a statement as did his partner. It is not a high reading. He has pleaded guilty,” said Mr Kerins who added his client works in construction and has plans to go to Australia.

“It has an effect on that. He has no previous convictions,” said Mr Kerins.

Judge Harney convicted Mr McCarthy of drink driving, put him off the road for two years and imposed a €500 fine.

Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.