Tipperary man with 25 disqualifications caught driving given jail sentence

A jail sentence was handed down to a man who was driving in Laois despite having 25 previous disqualifications.

Declan Ryan, 31, of Patrickswell, Carrigtogher, Nenagh, Co Tipperary admitted giving a false name and address when stopped by gardai on the M7 at Clonboyne on March 7 last. He also admitted driving without a licence or insurance. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the man used his young brother’s name when stopped on the motorway at 5pm on March 7. He said the man is disqualified and has 54 previous convictions, including 25 previous disqualifications. 

“The lift isn’t going to the top storey, is it,” said Judge Andrew Cody. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client had rehabilitated from alcoholism. He said the man had been visiting his ill mother in Newbridge on the day in question. His partner had been driving but she wasn’t well and he took over, Mr Fitzgerald said. 

“After 25 disqualifications and several suspended sentences the message is not getting through,” said Judge Cody. 

He said he had no option but to jail the defendant. He imposed a six month sentence, fined him €300 and disqualified him from driving and disqualified him from driving for 20 years.