Accusedof multiplecharges

A South Armagh driver charged with eight counts of dangerous driving and one of failing to stop for Gardai in North Louth had the case against him adjourned at the district court last week.

P J McCann, (19), Corrasmoo Road, Culloville, is charged with dangerous driving on March 31 at Newtownbalregan, Rathmore, Phillipstown, Barronstown, Annaghvackey, Rassan, Sheelagh and Carrickastule and failing to stop at Newtownbalregan.

Solicitor Niall Breen asked Judge Flann Brennan to consider relaxing McCann’s bail conditions, which require him to sign on once a week at a Garda station, so his client could look for a job in the UK.

But the judge said McCann was ‘putting the cart before the horse’ without having proof of a job offer and said the application could be made again ahead of the case being listed again on November 2. ‘extremely remorseful’ for what was, she said, ‘a highly opportunistic act’. Ms Tiernan said they were driving past and saw the kegs and McDonagh ‘accepts that this is still wrong’.

She said the others involved were not charged but the defendant is ‘eager to right his wrongs’ and pay compensation. McDonagh has 14 previous convictions, Judge Flann Brennan was told, including for violent disorder and theft.

The case was adjourned to September 28 for a community service report, recommending 200 hours instead of ten months in prison. Judge Brennan said: ‘Full compensation will have to be paid on that day or you can forget about community service’. much to drink on this occasion and got in the way’. No-one else was charged, the solicitor said, ‘which makes it even more ridiculous’.

Judge Brennan imposed fines totalling €200.