Driver (19) jailed for five months for no insurance

AN award-winning young farmer, ‘fanatical’ about cars since he was a baby, is to appeal a five months sentence imposed on him for driving without insurance.

James Kierans (19), 40 Laurence Drive, Drogheda, was also disqualified from driving for 10 years.

He was stopped by gardaí at Laurence Drive on 11 August, 2016, and the district court heard he has two previous no insurance convictions.

Solicitor Eleanor Kelly said her client is an award-winning farmer on the Ballymakenny Road. When working he earns €300 per-week.

He is from a good family, and his mother is distraught at the fact he is in court.

She says that since he was a baby, her son is fanatical about cars.

The solicitor added Kierans hasn’t driven since this incident, and asked he be given one final chance.

However, prosecuting garda, Declan Byrne, said the defendant continues to drive.

‘I’m aware he has been stopped on numerous occasions, and there are pending charges.’

Judge Coughlan made an order as outlined, setting bail in the event of an appeal at €600.

He subsequently agreed to reduce it to €400.