Teen driver didn’t have insurance or a licence

THE father of a 17-year-old boy has been urged to keep a “circle of support” around his son after he pleaded guilty to driving without a driver’s licence or insurance.

The youth admitted to the offences at Connolly Street on 2nd November 2016.

His solicitor, Mr Eddie Henry, told the court that he was only 16 years old at the time.

“He tells me that the vehicle was bought by the then driver, a 20-year-old. It broke down and my client got into the driver’s seat while the owner pushed the car,” Mr Henry told Judge Kevin Kilrane.

He said the youth had previously been involved in a Juvenile Liaison Scheme.

Judge Kilrane adjourned the case to next June 28th and said if he was in no further trouble he wouldn’t convict him.

The boy’s father said he had just left school and was looking for an apprenticeship.

Judge Kilrane said “A young man of 17 needs to be occupied with work and sport” and “this type of thing doesn’t help him get work.”

“If he’s not in trouble in the meantime I’ ll strike it out. That’s a generous decision,” he told the boy’s father.

The court heard the boy’s father is not working and his mother was deceased.

“I’ve four kids at home with me,” said his father.

Judge Kilrane said it was to his credit that he was present in court to support his son.

“It’s vital he’s kept in a circle of support because if not, there’ ll be another circle of support and it won’t be good,” he told the man.

He said the youth needed help to find a job and had to obey the rules at home as well.