Banned driver took car to wake

A CARRICKMORE man who was disqualified from driving, drove to Galbally to help steward traffic at a wake in August.

Declan Martin Harte (33) of Aghagogan received a three month jail term, suspended for 18 months when he appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court. He was also disqualified from driving for two years and fined £500. He was convicted of driving while disqualified and without insurance.

He was detected driving a Ford Focus on Gortnagola Road, Galbally on August 21. Police seized the car at the scene. The driving disqualification was due to expire next month.

Defence solicitor Michael Fahy said the defendant accepted culpability at the roadside.

He explained there was a family bereavement nearby and Harte had gone home but in the early hours of the morning got a call to help with traffic management.

Mr Fahy added, “He understands the invidious position he is in. He has run out of excuses and has a record of relevance.” Addressing the defendant, District Judge Michael Ranaghan said, “You know full well when you are disqualified you shouldn’t be behind the wheel at all. It is also your forth conviction for driving without insurance. You were in court before. The fines have been creeping up incrementally the lass number of years. You can be jailed for no insurance, it’s up to you.”