A Co Armagh man who was serving a five-year driving ban for causing the death of a young mother has been caught drink driving.
Ciaran McBride, of Listrakelt Road, Derrynoose pleaded guilty to driving whilst disqualified, using a vehicle without insurance and driving with excess alcohol at Armagh Magistrates’ on Tuesday.
The offences occurred on the Derryoose Road in Keady on February 11.
The 33-year-old’s solicitor told the court the defendant’s “mental health deteriorated” following the incident in 2016 and that he had become “dependant on alcohol”.
Upon reading the pre-sentence report, prepared by probation, District Judge Brian Archer stated: “This man was involved in a very serious road traffic incident in the Republic of Ireland that resulted in a fatality.
“Three years later he is drink driving with a reading of 87mg of alcohol in breath.”
McBride caused the death of Tipperary woman Nicola Kenny (26) on September 5, 2016, just a day after the birth of her only child Lily Rose.
As well as the five year ban, the Armagh man was given an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay €10,000 in compensation to the Ms Kenny’s parents.
Speaking in court today, defence solicitor Chris Rafferty said: “In relation to the offence in the Republic of Ireland, Mr McBride instructs that since then, his mental health has deteriorated, and he has become dependant on alcohol.”
Judge Archer retorted: “That’s even more of a reason for him not to be behind the wheel of a vehicle.”
Mr Rafferty stated: “This is a detailed report and probation have recommended an enhanced combination order.
“This is a man with an appalling record regarding the offences in the south and he is on his last legs.”
Judge Archer told McBride: “I could very well have sent you to prison for driving whilst disqualified given your record.”
The defendant was sentenced to a combination order consisting of 75 hours of community service and two years on probation.
In addition, McBride was handed a 30-month driving disqualification.
Judge Archer warned the defendant: “If you commit any further motoring offences you will be going to prison”.
