Cork driver is banned by court for ten years

A 33-year-old woman caught driving without insurance for the fifth time showed scant regard for the law, a district judge said, as she banned her from driving for 10 years.

Hayley O’Connor, of Bride Valley View, Upper Fair Hill, Cork, was stopped by Garda Eoghan O’Mahony at lunchtime on November 11, 2025 at Fairfield Rd, Farranree, Cork.

Sergeant John Dineen said that when the motorist was stopped, she admitted that she did not have insurance or a driving licence, but that she had to collect an elderly relative.

Frank Buttimer, solicitor for the defendant, outlined the circumstances of the care of this relative and matters on the day that caused O’Connor to drive the car.

Sgt Dineen said Hayley O’Connor was convicted four times previously for driving without insurance.

Judge Catherine Ryan said: 

“It is an appalling record.”

Mr Buttimer agreed with this description and he outlined the mitigating circumstances.

However, Judge Ryan said that while O’Connor may have been motivated by the desire to assist someone else, she could not drive without insurance.

Judge Ryan imposed a four-month suspended prison sentence, a 10-year driving disqualification, and fines totalling €1,250.

The judge concluded the case with a warning for the defendant: “You are not able to drive, you are going to have to rely on other people or public transport. The court is giving you some leeway, because of your personal circumstances.”

The defendant was given six months in which to pay a €500 fine for having no licence and a €750 fine for driving without insurance.