A MOTORIST has been disqualified from driving for four years after a court heard his car ended up on its roof following a single vehicle collision near Clonakilty.

Stuart McNamara (37) of West Green, Dunmanway pleaded guilty at Clonakilty District Court to driving while intoxicated and careless driving.

Sgt Tom Mulcahy told the court that at 9.55pm on August 31st 2024 Gda Collins responded to call in relation to a single vehicle road traffic collision at Tulligee, Clonakilty.

‘On arrival at the scene an ambulance was already there and a paramedic was treating a male for his injuries. There was also significant damages to the car which was on its roof and there was no other car involved,’ said Sgt Mulcahy.‘There were bad bends at this section of the road and Mr McNamara crossed the road and clipped the ditch.’

While being treated at the scene by a paramedic Mr McNamara failed a breath sample.‘He was taken to CUH by ambulance but a blood sample couldn’t be taken from him at the time. Based on the Gda Collins’ evidence it was believed he was drinking at the time. He did engage with Gda Collins and made a statement.’

The court heard that Mr McNamara has 29 previous convictions including two for driving while intoxicated and one for dangerous driving.

Defence solicitor Myra Dinneen said her client, who is single and effectively homeless, has grappled with alcohol addiction and came out of treatment in November last. She said he has been attending AA meetings in both Dunmanway and Skibbbereen and engaging with an aftercare service while off alcohol.

‘He’s getting himself together and his sister is of tremendous support. He knows he’ll be off the road for a significant time.

Judge Joanne Carroll said he clearly has significant alcohol problems but is dealing with his addiction.

She disqualified him from driving for four years and admitted him to a probation bond for nine months and directed that he must co-operate with the probation service, attend all appointments and attend for alcohol treatment addictions and attend for counselling if advised.

The judge also convicted and fined him €150 on the careless driving charge giving him five months to pay the fine.