A 61-year-old farmer stopped by police for driving below 20mph was found to be over the legal alcohol limit.
In the case heard at Fermanagh Magistrates Court, Cathal McQuaid of Cavanamara Close, Trillick was disqualified from driving for 12 months and fined £250.
The prosecutor outlined that on November 2, 2014 at approximately 11.15pm police were on mobile patrol on the Enniskillen Road in Irvinestown when they observed a Mitsubishi Warrior pick-up driving very slow ahead of them at a speed below 20mph.
Officers noted the driving conditions were good and followed the vehicle onto Mill Street, Irvinestown.
The vehicle pulled in a short distance later and police spoke to the defendant, informing him his rear light was defective.
They noted his eyes were glazed. Police asked McQuaid why he was driving so slow and he told them he was unaware he was going at a slow speed.
Officers then asked McQuaid had he been drinking, to which he replied: “I had one drink”.
Police administered a preliminary breath test, which was failed and arrested the defendant.
At the police station an evidential breath reading of 63mg was obtained, 28mg over the legal limit.
Defence solicitor Paul McGinn noted the defendant’s unblemished driving record of 43 years and said the incident had brought great shame and embarrassment.
District judge Nigel Broderick gave the defendant credit for his early plea and his clear record, but stated there must be a disqualification.
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