A 19-year-old mechanic from Sligo has been disqualified from driving for three years after he was caught drink driving in the early hours of the morning in Carrick-on-Shannon.
Conor Mullen, of Kingsfort, Ballymote, Co Sligo, appeared before Judge Michael Connellan at Carrick-on-Shannon District Court on June 29, where he pleaded guilty to the offence.
The court heard that on February 3, 2025, at approximately 3.40am, Gardaí observed a black Volkswagen Passat driving erratically near Townparks, Carrick-on-Shannon. The car was stopped, and Gardaí detected a strong smell of alcohol from the driver’s breath. He was arrested and taken to Carrick-on-Shannon Garda Station, where he provided a breath sample of 68 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath—more than three times the legal limit.
Mullen, who was accompanied to court by his father, works full-time as a mechanic and takes home around €450 per week. His solicitor, Colm Conway, told the court that the young man had accepted responsibility and had no excuses.
“He tells me his plan is to emigrate, Judge,” Mr Conway said. “He just wants to take the disqualification and go.”
Judge Connellan criticised Mullen’s actions, noting the seriousness of driving under the influence—particularly for someone in his profession.
“You’re a mechanic. You need your car. All the more reason not to drive drunk,” the judge said.
He also expressed disappointment that Mullen’s father had to escort him to court: “It’s embarrassing that your father has to accompany you in here today.”
Judge Connellan imposed a three-year disqualification from driving and fined Mullen €400, giving him six months to pay.
When asked about his driver’s licence, Mullen told the court he had lost it and had applied for a replacement. The court instructed that the licence number be confirmed for official record purposes.
Before concluding, Judge Connellan reminded Mullen that the disqualification takes effect immediately and warned him that failure to comply would lead to further consequences.
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