‘I have no choice,’ says judge
The view from Dún Chaoin. Photo by Declan Malone
A ‘good Samaritan’ was fined and disqualified after he got behind the wheel to help a stranded driver on a remote road at the western tip of the Dingle Peninsula. Robert Murray (71) appeared before judge David Waters at Dingle District Court on Friday. Solicitor Padraig Foley told the court that his client, a resident of Ballyickeen, Dunquin, drove to assist a stranded motorist on the afternoon of October 16, 2024 at Dunquin. But an unexpected vehicle appeared on the quiet rural road, a collision ensued, and gardaí were called to the scene. Days after the accident, Mr Murray was disqualified for driving without insurance for an incident earlier that year, Sergeant Chris Manton told the court.
The view from Dún Chaoin. Photo by Declan Malone
News in 90 seconds – Saturday, January 31
“He was acting as a good Samaritan on the day,” said Mr Foley. “There was no intention to drive.” “What do you think of that, Sergeant?” the judge asked court presenter Sgt Manton. The sergeant accepted those facts and agreed the road was narrow and quiet. The judge gave Mr Murray a €350 fine and four-year disqualification for driving without insurance, taking into consideration the charge for driving without a licence. “I have no choice,” said the judge. “That’s compulsory.”
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