Hundreds of drink-driving charges struck out last year

HUNDREDS of people accused of dangerous driving and drink-driving had their cases struck out last year, it has emerged following the collapse of the prosecution against singer Joe Dolan.

In addition, large numbers of those who faced serious indictable charges, including driving, drugs, sex and assault offences had their cases dropped in the lower District Court.

While the garda at the centre of the Joe Dolan case was criticised by the presiding judge for his non-attendance in court, legal and court sources said there were various reasons for a strike-out.