Driver refused to give a blood sample because doctor was black

An East Clare farmer was banned from driving for four years after refusing to provide a blood specimen because the doctor designated to take the sample was black.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Carroll Moran said he was “really appalled by John McNamara’s conduct and attitude” toward the doctor.

He said McNamara’s reasons for not providing a sample to the doctor “were quite objectionable” and upheld a fine of €2,500 imposed on McNamara in the district court.