Cork woman gets 10-year driving ban after fifth time getting caught driving without insurance

Judge Ryan also imposed a four-month suspended prison sentence, and fines totalling €1,250

The defendant was given six months in which to pay a €500 fine for having no licence and a €750 fine for driving without insurance. File photo

A 33-year-old woman caught driving without insurance for the fifth time showed scant regard for the law, a district judge said as she banned her from driving for 10 years.

Hayley O’Connor of Bride Valley View, Upper Fair Hill, Cork, was stopped by Garda Eoghan O’Mahony at lunchtime on November 11, 2025, at Fairfield Road, Farranree, Cork.

Sergeant John Dineen said that when the motorist was stopped she admitted that she did not have insurance or a driving licence, but that she had to collect an elderly relative.

Frank Buttimer, solicitor, outlined the particular circumstances of the defendant in relation to the care of this relative and matters which arose on the day that caused her to drive the car.

Sgt Dineen said Hayley O’Connor was convicted four times previously for driving without insurance.

Judge Catherine Ryan said: “It is an appalling record.” Mr Buttimer agreed with this description and he outlined the particular mitigating circumstances. 

However, Judge Ryan said that while it may have been motivated by the desire to assist someone else she could not drive without insurance.

Judge Ryan imposed a four-month suspended prison sentence, a 10-year driving disqualification and fines totalling €1,250.

The judge concluded the case with a warning for the defendant: “You are not able to drive, you are going to have to rely on other people or public transport. The court is giving you some leeway because of your personal circumstances.” 

The defendant was given six months in which to pay a €500 fine for having no licence and a €750 fine for driving without insurance.