Court told Ryanair don’t fly between Portlaoise and Rathdowney

A meat factory worker found driving on a Brazilian licence was convicted of having no licence or insurance. 

Luciano Goncalves, 46, of 12 Carmody Way, Fairgreen, Portlaoise was stopped driving an Audi A4 at  Moneyballytyrrell, Portlaoise on June 22 last. 

Garda Dan Mannix said the defendant had been driving on a Brazilian Licence “that’s not recognised in Ireland” on the date in question. He said the man had no previous convictions. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client had worked in a meat factory in Rathdowney for the past five years. He was returning home from work when he was stopped by Garda Mannix, he explained. 

Mr Fitzgerald said he now has an Irish licence and he told the court that the man was the main breadwinner in his family. He said the man’s insurance and Irish driving licence were both in place in September of this year. 

Judge Andrew Cody wanted to know how the man got to work in Rathdowney between June and September. 

“Ryanair don’t fly from Portlaoise to Rathdowney,” said Judge Cody. 

Mr Fitzgerald asked for time to speak with his client. When the case was called again he explained what had happened. 

“He was getting a lift to work with a work colleague between the time he was arrested and got cover on the car,” he said.

“He has everything in order now Judge,” he added. 

Judge Cody fined the man €400 for not having insurance and €200 for not having a licence.