Driving ban for man stopped at checkpoint in Stradbally

A motorist who was stopped at a checkpoint in Laois the morning after a family gathering has been banned from driving. 

Cameron Molloy (30) of Blackhall, Colbinstown, Dunlavin, Co Kildare, admitted drink driving on the N80 at Kylebeg, Stradbally on May 5, 2025.

He appeared before a sitting of Portlaoise District Court where Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant had been stopped driving at a checkpoint in Stradbally on the date in question. 

Sgt Kirby said the defendant had been cooperative with gardaí and had given a breath sample reading 67mgs per 100mls of alcohol.  He said the man had no previous convictions. 

Andrew Dunne BL said his client had made admissions at the time he was stopped and was supported in court by his husband. 

On the evening before being stopped, Mr Dunne said the man had been “drinking at a family barbecue” and he had eaten and showered the following morning before getting into his car. “He thought he felt ok to drive… he is incredibly sorry,” said Mr Dunne. 

Judge Andrew Cody said it was a particularly high reading. “I don’t know how anybody would have thought they were alright,” he remarked. He asked what time the man was stopped by gardaí. 

Sgt Kirby said the man was stopped at around 7.50am on the morning in question. 

Judge Cody disqualified the man from driving for three years, fined him €2,000 and fixed recognisance in case of appeal.