Learner permit holder produced fake licence to Laois Gardaí
The man appeared before Portlaoise District Court
An asylum seeker who used a fake Belgian driving licence had a valid Irish learner permit, a sitting of Portlaoise District Court was told.
Ayyoub Ismaeel (26) of Cammia Motors, Sunbury Industrial Estate, Dublin 12, pleaded guilty to having a false Belgian licence and to having no insurance at Dublin Road, Ballyroan on May 11, 2026.
Garda Sergeant JJ KIrby said the accused was driving a O6D registered Toyota Prius when he was stopped. He produced the fake Belgian licence but admitted using a false document when questioned by Gardai. Sgt Kirby said the man had a valid Irish learner permit and had one previous conviction for possession of knives and other articles.
Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was pleading guilty. She said the man told her he is an asylum seeker from Jordan. She admitted “it was a bit strange that he would rely on a Belgian licence that was false” and she said he has booked a driving test.
Judge Susan Fay ordered a probation report and a community service suitability assessment.
Ms Fitzpatrick requested legal aid and said her client had no income.
“What is he living on?” asked Judge Fay.
“He is living with his friends. They have a garage,” Ms Fitzpatrick explained.
Judge Fay granted legal aid and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on September 28.