One of the first drink-driving prosecutions using a new computerised breath-testing device resulted in a £350 fine and a two-year ban for a motorist yesterday.
Mr Peter Paul McCahill, of Mount Argus, Dublin, was convicted in his absence. Dublin District Court heard he was stopped driving in Temple Bar and taken to Pearse Street Garda station on May 1st. Two breath samples gave an immediate computer printout showing an average reading of 74 microgrammes per 100 ml of breath. The legal limit is 35 microgrammes.
Judge Timothy Crowley ordered that the fine be paid within a month, or Mr McCahill would face five days in jail.