Builder caught speeding loses licence for a month

Paul Joseph Shiels (33), of Crewe Road, Maghera, was also fined £80 with a £15 offender levy arising out of the incident last year.

Prosecuting counsel told Magherafelt Magistrates Court on Wednesday the detection was made by a mobile speed camera at 1.25pm on September 11.

She said the vehicle was detected doing 65mph in a 50mph speed zone.

Counsel said that since the defendant already had nine valid penalty points on his licence he was not offered the speed awareness course.

Admitting the offence Patrick McGuckin solicitor said he had contacted the Northern Ireland Road Safety Partnership when the defendant received the fixed penalty notice, but they were unable to assist because of the nine penalty points.

Mr McGuckin pointed out that the offence happened on a “dry, clear day” between Maghera and Castledawson.

He explained that Shiels had received the other penalty points for speeding and not wearing a seat belt. The solicitor said the defendant is a self-employed builder and employed two men whom he picks up in his van.

“He’s a hard working young man who is coming into a busy time of the year,” he stressed.

Mr McGuckin pleaded with the court to consider imposing a short period of disqualification to enable him to continue working.

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