Soccer coach escapes ban after being caught without insurance

A soccer coach with more than 20 convictions has escaped being put off the road after being caught at the wheel without insurance.

Michael Fadian (46) of 94 Farranshock Park, Mullingar, Westmeath, came before last Thursday’s weekly sitting of Mullingar District Court to answer a series of road traffic summonses after he was stopped by gardaí on January 11 this year.

Judge Vincent Deane was told the accused had been driving in the Dalton Park area shortly before 3pm by Garda Sean Barrett.

Sgt Orla Keenan said Garda Barrett, who had been on patrol at the time, carried out a check on his garda mobility device and noticed the accused was driving without a valid insurance policy.

Mr Fadian subsequently pleaded guilty to that and of having no licence and failing to produce driving documentation within 10 days.

Sgt Keenan said the accused also had 23 previous convictions that dated to 2010.

In defence, Louis Kiernan said his client was manager of the Mullingar Town soccer team and relied on transport to carry out his everyday duties.

“He also has school runs as well as managing the football team,” said Mr Kiernan, responsibilities that involved travelling to compete in matches across Leinster.

Legal aid was granted to Mr Fadian after the court was told the accused was currently not in employment.

Judge Deane fined Mr Fadian €400 for the no insurance summons, giving him six months to pay while taking into account the corresponding summonses.