Mallow Courthouse
A woman, in possession of a South African driving licence, has been fined and given penalty points for driving without insurance or a licence.
Kunjulma Koni (54), with an address on Davis St, Mallow, was stopped on April 26 by Garda Deirdre Barrett from Mallow Garda Station.
The court heard that Ms Koni had produced a South African driving licence which wasn’t valid and had no valid insurance. The court also heard that she had no previous convictions and was going to her first day at work and had been ‘let down’ regarding transport.
Ms Koni was asked for her licence and produced a provisional licence.
“She cannot drive the car without a fully qualified driver,” said the Judge.
“Has she got insurance since?” said the Judge, which she has the court was told.
Defence solicitor David O’Meara that the woman had two young children and was working.
“If I disqualified for her, would it make things better or worse?” Judge Colm Roberts asked Ms Koni’s solicitor.
“Much worse,” replied Mr O’Meara.
Judge Roberts then asked what work Ms Koni was employed in, to which Mr O’Meara explained that she worked in healthcare.
“Very important work,” said the Judge, “but you need to comply with the law.”
Kunjulma Koni was fined €250 and given three months to pay. She also received five penalty points on her licence.