A driver has been arrested and his tractor confiscated by police in County Mayo after it was found he did not have a valid driving license or car insurance.
Gardaí said the tractor was stopped while they were conducting high-visibility mobile patrols in northern County Mayo on Tuesday evening (July 14).
Officers also discovered that the driver was unfit to drive, which led to their subsequent arrest.
The police then conducted an insurance database check using “active navigation technology” and confirmed that the driver did not have insurance or a licence.
Gardaí also discovered that the tractor, which appeared to be a Zetor 9111, had no tax on it and that the vehicle was 2,600 days past due.
The tractor is towed away by Gardai. Source: Garda Sióchana Mayo
After the arrest, officers confiscated the tractor and charged the driver with “a number of crimes.”
According to Gardaí, the driver will be taken before the courts where he will face possible convictions for driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.
Potential penalties for these two convictions could include “a fine of up to €5,000 and/or six months’ imprisonment, as well as disqualification for an additional two years.”
In a social media post, An Garda Síochána said: “Insurance and a valid driving license are legal requirements for the safety of everyone on the public road.”
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Separately, Gardai in Co. Kildare A tractor was also seized last week after it was found that it did not have insurance either.
Garda Síochána Kildare explained that the tractor was among 12 vehicles seized on Wednesday 9 July as part of a national day of action, which focused on targeting uninsured drivers across the country.
The seized tractor appears to be a Massey Ferguson 4345 with a Tanco 220 front loader.
Tractor seized by police in County Kildare. Source: An Garda Síochána Kildare on Facebook
Officers stated that court procedures will now follow for the perpetrators.
According to Gardaí, driving without insurance should not be considered a “minor offence” as it can lead to “serious” consequences.
In a social media post, An Garda Síochána Kildare assured motorists that “insurance is not optional”.
“Insurance is a legal requirement that protects you, your passengers and all other road users.
“If you choose to drive without insurance, expect to be pulled over, expect your car to be confiscated, and expect to face consequences.
“No insurance, no excuses,” the post added.
