Wicklow Court Case Details

A creche worker has avoided a prison sentence after pleading guilty to driving without insurance and a license while disqualified in County Wicklow. The case was heard at a sitting of Bray District Court.

The Incident and Arrest

On November 27, 2025, Gardaí stopped a grey Dacia driven by Martina Dunne (66) at a checkpoint in Rathnew. Subsequent investigation revealed Ms. Dunne was a disqualified driver and lacked valid insurance documentation.

Previous Convictions and Mitigating Factors

Ms. Dunne has a history of driving offenses, with 13 previous convictions, including a three-year driving disqualification from Wicklow District Court. In 2021, she was similarly fined for a hit-and-run incident at Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court.

Her solicitor, Brendan Maloney, acknowledged her bad record but highlighted extenuating circumstances. He stated Ms. Dunne is a widow and was responding to an urgent call regarding her 93-year-old brother’s health on the day of the incident.

“She received a call that her 93-year-old brother was unwell, prompting her to drive to assist him.”

Brendan Maloney, Solicitor for the accused

The court also learned Ms. Dunne is a mother of five and works part-time as a cook in a Dublin crèche, earning €170 per week. She also assists with family responsibilities, including collecting her grandchildren from school.

Sentencing and Judge’s Remarks

Judge David Kennedy considered the circumstances but remarked that if she was “a couple of years younger I would have sent you to jail”. He disqualified Ms. Dunne from driving for a further five years, imposed a €1,000 fine, and sentenced her to six months in custody, which was then fully suspended.

FAQ

What charges did Martina Dunne face?

Ms. Dunne pleaded guilty to one count of having no insurance and one charge of driving without a license.

Where did the incident occur?

The incident occurred at a Garda checkpoint in Rathnew, County Wicklow.

What was the outcome of the case?

Ms. Dunne avoided jail time, receiving a suspended sentence, a fine, and a further driving disqualification.