Tractor seized after driver flees checkpoint on Mayo's N59

A tractor has been seized after its driver attempted to evade a Garda checkpoint on the N59 in north Mayo.

Mayo Roads Policing were running a high-visibility checkpoint on the road this morning, assisted by the Road Safety Authority.

The driver of an agricultural vehicle spotted the checkpoint ahead and attempted a sudden detour.

Gardaí stopped the vehicle. A check on the insurance database using Active Mobility technology revealed a catalogue of offences.

The vehicle had no insurance, which the driver admitted.

The driver also admitted to holding no valid driving licence.

The tractor's tax had expired more than 3,000 days previously, that's over 8 years without tax.

The tractor was seized. A court appearance is expected to follow.

Under Irish law, driving without insurance carries a fine of up to €5,000 and/or six months' imprisonment, along with a two-year driving disqualification.

Insurance and a valid driving licence remain legal requirements for all road users, Gardaí said, and are essential for the safety of everyone on public roads.