Ban for Tipperary motorist caught driving without motor tax for a fifth time

A Nenagh man has been disqualified for three months after he admitted driving without tax for a fifth time.

Wesley Heenan, aged 32, from Ballygraigue Road, Nenagh appeared before the local court, arising from a number of separate incidents in the town.

One offence related to the non-display of a tax disc at Kickham Street, Nenagh on November 15, 2023 while a similar offence was detected on March 3, 2025 at Martyr's road, Nenagh. 

Mr Heenan was absent when his case was initially called but Judge Marie Keane was assured by his solicitor John Spencer that he was in court that morning.

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She replied: "He is somewhat reluctant to stick around" whilst also referring to the fact that a number of bench warrants had been issued for his arrest in the past.

When the case was recalled, the court heard the 32 year-old defendant, who has 50 previous convictions, was driving a silver Volkswagen Golf when stopped by Garda Peter Kennedy who noted there was no tax disc displayed.

Mr Heenan became aggressive towards Garda Kennedy telling him to "f*** off" adding: "I can't wait to meet you when you're out of your uniform."

When asked by Garda Kennedy to produce various documents under the Road Traffic Act, he replied: "I'm producing nothing to you."

After being informed of the defendant's previous driving offences, Judge Keane asked: "Is there any reason why he thinks he doesn't have to tax his car?". 

The defendant was convicted and fined a total of €500.

Judge Keane also disqualified the defendant from driving for three months stating: "He has repeatedly failed to tax his car, this is his fifth instance."