In beginning his sentencing this morning, Judge Keelan Johnston described witness accounts of the accused's car driving erratically and swerving into oncoming traffic, resulting in several near misses.

Longford Councillor Paraic Brady says Minister Ryan will have blood on his hands if he does not change his priorities.

The route had been closed for a number of hours this morning to allow a technical examination, but has now reopened.

The road traffic collision took place yesterday on the N5 near Strokestown

Diversions are in place at Tulsk and Strokestown.

The collision led to the road being closed and diversions being put in place

The collision happened shortly after three o' clock this afternoon

He was the sole occupant of the car, and no other injuries were reported.