The brother of a motorcyclist who died in a crash near Ballinamore wants to know why there are no prosecutions in the case. The news emerged at Andrew Mitchell’s inquest this morning. Andrew Mitchell, from Derrada, Ballinamore, Co Leitrim, died after coming off his motorbike at Aghacashlaun, near Drumcong, on March 3, 2022. He was aged in his 40s and originally from the UK. His inquest opened today in Carrick-on-Shannon Courthouse, where the coroner, Fergal Kelly, sympathised with Andrew’s brother, Adam, who was present.
An application was made by solicitor Gabriel Toolan, on Adam’s behalf, to adjourn the inquest. He said Mr Mitchell wants to explore why there have been no prosecutions taken in the case. The inquest heard a decision was made by the DPP not to press charges against the driver of another vehicle. Mr Toolan said Adam was going to formally seek copies of the reasons for no prosecutions – and he said that decision may be appealed. Mr Toolan said the DPP’s decision was troubling to Adam, having regard to what he said was the preponderance of evidence available.
Coroner Kelly agreed to adjourn the inquest. He didn’t set a date for the adjournment but said he would endeavour to do so before Christmas.