A 39-year old north Clare man pleaded guilty on Wednesday to dangerous driving causing the death of Stephanie Fitzpatrick on the main road leading to Lahinch last year.
At Ennis Circuit Court, Damian McNamara of Lissatunna, Ennistymon pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing the death of Ms Fitzpatrick at Cloonaveigh, Lahinch Rd, Ennistymon on Saturday, February 19th last year.
Ms Fitzpatrick was a front seat passenger in the 05-D registered car being driven by Mr McNamara at the time of the fatal road crash.
Mr McNamara also pleaded guilty to “drink driving” from the same location on the same date. Members of Ms Fitzpatrick’s family – accompanied by a Garda liaison officer – were in court for the arraignment.
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Counsel for Mr McNamara, Michael Collins, said Mr McNamara was in a relationship with Ms Fitzpatrick at the time and said that there are sensitivities on both sides.
The case had been listed for trial on Wednesday.
Ms Fitzpatrick was part of a large and well-known family from Doolin Road, Lisdoonvarna in north Clare.