A driver has been arrested and had their tractor seized by gardaí in Co. Mayo after they were found to have no valid driving licence or insurance for the vehicle.

Gardaí said the tractor was stopped while they were carrying out high-visibility mobile patrols in north Co. Mayo on Tuesday (July 14) evening.

Officers also discovered that the driver was disqualified from driving, which resulted in them being subsequently arrested.

Police then conducted a check on the insurance database using "active mobility technology", and confirmed that the driver had no insurance or licence.

Gardaí also discovered that the tractor, which appears to be a Zetor 9111, had no tax, and that the vehicle was 2,600 days overdue.

Following the arrest, officers seized the tractor and the driver was charged with "a number of offences".

According to gardaí, the driver will be brought before the courts where they will face potential convictions for driving while disqualified and driving with no insurance.

The possible penalties for these two convictions can include "fines of up to €5,000 and/or six months imprisonment, plus additional two-year disqualification."

In a social media post, An Garda Síochána stated: "Insurance and a valid driving licence are legal requirements for everyone’s safety on a public road."

Gardaí

Separately, Gardaí in Co. Kildare also seized a tractor last week after it was found to have no insurance as well.

An Garda Síochána Kildare outlined that the tractor was among 12 vehicles seized on Wednesday, July 9 as part of a National Day of Action, which focused on targeting uninsured drivers across the country.

The seized tractor appears to be a Massey Ferguson 4345 with a Tanco 220 front loader attached.

Officers stated that court proceedings will now follow for the offenders.

According to gardaí, driving without insurance should not be considered as a "minor offence" as it can carry "serious" consequences.

In a social media post, An Garda Síochána Kildare emphasised to motorists that "insurance is not optional."

"Insurance is a legal requirement that protects you, your passengers and every other road user.

"If you choose to drive uninsured, expect to be stopped, expect your vehicle to be seized, and expect to face the consequences.

"No insurance; no excuses," the post added.