Judge in the Midlands has ‘serious problem’ with  Brazilian meat workers sharing cars

A judge in the Midlands said there is “a serious problem” with Brazilian workers in meat plants buying cheap cars to share.

Welton Aparecido Matias Rodriguez (29) of Derrykearn, Abbeyleix appeared in court for not having insurance on the N80 at Rossleighan, Portlaoise on November 12 last. 

A previous court sitting was told the meat plant worker had been paying money to a broker in Brazil and believed he was insured.  

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client had since tried to get insurance. 

“With the Brazilian licence he can’t get insurance in this country,” he said. 

Mr Fitzgerald said his client was working in Kepak and has dependents. 

Judge Andrew Cody said while it “may sound racist” a pattern was emerging both in Laois and Offaly of meat factory workers from Brazil who live together getting Portuguese licences and buying 2005 and 2006 cars. 

“They pass the car around,” he said, adding that he would not tolerate them driving without insurance.  

Judge Cody said a clear pattern was arising with Brazilian meat factory workers employed in Edenderry and in Rathdowney.  

“That may sound racist but that is a very common theme,” he told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

Mr Fitzgerald said “I think this is an exception.”

“Is my impression wrong that there is a serious problem with meat workers from Brazil sharing cars,” Judge Cody asked the prosecuting garda. The garda agreed that there was a problem. 

Judge Cody fined the defendant €1,000 and disqualified him from driving for two years. He fixed recognisance in case of appeal.