A BUSINESSMAN caught up in deals with former cabinet minister Michael Lowry was “paid off” to drop a series of actions amid an alleged bid to blackmail communications magnate Denis O’Brien, the Moriarty Tribunal heard yesterday.

MICHAEL LOWRY’S accountant told the Moriarty Tribunal yesterday the former Fine Gael cabinet minister had no involvement in the purchase of English Football League club Doncaster Rovers, acquired by family interests of telecoms magnate Denis O’Brien.

AN American telephone company allegedly offered stg£2 million for the files connected with a British property purchase by telecoms tycoon Denis O’Brien’s family, the Moriarty Tribunal heard.

Businessman Denis O’Brien threatened tonight to take the Moriarty Tribunal to the High Court to prevent further damage to his personal reputation.

DERMOT BROWNE walked away from British horseracing for another 20 years yesterday issuing a warning that some of his fellow conspirators remain active within the sport to this day.