Independent Mayo TD Beverley Flynn today refused to apologise over a failed multi-million euro libel case against RTÉ.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern today clearly anointed Tánaiste Brian Cowen as his natural successor as Fianna Fáil leader but he may not hand over power to him until 2012.

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, acknowledged today that he must have spoken with the property developer who claims to have donated IR£50,000 (€64,000) to Fianna Fáil.

Mayo TD, Beverly Cooper-Flynn will find out in the High court later today what her costs bill may be for her libel case against RTE.