Larkin appointment sparks claims of cronyism

THE Government was accused of “political cronyism” last night following the confirmation that the Taoiseach’s former partner Celia Larkin will be appointed to the interim board of a new powerful State consumer agency.

Ms Larkin is the nominee of Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's department to the new National Consumer Agency's interim board. Her appointment will be confirmed officially later this week by Enterprise, Trade and Employment Minister Mícheál Martin.

The revelation also sparked outrage among independent consumer groups who have been denied a place on the board.