No talks with Real IRA, says Ahern

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern insisted last night that no negotiations took place between the Government and the Real IRA after the Omagh bombing.

A report in a Sunday paper claimed his special advisor, Martin Mansergh, had asked a Catholic priest to act as a conduit between the Irish Government and the Real IRA leadership.

The report also claimed Mr Mansergh had made phone contact with the priest during his discussions with the Real IRA (RIRA) three weeks after the Omagh bombing.