Lawlor demanded 'at least £150,000'

LAND developer Tom Gilmartin has accused Liam Lawlor of seeking at least £150,000 to assist with planning matters relating to major developments planned for Dublin city in the late 1980s.

In a statement contested by Mr Lawlor, Mr Gilmartin says the former Fianna Fáil TD made the first demand in June 1988 when he arrived "unexpectedly and unannounced" at a London meeting between Mr Gilmartin and representatives of British investment firm, Arlington Securities.

Mr Gilmartin was negotiating with Arlington to secure financial backing for a retail centre and bus terminus along Bachelors Walk on Dublin's quays. He says Mr Lawlor introduced himself as the "person appointed by the Government to look after Bachelors Walk" and sought a £100,000 consultancy fee.