FF councillor claims tribunal leaks led to election snub

A FORMER Fianna Fáil councillor has blamed alleged leaks from the Planning Tribunal for his de-selection by the party before the 1999 local elections.

Colm McGrath, an independent member of South Dublin Co Council, claimed information he gave the tribunal during a private interview several years ago was given to Fianna Fáil within 24 hours. However, tribunal barrister, John Gallagher SC vehemently rejected any such suggestion.

“That is your opinion; I don’t share that view,” replied Mr McGrath, a Fianna Fáil councillor for the Clondalkin area between 1985 and 1999.