O’Leary claims Ahern will be cross-examined

RYANAIR chief executive Michael O’Leary yesterday claimed Taoiseach Bertie Ahern would be cross-examined in the High Court over the Government’s decision to award the construction of the second terminal at Dublin airport to the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA).

In Shannon Airport, Mr O’Leary confirmed papers have been served on the Government in relation to Ryanair’s legal action over the decision. The case is being taken by Ryanair under EU competition and public procurement laws.

“We have our first hearing in October and expect to have a formal hearing before Christmas which will be great fun, because if it goes to a hearing, the defence witnesses on behalf of the Government will be Bertie Ahern and Minister for Transport Martin Cullen,” said Mr O’Leary.