McDowell denies split with Ahern over bars

JUSTICE Minister Michael McDowell yesterday rejected suggestions that there were differences between himself and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern on the controversial café bars proposal.

“I’ve kept the Taoiseach well briefed on my proposal. We’re at one on this issue. We know what we want to achieve and are determined to bring the community with us,” he said.

Mr Ahern has said the proposal remained one for discussion, was “not set in stone” and would come back to the Cabinet.