Taoiseach stays silent over Smith

THE Taoiseach yesterday declined to say whether comments by the Minister for Defence Michael Smith would influence whether the minister features in the Cabinet after it is reshuffled later this month.

In Dundalk yesterday, Bertie Ahern would not say if the minister would be part of the new Cabinet following an interview on RTÉ’s Prime Time this week. During the interview, Mr Smith criticised the media’s portrayal of him. He said he was not a rebel and would not defy Mr Ahern despite reports he would not resign voluntarily.

The Taoiseach said he had not seen the programme and, “whether I am influenced or not I won’t be saying anything until the announcement at the end of the month.”