Ahern counsel rebuked for attack on Gilmartin

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern’s barrister at the Mahon Tribunal has been rebuked for an attempt to demolish the credibility of key witness Tom Gilmartin.

Tribunal chairman Judge Alan Mahon told Conor Maguire SC his behaviour was “improper” and “unhelpful” after the barrister brought up surprise evidence of a court case Mr Gilmartin was involved in 26 years ago in which a judge labelled him “shifty”.

Yesterday’s proceedings ended noisily after counsel for Mr Gilmartin intervened to defend his client. Counsel for the tribunal objected to Mr Maguire’s conduct, Mr Maguire protested his cross-examination was being “neutered” and Mr Gilmartin insisted on responding to the criticisms.