Ahern’s London address ‘odd’

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern became embroiled in fresh controversy last night over planned high-profile appearances on the diplomatic stage during the General Election campaign.

Labour leader Pat Rabbitte questioned British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s decision to invite Mr Ahern to address a joint session of the British parliament just nine days before the May 24 polling date.

Mr Rabbitte described the move as “odd” as he backed ex-finance minister Ruairi Quinn’s warning that Mr Ahern should not seek to exploit the peace process in the North for electoral advantage.