Mahon rejects ‘unprecedented’ criticism

THE Mahon Planning Tribunal yesterday challenged Taoiseach Bertie Ahern’s lawyer to take his grievances to the courts if his senior counsel believed the inquiry was treating the Taoiseach unfairly.

Tribunal chairman Judge Alan Mahon made the suggestion when he again categorically rejected claims of bias, made on Monday by Conor Maguire SC.

The tribunal is putting the spotlight on the Taoiseach’s personal finances arising from allegations by businessman Tom Gilmartin that Mr Ahern received substantial payments when he was minister for finance.