Gilmartin: ‘Reynolds got IDA to frustrate Quarryvale move’

FORMER taoiseach Albert Reynolds allegedly got the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) to block developer Tom Gilmartin’s plans to acquire lands for a proposed shopping complex, the Mahon Tribunal heard yesterday.

Mr Gilmartin claimed Cork-based developer Owen O’Callaghan told him some time later that “Albert seen to that” — a reference he took to mean Mr Reynolds, who was minister for finance in 1990 when the alleged interference took place.

Recalling how the 18 acres across the road from Quarryvale were vital for his project, Mr Gilmartin claimed Mr O’Callaghan told him Mr Reynolds got the IDA to approach the county council to say the authority needed the land.