Taoiseach’s evidence to tribunal delayed

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern’s testimony will not be heard until the Mahon Tribunal returns in September from its summer break.

The probe into the Taoiseach’s finances arise from Sligo-born developer Tom Gilmartin’s claim that he was told Mr Ahern was given IR£80,000 in return for political favours connected with the Quarryvale lands, now under the tribunal’s spotlight.

Mr Gilmartin alleged Cork-based property developer Owen O’Callaghan bragged about paying Mr Ahern two sums seeking to influence the planning process in the early 1990s. Both Mr O’Callaghan and Mr Ahern deny the allegations.