‘Tribunal’s trawl through my personal finances is over’

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern walked away from Dublin Castle yesterday telling journalists and spectators the trawl through his personal finances had come to an end.

“From my point of view it’s been satisfactory. I did what I always said I’d do. I said I’d come in front of the tribunal. I’ve just spent four full days here and I’ve done that.”

Asked if he thought the issue had come to an end, he replied: “Yes.”

He also said he thought he had been treated fairly.

He stood over evidence by his expert bank witness Paddy Stronge to back his claim money lodged into his bank account in December 1994 was sterling and not dollars, as alleged by tribunal lawyers.

“Stronge’s report shows quite clearly that, while maybe it’s not conclusive which way it is, I think the chairman’s summary was fair that you can’t conclusively prove (it).”

He reiterated to the gathered media outside the inquiry that the matter under investigation was allegations he received IR£80,000 from Cork-based developer Owen O’Callaghan.

“Remember what I’m here for. The issue is whether Owen O’Callaghan gave me any money. You’ve listened to it for four days and I don’t think anyone believes he did.”

Judge Alan Mahon is not expected to publish his report on the current phase of the tribunal, including Mr Ahern’s evidence, until late 2008 at the earliest.

Mr Ahern said yesterday it was up to the inquiry chairman whether he chose to release his conclusions earlier than expected.

“That’s ultimately a matter for the tribunal,” he said.

The tribunal will hear from developer Tom Gilmartin until at least the middle of next month as well as former Government press secretary, Frank Dunlop.

A host of Mr Ahern’s close political allies and friends who gave him funds during the 1990s are also scheduled to give evidence towards the end of October, as well as TDs and ministers who served during that period alongside Mr Ahern.