FF funds ended up in building trust

FUNDS raised for the Fianna Fáil party were diverted into an account administered by businessman Tim Collins — the only signatory until earlier this year when two joint treasurers were appointed, the Mahon Tribunal heard yesterday.

He could not explain why IR£19,000 — described as the proceeds of a 1992 golf classic for Mr Ahern’s Dublin Central constituency — ended up in the so-called BT (building trust) account the witness controlled.

Another golf classic was listed as being held at St Anne’s club on July 18, 1975, at which £10,000 was raised. It was lodged to the BT account and Mr Collins could not explain why it was given to him.