Taoiseach admits Mahon probe was factor in decision to quit

BERTIE AHERN yesterday admitted the Mahon corruption probe had been a factor in his resignation decision.

The outgoing taoiseach also said he would like to be considered for the job of president of the European Union but feared it might be “going from the frying pan into the fire”.

Mr Ahern revealed that most of his cabinet colleagues were in tears when he informed them of his shock decision to leave office in May.