Judge formerly represented Lawlor associate, trial hears

Legal counsel for Dublin West TD Liam Lawlor has claimed that Justice Thomas Smith represented a client in 1989 who is scheduled to testify before the Flood Tribunal. The court heard today that Mr Justice Smith, in his capacity as a then solicitor, represented a Mr Kennedy in a case unconnected to the tribunal.

The same Mr Kennedy had a business relationship with Liam Lawlor, the court was told. Mr Justice Smith is hearing the case for alleged contempt of court being taken against Deputy Lawlor. Counsel for the tribunal, Frank Clark, said there was no cogent or rational link between the advice given by Thomas Smith and any corruption which the tribunal was formed to investigate. Mr Justice Smith is to decide upon his position in this case within the next hour.