Lawlors faces first night in jail

Liam Lawlor TD is facing his first night in jail after being found in contempt of court by the High Court earlier this week. The independent Dublin West TD will serve seven days as part of a three-month sentence, the bulk of which is suspended.

Reaction to his jailing has been firm, with opposition parties calling for further sanctions.

Since early morning, the media gathered at several entrances to the Four Courts anxiously awaiting Liam Lawlor to lodge an appeal to the Supreme Court. However, as the hours rolled MR Lawlor's application for appeal never materialised.

Then, as the media gathered at Mountjoy Jail, the word filtered through that Deputy Lawlor had given everyone the slip. He had secretly entered Mountjoy Jail at 12.20 through a side entrance, an hour and a half before the formal commencement of his sentence.

Tanaiste Mary Harney said today that she would be calling for his removal from two Dail committees while Fine Gael's John Bruton says it is time for Mr Lawlor to step down as a TD from the Dail.

Mr Lawlor’s historic jail term will last until next Tuesday when it would appear a host of other problems for him will only begin.