Cosgrave lawyer says Flood Tribunal should stand down

A lawyer representing former Fine Gael Senator Liam Cosgrave has said the Flood Tribunal should stand down because it has been tainted by evidence from former political lobbyist Frank Dunlop.

Mr Dunlop has told the tribunal that he paid bribes to several councillors, including Mr Cosgrave, in return for their votes on rezoning motions relating to lands at Carrickmines in south Dublin.

Michael O'Higgins, representing Mr Cosgrave, said today that the allegations, which he described as lies, have compromised the tribunal.

Mr O'Higgins asked why Mr Dunlop's actions were not referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions and he accused the tribunal of not discharging its duties properly.