FF Ard Fheis to continue in Dublin under pressure from planning allegations

The 68th Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis will continue at City West, Dublin, today as the party faces the most damaging string of allegations in its history from builder Tom Gilmartin at the Planning Tribunal.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has been granted legal representation for his appearance before Justice Alan Mahon.

He was a minister at the time senior party figures are alleged to have received corrupt payments.

The party has also formally launched its countdown to the local and European elections.

In opening the convention last night, Bertie Ahern said he's determined to make reform of one-off housing planning laws a priority issue.

The Taoiseach is due to make his keynote speech this evening.