Dunlop 'involved in preparing councillors’ tribunal statements'

The Mahon Tribunal has heard claims that former political lobbyist Frank Dunlop was involved in preparing statements for the inquiry from two former Dublin county councillors.

The claim was made at a special sitting today by Mary Maguire, a former secretary to the councillors - Michael J Cosgrave of Fine Gael and Liam Creaven of Fianna Fáil.

Ms Maguire said she typed statements for both men on days when Mr Dunlop had held meetings with them in March, April and October 2003.

She said the statements were dictated to her by Mr Cosgrave and, when she asked about the lobbyist's involvement, he put his fingers to his lips and said: "Say nothing."

Ms Maguire also said the former Fine Gael councillor told her to use different type-faces on the two statements.

Mr Dunlop has already told the tribunal that he paid bribes to several councillors in return for their support in planning matters in the late 1980s and early 1990s.