Heated debate in Dáil over Connolly affair

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has refused to answer Dáil questions on whether the Centre for Public Inquiry posed a threat to the State.

The body has been headed by former journalist Frank Connolly, who it's alleged travelled to Colombia in 2001 using a false passport.

Attempts by the opposition to get answers have proved unsuccessful.

Labour leader Pat Rabbitte asked if Minister for Justice Michael McDowell's recent comments about Mr Connolly were linked with an investigation into his department's purchase of Thornton Hall for a new prison.

The Taoiseach said he was not going to deal with the question in few seconds and that Mr McDowell will address the issue in more depth later this evening.