Dunlop to continue evidence at Mahon Tribunal today

Former political lobbyist Frank Dunlop is due to continue his latest evidence to the Mahon Tribunal today.

The inquiry into planning corruption in Dublin is currently examining the rezoning of land in Ballycullen, near Tallaght, in the early 1990s.

Mr Dunlop has already told the tribunal that he paid IR£11,000 in bribes to nine county councillors in return for their support on the rezoning motion.

He has also insisted that developer Chris Jones was aware that bribes were being paid on his behalf, despite his denial of any knowledge of the payments.

Mr Dunlop said yesterday that, while payments were never specifically discussed, Mr Jones knew well that bribes would be necessary.

He said the business culture of the time meant rezoning motions were never signed without money changing hands, with corrupt councillors charging a going rate of between €2,000 and €2,500 for their signature.