Decision expected on Ahern's finances today

The Mahon Tribunal is expected to give its decision today on whether to continue its investigation into Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's finances.

Mr Ahern's lawyer, Conor Maguire SC, made a submission to the planning corruption inquiry last Friday claiming it had no jurisdiction to probe his personal affairs.

The Taoiseach has been summoned to appear at the inquiry in Dublin Castle on July 26 and 27 just before it breaks for the summer.

Mr Maguire claimed key parts of the investigation into Ahern's finances, as part of the Quarryvale II module, form part of the J2 list, drawn up by the tribunal.

But the Supreme Court ruled a fortnight ago the tribunal had failed to comply with its own terms of reference in drawing up this list.

Following that decision, the tribunal may no longer have the jurisdiction to hold public hearings into any of the 47 items on this list.

Mr Maguire SC is also seeking to have key witness property developer Tom Gilmartin cross-examined by lawyers before Mr Ahern gives evidence.

Mr Gilmartin alleged Cork-based property developer Owen O'Callaghan paid Mr Ahern £80,000 as he sought to strike a deal to build at Quarryvale, the site of the Liffey Valley shopping centre.

Mr Ahern categorically denies the allegation.

Last Friday, Mr Maguire said Gilmartin's credibility was "withering on the vine".