Taoiseach urged to make statement on casino claim

The Labour Party is calling on the Taoiseach to make a statement over allegations that he gave approval to the National Lottery to enter talks with a Manchester businessman who had plans to build a casino in Dublin.

Labour Party TD Joan Burton says Bertie Ahern needs to put the record straight or he will do irreparable harm to the office of the Taoiseach.

Former An Post chief executive John Hynes has said in recent days that Mr Ahern gave the National Lottery secret approval to hold talks with Norman Turner about running a casino in the Phoenix Park.

Mr Ahern has rejected the claim, but Ms Burton is demanding urgent clarification of what exactly went on at the time.

She says many questions remain unanswered.