Taoiseach launches legal action against Planning Tribunal

The Taoiseach has initiated legal action against the Planning Tribunal.

Mr Ahern said he was defending the principle that comments made by him in the Oireachtas which are subject to Dáil privilege cannot be used against him outside Leinster House.

Speaking this afternoon, he also said that the Tribunal has independent legal advice which he claims it will share with his legal team.

Details contained in a financial report about his personal finances will also be subject to the legal challenge.