Ahern to make Dáil statement on tribunal contradictions

The Taoiseach is reportedly set to make a Dáil statement next week in an effort to dispel growing concern about contradictions in evidence at the Mahon Tribunal.

Earlier this week, PDs leader Mary Harney and Green Party leader John Gormley both accepted there was major disquiet about Bertie Ahern's testimony in relation to his personal finances.

They also said he was the only person who could move to address that disquiet.

The Taoiseach's handlers have been insisting that he will be making no public comment until his next appearance before the tribunal, which is not due until after May 20.

However, reports this morning say he now plans to bow to the pressure and make a Dáil statement on Wednesday.

The move follows the ordeal suffered by a former secretary at his constituency office, who was forced to admit to the tribunal last week that she lodged Sterling on his behalf in a branch of the Irish Permanent.

Mr Ahern has told the inquiry that the only lodgementsmade at the bank were the proceeds of his pay cheques.