FF Senator troubled by Callely expense implications

Fianna Fáil Senator Marc McSharry has admitted that the implications concerning expenses claimed by Ivor Callely are potentially "very serious".

Mr MacSharry has also welcomed the recent overhaul of the expenses system which will see TDs and Senators expenses being published online.

Meanwhile, Senator Callely is understood to be preparing a statement for the Seanad on his expenses.

The Taoiseach Brian Cowen has asked him to explain after it emerged the normally Dublin-based senator has claimed over €80,000 in mileage and expenses from a West Cork address.