Callely refutes expenses allegations

Ivor Callely insisted tonight he acted in good faith when submitting expense receipts from a company that had gone out of business – but admitted he was repaying the money he received.

The embattled Senator, who until now has remained silent on the controversy, said he had received mobile phone invoices and passed them on to the Oireachtas believing that they were accurate.

A statement issued by the former junior minister claimed he had no reason to think the bills were not in order.

“He submitted to the Houses of the Oireachtas in November 2007 the four receipts to cover the period of January 2002 to July 2006, totalling €1,907.64,” the statement said.

“He does not know how these receipts were issued by a company that had ceased trading.

“It is now clear that these claims should not have been made.”

Mr Callely regretted the difficulties which had been created, the statement added.

“He therefore withdraws these claims and refunded all monies to the Leinster House authorities in respect of the said invoices concerning the amount paid on mobile phone expenses (Total €2,879.45).”

Mr Callely was suspended from the Seanad last month without pay for 20 days after an inquiry found he intentionally misrepresented where he lived for the purpose of claiming allowances worth €81,000.

The parliamentary watchdog, due to reconvene at the end of August to deal with the fresh allowance allegations, has brought forward its hearing to Monday.

Fianna Fáil also suspended the controversial Senator without prejudice earlier this week as it launched its own investigation into the mobile phone revelations.

He is already facing a garda investigation after Commissioner Fachtna Murphy wrote to Seanad clerk Deirdre Lane requesting clarification on certain matters.

In the statement, Mr Callely said considerable distress had been caused to himself and his family by the latest suggestions of wrongdoing.

“He is also aware of the impact and concern of the general public and his colleagues in Leinster House,” the statement added.

“Ivor Callely has also contacted his legal advisors today for the purpose of assisting the investigation and vindicating his position.

“He has been advised not to make further comment pending the investigation.”