Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I will answer both questions. I have dealt with the matters in the report which relate to me in answers to questions from the tribunal and that is the appropriate manner. I am happy the tribunal accepted my evidence and was satisfied that I had no reason to believe the leader's account was operated otherwise than in an orthodox fashion. I am also pleased the tribunal stated in a report that it is noteworthy that at my insistence, amendments have since been made in the governing of the leader's allowance accounts. I have already dealt with the matters relating to the conduct of Mr. Haughey.

With regard to the costs of the tribunal, I have already congratulated Mr. Justice Moriarty and his staff on bringing the long work to a successful conclusion. They are currently working on the remaining part of the report which is expected to be passed this year. The other point made by the Deputy is in accordance with the facts.

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