Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

There are two questions, first on the question of the polar opposites, I again refer Deputy Kenny to the complete transcript of 20 September 2007. Judge Flaherty used the phrase, "polar opposites" but I encourage Deputy Kenny to read the entire transcript and see the context of the exchange rather than zoom in on one soundbite. Judge Flaherty said the reason I gave the tribunal in public session had never previously been offered by me. When it was pointed out to the judge that I had put that view forward in a comprehensive statement last May she accepted that clarification. I gave the detailed reason in that statement and set out the exact context. Deputy Kenny has taken one soundbite, which is not a reasonable thing to do.

I have been a huge supporter of rules and standards regarding the declaration and recording of anything received by Members. I have complied fully since this became a requirement in 1995. I have given a full account of what I received. Those regulations were not in force then but I would have given the facts if the regulations had been in force. I made it clear that I considered the money to be loans and not contributions. Last week Deputy Kenny tried to put a figure on the sums of money. From three different sources I received about forty-seven thousand and paid back just short of ninety-eight thousand. I have dealt with the matter completely and in a proper fashion. I have not contravened anything I said.

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