Mahon Tribunal Told Bruton "Remembers" Conversation

The continuing Mahon Tribunal has heard former Taoiseach John Bruton say that he “now remembers” a conversation with party colleague Frank Dunlop telling him of a request for money from a Fine Gael councillor.

Mr Bruton admitted that on two previous occasions he strenuously denied to the Mahon Tribunal that this conversation ever took place.

Speaking at the ‘Tribunal of Inquiry Into Certain Planning Matters and Payments’, commonly known as the Mahon Tribunal, the former Fine Gael leader said it was Mr Dunlop's evidence last week that rang a bell in his mind.

Mr Dunlop previously said Fine Gael councillor the late Tom Hand had demanded £250,000 to support a development, at Quarryvale, and that he complained to the Mr Bruton about the councillor’s request for a substantial amount during a Fine Gael fundraiser in May 1993.

However, Mr Bruton testified today that he still does not remember Mr Hand's name being mentioned and that was he was taken aback by the allegation.

(BMcC)