The chairman of the Green Party, Dan Boyle, yesterday expressed concern over recent allegations regarding Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's personal finances.
Senator Boyle said he hoped issues relating to a payment of £5,000 to Mr Ahern by the former managing director of NCB stockbrokers could be clarified, as well as recent allegations regarding Mr Ahern and the planned development of a casino in the Phoenix Park.
"I must admit to some concern in relation to the allegation, which is still an allegation. We have to hear further evidence about it in relation to the casino proposal and the involvement of a State agency with that proposal.
"I think that's an area that does need to be clarified, and it would be helpful that the further evidence in the tribunal process will do that," Mr Boyle told Lunchtime with Eamon Keane on Newstalk.
When asked whether he supported calls by a small number of Fianna Fáil backbenchers for Mr Ahern to provide further details, he said: "Internal Fianna Fáil politicking is best left to Fianna Fáil. They have the right to choose who their leaders are; and they have the right to choose how they choose them."
He added: "They have a right to have internal policy debates. The Taoiseach is expected to make further contributions to the Mahon tribunal, and the Mahon tribunal has to assess the credibility of that evidence and whether there is a case to answer, and our position hasn't changed at all in relation to that."
Former financial director of NCB stockbrokers Padraic O'Connor has told the tribunal that a £5,000 contribution to Mr Ahern was aimed at covering his constituency expenses.
However, Mr Ahern has insisted the payment was for his personal use, and part of the so-called "dig-out" loans made by his friends and associates. He has also rejected claims that he gave approval to the National Lottery to enter talks with Manchester businessman Norman Turner about becoming involved in plans for a casino in Dublin.
Mr Ahern is due to appear before the tribunal this month and in the New Year.
