Ahern moves to defuse Collins controversy

The Taoiseach has moved to defuse the controversy over his knowledge of the tax problems of backbencher Michael Collins.

In a statement issued this evening, Bertie Ahern said he had been told the problem had been sorted out.

Earlier, after Mr Ahern admitted that he knew some months ago that Deputy Collins had an 'issue' with the Revenue Commissioners, the Opposition said it raised questions over his leadership.

Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny has said Bertie Ahern must explain why he did not take action on the matter before now.

He added that, given the Taoiseach's delay in acting on the information he had, the question arose as to whether tax evasion is privately being accommodated in Fianna Fáil.

Tánaiste Mary Harney, speaking this morning, said she only became aware of Mr Collins' tax problems last Friday, and that she would have expected Bertie Ahern to have briefed her about the situation earlier.

However, she said the matter was primarily one for the Fianna Fáil party, as it did not involve Government issues.

Labour leader Pat Rabbitte described the Taoiseach's original statement as 'extraordinary', and said it raised questions about Mr Ahern's claim that there is no tolerance within Fianna Fáil for the culture of tax evasion.

He claimed that the only conclusion that can be drawn is that Fianna Fáil will only act against tax cheats in their own ranks when the matter becomes public.

Deputy apology

In relation to the matter of Fianna Fáil deputy GV Wright, who was arrested for drink-driving, the Taoiseach has confirmed the TD had contacted him by phone this morning and personally apologised for what happened.

Bertie Ahern told reporters that what Deputy Wright had done was totally wrong and he will have to face the full rigours of he law.