Lawyers for the Moriarty Tribunal have said that the Isle of Man branch of the Irish Nationwide Bank is still refusing to co-operate with its inquiries. The Tribunal resumed public sittings this morning after a break of several months.
Michael Lowry held a secret offshore account at the Isle of Man branch of the Irish Nationwide Bank. Money which originated with Denis O'Brien was lodged to it, and this tribunal wants the details.
But, even though Michael Lowry has given a waiver, the Irish Nationwide in the Isle of Man will not let the Tribunal question bank officials. The bank says it is co-operating, it has provided documents and it says it will answer written queries.
This was one of several issues outlined in this morning's opening statement. Tribunal lawyers also revealed new evidence concerning a share transaction between Denis O'Brien and the late David Austin.
In late 1998 Denis O'Brien bought shares worth $300,000 for David Austin. But Mr Austin died two months later and the shares were transferred to Mr O'Brien's father-in-law.
Denis O'Brien maintained in evidence that the shares had been bought for Mr Austin in error. They were meant for his father-in-law. But Tribunal lawyers have now questioned this. They say they will be trying to find out the true nature of this transaction.
