The Taoiseach has told RTÉ News he thinks it is unlikely he will appeal this afternoon's judgement by the Mahon Tribunal, which has refused to halt its investigation into his finances or postpone his appearance before the tribunal.
Bertie Ahern said he will consult with his legal people but when pressed he admitted it is unlikely he will take the matter further.
In a ruling this afternoon, tribunal chairman Alan Mahon rejected arguments by Mr Ahern's lawyers that the issue was not within its jurisdiction.
Judge Mahon said examination of cash lodgements to accounts connected to Mr Ahern followed an allegation that he received a total of £80,000 from developer Owen O'Callaghan.
But the chairman said it will not allow lawyers for Tom Gilmartin to cross-examine the Taoiseach until a later date.
He said Mr Ahern is due to appear before the tribunal again to be questioned about other matters connected to the Quarryvale rezoning.
The issue of the cash lodgements will be dealt with as a 'ring fenced' matter over the next two weeks.
And Judge Mahon said the tribunal had decided to do this in an effort to minimise delays caused by the medical condition of two lengthy witnesses, Mr Gilmartin and Frank Dunlop.
He pointed out that the tribunal is under pressure to complete its inquiries as soon as possible and that some witnesses had expressed their desire to give evidence in public.
Mr Ahern is now due to give evidence on the afternoons of 26 and 27 July following evidence from his former partner Celia Larkin and Manchester businessman Michael Wall.
There will also be evidence from AIB officials.
