THE CRIMINAL ASSETS BUREAU has begun an investigation into the finances of Independent TD Michael Lowry, following the publication of the Moriarty Tribunal report last week.
The investigation will examine Lowry’s tax status and will centre particularly on financial transfers and loan support of around £867,000stg between businessman Denis O’Brien and Lowry, RTÉ’s Paul Reynolds said on today’s News at One.
The North Tipperary TD and former minister had availed of a tax amnesty in 1993, but said a few years later that his tax obligations remained outstanding. He afterwards agreed a million-euro settlement with the Revenue, however, RTÉ says that settlement doesn’t grant him immunity from prosecution if any criminal offences were committed.
The government referred the report to the DPP and the Garda Commissioner.
None of the tribunal’s evidence or statements can be used in any garda or CAB investigation; potential witnesses would have to provide separate statements to investigators.
Lowry is due to respond to the tribunal report this evening in the Dáil ahead of a Q&A session involving Minister Pat Rabbitte. Although earlier the government had signalled that the Taoiseach would not take questions from the chamber, it now appears that Enda Kenny will respond to questions at the end of the two-day debate tomorrow.
Kenny is also expected to address the issue of corporate donations to Fine Gael.
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