References to the Taoiseach's long-term partner, Ms Celia Larkin, as his "mistress" were not worthy of comment, Mr Ahern said yesterday.
In his High Court challenge to the State's nomination of Mr Hugh O'Flaherty to the vice-presidency of the European Investment Bank, Mr Denis Riordan repeatedly alleged that a "special relationship" existed between the wife of the former Supreme Court judge and "Ahern's mistress". Mr Justice Morris said he was only allowing such allegations to be read into court lest anyone should say he was trying to prevent it.
Speaking in Cork last night, Mr Ahern said he had discussed the matter with Ms Larkin and they had decided not to say anything.
Mr Riordan was also criticised for his comment by the Fine Gael TD Ms Olivia Mitchell, who said she was surprised that Mr Riordan was allowed to speak in such a manner. "It is totally inappropriate language and not pertinent to the case whatsoever," she said.
Ms Mitchell said the term used was "insulting to all couples who are living together but are not married for whatever reason. It was very injudicious and gratuitous for Mr Riordan to use it".
Echoing her views, the Minister of State for Education and Science, Mr Willie O'Dea, said Mr Riordan's use of the term "mistress" seemed "designed to insult rather than make a point."
"Denis has a right to take the case, but if he thinks using terminology like this will advance his case he is mistaken", he said.