The Department of Transport and Aer Rianta have cleared the Cabinet Minister, Mr Seamus Brennan, of claims that he left unpaid a €5,000 bill for brandy and cigars more than a decade ago, writes Mark Brennock, Political Correspondent
Reports from the Department and the company exonerating the Minister for Transport were both published last night after intense pressure from the Government on Aer Rianta. The company had intended to say nothing until its board met next week, but relented yesterday.
Having spent five days with his political future in question following a Sunday Independent article, Mr Brennan last night welcomed the "clear and decisive" results of the investigation. "Public life is difficult, whichever side you are on, and to have your integrity questioned is deeply upsetting and hurtful," he said.
The report from the Secretary-General of the Department of Transport, Ms Julie O'Neill, last night said: "Following extensive inquiries . . . over the past five days, I have found no documentary or other evidence that might relate to an incident of the nature referred to in the Sunday Independent article."
The chairman of Aer Rianta, Mr Noel Hanlon, said his company's inquiry team had not seen any evidence which would substantiate the allegations. The inquiry was expected to be finally completed early next week, but "it is not expected that there will be any change in this position".
Ms O'Neill carried out her inquiry at the request of Mr Brennan. The Aer Rianta inquiry took place on foot of a series of questions sent to the company by her.