Lawyers for Mr Charles Haughey are studying the script of the current Abbey Theatre production of Sebastian Barry's new play Hinterland in which the central character bears remarkable similarities to the former Taoiseach. Mark Brennock, Political Correspondent reports.
The Abbey Theatre sent a copy of the script of the play to Mr Haughey's solicitors, Ivor Fitzpatrick and Company, after a request on behalf of the former Taoiseach this week.
According to an Abbey spokeswoman, the letter from Mr Haughey's solicitors did not state whether legal action was under consideration, but said they believed the play contained material "that might be of concern to Mr Haughey". Mr Eoin McGonigal SC, who represents Mr Haughey at the Moriarty Tribunal, would not comment on reports he attended the play on Tuesday, saying he was not prepared to say where he was "in my private time". Asked if Tuesday night was "private time", he said every night and day was private time, "except when I am in court".
Many details in the play, including the fall from grace of the central character amid financial scandal, coincide with events in Mr Haughey's life.
The Abbey would not comment yesterday, beyond confirming the request for a copy of the script, and that it had complied with the request.