Taoiseach Enda Kenny said an early reading of the Mahon tribunal revealed “corrupt practices” among a number of politicians and “sets out in very direct fashion the conduct of the former taoiseach” Bertie Ahern.
Mr Kenny said the Government had referred the report to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the Garda Commissioner, the Revenue Commissioners and the Standards in Public Office Commission.
He said the report had also been referred to Fine Gael's internal disciplinary committee to deal with any findings in relation to party personnel.
"This tribunal report sets out in very direct fashion the conduct of the former taoiseach," Mr Kenny said. "The tribunal speaks for itself. A litany of unacceptable statements from the former taoiseach."
Asked if he was surprised by what he read, Mr Kenny said he was.
Minister for Housing and Planning Jan O'Sullivan welcomed the publication of the report and said she intended to act on its recommendations.
"The tribunal report makes important recommendations regarding our planning system. After considering the entire tribunal report and its recommendations I will bring forward proposed reforms for discussions with colleagues," she said.
"I am adamant that no ambiguity can be allowed to exist as regard the roles of the minister or the elected member in the planning system, and tribunal recommendations will inform my thinking in this regard."