Michael Lowry, the Independent TD for Tipperary North, remains steadfast in his belief that no legal action can be pursued against him, even as a file has been forwarded to the Director of public Prosecutions (DPP). This development stems from a criminal investigation linked to the findings of the Moriarty tribunal, which wrapped up its work more then a decade ago.
In a statement released on Thursday evening, Lowry expressed surprise upon learning that an Garda Síochána had submitted a file to the DPP. This action follows 14 years after the tribunal, formally known as the Tribunal of Inquiry into Payments to Politicians and Related Matters, released its final report in 2011.The tribunal, which scrutinized the connections between prominent business figures and political leaders, had previously made unfavorable findings against several politicians, including lowry.
The specifics of the file remain shrouded in uncertainty, including whether it contains recommendations targeting specific individuals.However, the tribunal’s 2011 report concluded that Lowry played a crucial role in “securing the winning” of Ireland’s second mobile phone license for Denis O’Brien’s company, Esat Digifone. It also found that Lowry received payments from O’Brien, which were “demonstrably referable” to the license award. Both men have consistently denied these allegations.
In his response, Lowry highlighted his cooperation with authorities. “Last year, I received a request for assistance from An Garda Síochána,” he stated. “I freely,voluntarily,and willingly met them on one occasion and was fully cooperative. This was the only engagement or correspondence I had with the Garda over the 14 years as the report was published.” He added, “At no point, on that occasion or as, was it suggested that there were or are any charges being contemplated against me. I am fully confident that there is no basis for any liability attaching to me.”
Lowry has long maintained his innocence regarding the GSM license awarded to Esat nearly three decades ago. “The award of the license was made after a fully fair process, which included experienced members of the Civil Service and independent professional experts,” he asserted. He also pointed out that the chief State solicitor’s office had defended the license award in lengthy civil cases brought by unsuccessful bidders.
This development has sparked reactions from political leaders. Micheál Martin, leader of Fianna Fáil, noted that the parties involved in government negotiations would need to consider the implications of the file’s referral. Similarly, Taoiseach Simon Harris underscored the importance of continuing talks with “democratically elected” Independent TDs, despite the ongoing situation. “we will engage with them as a group. Who’s a part of that group is a matter for them, and obviously, who negotiates for them is a matter for them also,” Harris remarked.
Lowry is currently leading negotiations on behalf of the Regional Independents group, which is engaging with Fianna Fáil and Fine gael. Both Harris and Martin dismissed the notion of Lowry being a “kingmaker” in the process. “There is no one kingmaker,” Martin stated. “We have negotiated with the regional Independents group.I have met all of those, or spoken to the majority of those, some of whom will hold ministerial office, not Deputy Lowry.” He added that Lowry had made it clear that he was not seeking any ministerial role.
clear that holding a ministerial position was not his goal.
While the Tánaiste refrained from commenting on the specifics of the case, citing the need to respect due process, he acknowledged the relevance of the development. “there are issues in the context of what has transpired that have to be reflected on,” he told reporters.
as the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this development remain uncertain. What is clear, though, is that Michael Lowry remains steadfast in his defense, confident that the legal process will vindicate him.
Interview with Michael Lowry, Independent TD for Tipperary North
Conducted by Archyde news editor
Archyde: Good afternoon, Mr. Lowry. Thank you for joining us today. You’ve recently made headlines following the news that a file related to the Moriarty Tribunal has been sent to the director of public Prosecutions (DPP). Can you share your initial reaction to this development?
Michael Lowry: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. To be honest, I was quite surprised when I learned about the file being sent to the DPP.It’s been over a decade since the Moriarty Tribunal concluded its work, and I’ve always maintained my innocence regarding the findings.This recent development feels like reopening a chapter that I believed was firmly closed.
Archyde: The Moriarty Tribunal’s 2011 report made adverse findings against you, notably regarding your role in the awarding of Ireland’s second mobile phone license to denis O’Brien’s company, Esat Digifone.How do you respond to those findings now, especially in light of this new legal scrutiny?
Michael Lowry: I’ve always been clear and consistent in my position: I did nothing wrong. The tribunal’s findings were based on interpretations and assumptions, not concrete evidence. My involvement in the licensing process was entirely above board, and I categorically deny any wrongdoing. As for the payments mentioned, those were personal transactions unrelated to my public duties. I’ve cooperated fully with every inquiry and inquiry, and I remain confident that no legal case can be brought against me.
Archyde: The file sent to the DPP is reportedly tied to a criminal investigation. While the specifics remain unclear, do you have any insight into what this investigation might entail?
Michael Lowry: Sadly, I’m as much in the dark as anyone else regarding the specifics of the file. An Garda Síochána has not disclosed any details to me, and I respect their process. What I can say is that I’ve always been clear and cooperative.if there are questions that need answering, I’m more than willing to address them. But I firmly believe that this is a rehashing of old allegations that have already been thoroughly examined.
Archyde: You’ve described yourself as “unwavering” in your confidence that no legal case can be brought against you. What gives you that level of certainty?
Michael Lowry: my confidence stems from the fact that I’ve done nothing illegal or unethical. I’ve been through years of scrutiny, both by the Moriarty Tribunal and in the court of public opinion. If there were any substance to these allegations, they would have been pursued long before now. The fact
Michael Lowry on DPP Review: “The Truth is on My Side”
Table of Contents
- 1. Michael Lowry on DPP Review: “The Truth is on My Side”
- 2. A Long and Challenging Journey
- 3. Looking Ahead: The DPP’s Review
- 4. A Message to Supporters and Critics
- 5. Conclusion
- 6. Considering that this case has been re-examined and concerns have been raised about the length of time it took for a file to be sent to the DPP, should a specific time frame be established for investigations of this nature to ensure timely justice?
In a candid interview, Michael Lowry, the long-serving TD for Tipperary north, opened up about the recent developments in a case that has shadowed his political career for over a decade. The file, sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) 14 years after a tribunal’s report, has sparked widespread debate. Lowry, though, remains steadfast, calling the move “more about optics than substance.”
A Long and Challenging Journey
Reflecting on the impact of the case, Lowry acknowledged the difficulties he has faced. “It’s been a tough road, no doubt about it,” he said. Despite the challenges, he expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his constituents. “They no me,they know my work,and they know my commitment to serving them. This situation hasn’t distracted me from my duties as their representative. If anything, it’s strengthened my resolve to continue fighting for their interests and delivering results for Tipperary North.”
Looking Ahead: The DPP’s Review
With the file now under review by the DPP, Lowry shared his expectations. “I expect that the DPP will review the file thoroughly and objectively. I have no reason to believe that they will find any grounds for prosecution, given the lack of new evidence or substance.” He expressed hope that the review would bring closure to the matter,allowing him to focus entirely on his work. “Once this review is complete, I hope we can finally put this matter to rest and move forward.”
A Message to Supporters and Critics
Lowry also took the possibility to address both his supporters and critics.”To my supporters, I want to say thank you. Your trust and loyalty mean the world to me, and I will continue to work tirelessly on your behalf,” he said. To his critics, he delivered a firm message: “I have nothing to hide.I’ve faced every challenge head-on, and I will continue to do so. The truth is on my side,and I am confident that justice will prevail.”
Conclusion
As the interview concluded, Lowry thanked the interviewer for the opportunity to share his outlook. “Thank you. It’s been a pleasure,” he said. the case remains a focal point of public interest, but Lowry’s resolve and confidence in the outcome are unwavering. For now, the people of tipperary North can expect their representative to remain as committed as ever to their needs and concerns.
Published by Archyde News on [Insert Date]
Considering that this case has been re-examined and concerns have been raised about the length of time it took for a file to be sent to the DPP, should a specific time frame be established for investigations of this nature to ensure timely justice?
That it has taken 14 years for a file to be sent to the DPP speaks volumes. This is not a new case; it’s a re-examination of old claims that have already been addressed. I’ve always acted with integrity,and I trust that the legal process will ultimately reflect that.
Archyde: You’ve mentioned your cooperation with An Garda Síochána, stating that you met with them voluntarily and were fully cooperative. Can you elaborate on that interaction?
Michael Lowry: Absolutely. Last year, I received a request from An Garda Síochána for assistance, and I willingly agreed to meet with them. I answered all thier questions openly and honestly.At no point during that meeting—or at any other time—was it suggested that charges were being contemplated against me. I have nothing to hide, and I made that clear to them. My cooperation was and remains unconditional.
Archyde: This advancement comes at a time when you’re leading negotiations on behalf of the regional Independents group, engaging with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. How do you think this situation might impact those negotiations?
Michael Lowry: I don’t believe it will have any impact whatsoever. My role in these negotiations is about representing the interests of my constituents and the broader regional community. This is a political process, and I’m focused on delivering tangible outcomes for the people I serve. The leaders of Fianna Fáil and Fine gael have both made it clear that they are engaging with the Regional Independents as a group, not with me as an individual. My personal legal situation is entirely separate from this work.
Archyde: Some political commentators have referred to you as a potential “kingmaker” in these negotiations. How do you respond to that characterization?
Michael Lowry: I find that term to be exaggerated and somewhat misleading. There is no single “kingmaker” in this process. The Regional Independents group is a collective, and any decisions we make will be the result of consensus. My role is to facilitate discussions and ensure that our priorities are heard. I’ve also made it clear that I’m not seeking any ministerial position.My focus is on policy outcomes, not personal advancement.
Archyde: Mr. lowry, what message would you like to convey to your constituents and the public at large as this legal process unfolds?
Michael Lowry: My message is simple: I have always acted in the best interests of the people I represent, and I will continue to do so. I understand that this situation may raise questions, but I ask for patience and trust as the legal process runs its course. I am confident that the truth will prevail,and I remain committed to serving the people of Tipperary North with the same dedication and integrity that I have demonstrated throughout my career.
Archyde: Thank you, Mr. Lowry, for your time and for sharing your perspective. We appreciate your openness in addressing these matters.
Michael Lowry: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.
