The launch of a new political party is at an advanced stage of preparation by one of the two barristers responsible for the establishment of the Flood tribunal. It intends to contest 15 constituencies in the next general election on a broad policy platform, including anti-corruption.
Mr Colm MacEochaidh, who along with Mr Michael Smith offered a £10,000 reward for information on land rezoning corruption which ultimately led to the resignation of Mr Ray Burke and the establishment of the planning inquiry, is behind the new party.
It is understood that Mr Smith, who is national chairman of An Taisce, is not associated with the new initiative.
Mr MacEochaidh, together with some of his supporters, feel that a new party could win votes with recent opinion polls showing a huge backlash against the Government and other established parties following sensational revelations at the Flood and Moriarty tribunals.
Mr MacEochaidh told The Irish Times last night "I'd rather not comment at this stage".
It has been confirmed, however, that the new party aims to have a broader platform than anti-sleaze issues. It is planning to offer a "new perspective" to voters and is now preparing detailed policy positions on transport, education and housing.
It will also seek to challenge the focus of the National Development Plan and the expenditure of millions of pounds on roads rather than on public transport. It believes that the State has dropped down the league in education and is seeking to set new priorities. It will also concentrate on the housing crisis and is expected to be strong on conservation and environmental issues.
Mr MacEochaidh has been involved in several high-profile, environment-related court cases and many of the new party's supporters are expected to be drawn from the environmental lobby. He represented some of the Glen Of The Downs protesters.
The Irish Times learned yesterday that tightly-controlled discussions and soundings have taken place in recent weeks about the establishment of the party. It is understood several potential candidates have been consulted about the idea. It is not clear, however, whether Mr MacEochaidh intends to be a candidate or to be a facilitator in the party's establishment.
It was not intended to formally announce details of the party until near the next election when it was planned to have a full fanfare launch with candidates.
Mr MacEochaidh and Mr Smith offered an anonymous reward of £10,000 in 1995 through Newry solicitors Donnelly, Neary and Donnelly. They took the action after Garda investigations in 1974, 1989 and 1993 failed to pin down corruption rumours. Within weeks, 30 people had contacted the firm.
It could not be confirmed last night whether the new party intends to concentrate its candidates in Dublin constituencies or to contest the 15 marginals around the State.