‘Mischievous’ letter seeks Fianna Fáil award for Ahern

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has said he would not support former taoiseach Bertie Ahern becoming a member of the party.

Mr Martin was responding to correspondence received from headquarters on Thursday seeking a distinguished service award.

The letter was “mischievous” in nature insisting the awards are for grassroot volunteers, Mr Martin said.

Such recipients have offered their services voluntarily to the party and should not be given to people who have had the honour of serving in office, he added.

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Mr Martin said: “That is our award, that is our reward. It is a great privilege to serve in office and as republicans that should satisfy us.”

Mr Ahern has not been a member of Fianna Fáil since the publication of the Mahon report in 2012.

The former party leader revealed his resignation following an announcement by Mr Martin that a motion would be put to the Ard Comhairle seeking his expulsion.

His local constituency branch in Dublin Central has requested a motion seeking his return to the party.

Asked if Mr Ahern should be allowed to return, Mr Martin said his position had not changed.