The debate rages on as to whether the Revenue Commissioners or Charlie Haughey got the better deal when the former taoiseach agreed to settle one part of his tax liabilities for just in excess of £1m. Quidnunc is unsure, but worries that Haughey has been given until the autumn to pay up. A quick canter through some of the Moriarty Tribunal evidence shows Haughey leading AIB a merry dance in the 1970s as the bank sought to get its money back.
One internal AIB memo said plaintively: "Mr Haughey fails to see the precarious position he is in and obviously feels that his political influence will outweigh any other considerations by the bank. As the point has now been reached where the account appears to be out of control, consideration must be given to the taking of a firm stand by the bank . . ."
Of course, as we know, no firm action was taken - if you exclude the AIB chairman inviting Haughey to lunch. No doubt the Revenue will be more resolute.