The Irish Times has independently established that there is no barring order against the Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern, writes Geraldine Kennedy, Political Correspondent. Authoritative sources, independent of the Taoiseach, have confirmed that no barring order was sought or raised during his separation proceedings from his wife, Mrs Miriam Ahern.
The question of domestic violence did not arise - nor was it threatened - in the proceedings.
As part of the negotiated settlement in the separation it was agreed that Mr Ahern would give prior notice of his intention to visit the family home in order to exercise his visiting rights to his children.
This is a normal part of negotiated settlements in separation cases, according to informed sources.