Witness Gilmartin has already been granted immunity from prosecution

Property developer Mr Tom Gilmartin has been given immunity from prosecution, it emerged yesterday.

The DPP directed that in the public interest Mr Gilmartin be given immunity in relation to his allegations to the tribunal in 1998, tribunal lawyers revealed yesterday. At the time, the developer was living in England and could not be compelled to return to Ireland to give evidence.

The tribunal detailed the various complaints Mr Gilmartin made about alleged corruption and obstruction at the time he was trying to develop two shopping centre projects in Dublin in the late 1980s.

He says he met the minister for the environment, Mr Pádraig Flynn, in February 1989 to outline the difficulties he was facing, and his belief that George Redmond and Mr Liam Lawlor were behind a campaign to frustrate his developments.

According to Mr Gilmartin, Mr Flynn had little to say, but had suggested that he make a substantial donation to Fianna Fáil, as this might help to "curb" the activities of others. He decided not to do so, but brought his allegation to the then city manager, Mr Frank Feely, and the assistant city manager, Mr Seán Haughey.

At this meeting, he detailed the allegations that are now under investigation by the tribunal. He also told Mr Feely about the £5 million extortion demand made in February 1989. However, on that occasion he identified Mr Lawlor as the person making the demand. Mr John Gallagher SC, for the tribunal, said this was an an "apparent contradiction" that would have to be investigated in evidence.