Dublin: Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, who helped broker peace in Northern Ireland but couldn't survive a scandal over his collection of cash from businessmen, announced today he will resign.

Ahern, flanked by his senior Cabinet ministers, told a surprise news conference he would step down May 6. He denied ever receiving a corrupt payment, but conceded that 18 months of growing criticism of his financial ethics had taken a toll on the effectiveness of his government.

"Never, in all the time I've served in public life, have I put my personal interests ahead of the public good," Ahern said during a 10-minute statement during which his voice frequently wavered with emotion.

He said Ireland faced important challenges, including an expected June referendum on the European Union's next treaty, and the government must "not be constantly deflected by the minutiae of my life, my lifestyle and my finances."

"I have never received a corrupt payment, and I've never done anything to dishonour any office I have held. .. I know in my heart of hearts I've done no wrong and wronged no one," said Ahern, 56,who has been Ireland's leader for 11 years.

Ahern said he also planned to resign May 6 as leader of Fianna Fail, Ireland's dominant political party, which he has led since 1994. He vowed to continue fighting the accusation against him, and predicted the corruption investigation would conclude "that have not acted improperly in any way."

His two terms in office have been marked by unprecedented economic success at home and peace in the neighbouring British territory of Northern Ireland. 
Source : PTI