Taoiseachs jet in emergency landing

THE government jet, carrying the Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, to Brussels this evening (Monday), was forced to make an emergency landing at Baldonnel Aerodrome, writes Tom Shiel.

After attention to what was described as 'a technical hitch', the plane took off for Belgium, where it arrived safely a short time ago.

Mr. Kenny travelled to Ireland West Airport Knock mid-afternoon to link up with the aircraft, which had been flown west to collect him following his weekend break.

No exact details of the problem which affected the aircraft are known.

However, the Taoiseach and his travelling party are said to be 'none the worse' for their experience.

A spokesman for Ireland West Airport Knock confirmed the government jet with Mr. Kenny aboard had taken off for Brussels around 4 p.m.