Air Tax Slammed

The chairman of one of the province's leading business organisations has warned that the UK Government's proposals for Aviation Duty, which will replace Air Passenger Duty, will damage the Northern Ireland economy and could result in costs of up to £20 million. CBI Northern Ireland Chairman Brian Ambrose, who is also Chief Executive of George Best Belfast City Airport, gave the warning as the aviation industry continues to voice concerns over the proposed change.

Passport To Ireland

A top paramilitary boss, the UDA's Jackie McDonald has admitted that he has an Irish passport-holder, but has emphasised that he only applied for the document to make sure he could travel to a Rangers FC event in the United States. The loyalist leader's green credentials are revealed in a new book about Irish president Mary McAleese that, six years ago, her husband Martin pulled a few strings for him to get a passport via Dublin so that he could visit America. The Belfast man and loyalist friends have gone on golfing trips in the Irish Republic and had dinner at the Irish president's Dublin residence among other 'social' engagements in the past.

Asda Takeover Of Dunnes Rumoured

Jobs may be in danger in the Irish Republic as rumours emerge of a possible major deal between US-owned Asda and Irish-flagflyer, Dunnes stores. The trade union representing staff at Dunnes Stores has written to the company seeking clarification of rumours that it may be taken over by Asda, which is a major UK supermarket chain. The union Mandate says there has been persistent speculation about a possible takeover bid. Dunnes Stores is Ireland's largest retailer and has a total of 153 outlets employing 18,000 people.

(BMcC)