Social Affairs Minister Mary Hanafin today insisted that any cuts to social welfare benefits in the upcoming budget will be made on a fair basis.

The Irish League of Credit Unions is calling on the Minister for Finance to make sure its members are untarnished by any changes to the financial services regulatory system.

Colin Hunt has been appointed to the board of Aer Lingus as a non-executive director with immediate effect. Mr Hunt, a nominee of the Minister for Finance Brian Cowan will be designated as “Minister’s Nominee” in accordance with the company's articles of association.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland (ICAI) has described an amendment introduced by the Minister for Finance to the Finance Bill at committee stage as 'unfair'.

LESS than three weeks ago Enda Kenny made some ground with a well-crafted speech at his party’s mini árd fheis in Galway.

Yesterday's release of the Government exchequer figures for 2002 has prompted much criticism from Opposition parties.