Ahern backs British firm bid for flights

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern has given his backing to an application by a British airline seeking to operate flights between Heathrow and Shannon.

On Thursday, he faxed a direct appeal to the head of the British firm which is assessing applications for airlines seeking new slots at Heathrow. However, Mr Ahern got an immediate reply telling him the process is confidential.

He was not told if his intervention would be considered.