Govt jet grounded for second time in 10 days

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern may be forced to cancel a planned trade visit to the Czech Republic after hydraulic problems grounded the Government jet for the second time in 10 days.

Mr Ahern was due to travel to Prague today to join 40 delegates from Enterprise Ireland who are trying to win business within the Czech Republic.

The Taoiseach's plans have now been thrown in doubt, but a Government spokesperson said alternative arrangements are under consideration.

Mr Ahern was recently forced to take a scheduled flight from Mexico back to Ireland after the Government jet broke down just as he finished an official visit to the country.

The Government is currently considering the purchase of a new jet at a cost of almost €50m, but the suggestion has led to widespread criticism due to the severe financial cutbacks introduced by the Fianna Fail-Progressive Democrats coalition in the past year.