Government jet carrying Taoiseach forced to make unscheduled landing

The government jet carrying the Taoiseach Enda Kenny to Brussels this evening was forced to make a precautionary landing at Baldonnell Aerodrome.

It happened after what was described as a 'technical hitch'.

The Taoiseach travelled to Ireland West Airport, Knock, midafternoon to link up with the aircraft which had been flown West to collect him after his weekend break.

No exact details of the problem that affected the aircraft are known, however Mr Kenny and his travelling party are said to be non the worse for their experience.

A spokesperson for Ireland West Airport, Knock confirmed this evening that the government jet with Mr Kenny aboard had taken off for Brussels at around 4pm.