Delays to an aircraft project designed to bring hundreds of jobs to Northern Ireland could reduce its chances of success, according to a former Enterprise Minster.
Sir Reg Empey expressed concern after Bombardier Aerospace said it was suspending by three years the launch of its C Series passenger jet. Canadian-owned Bombardier's plane should be in service by 2013 if it can attract enough customers.
Sir Reg warned the interval could boost competition. "I would be concerned that if it is delayed much longer the risk is that competition from competitors like Boeing and Airbus will increase," the East Belfast Ulster Unionist said.
"There is a Government loan worth Stg£180 million waiting on this and I would be worried that could be lost."
Bombardier, which manufactures aircraft parts at its harbour estate factory in Belfast, is developing its C Series with a more efficient engine to reduce operating costs.
A spokesman said: "We believe there is a market but we have not got all the ingredients yet for the launch of a major programme like this.
"This is a programme which would last for over 20 years and while we believe there is a strong market there, we have been involved in discussions with a range of potential international partners and customers.
"At this stage the business case is not right for a major launch decision but we will make a further announcement in March."
PA