MLA calls for city runway inquiry

The airport's owners want to extend the runway

Progressive Unionist Party leader Dawn Purvis has said she wants a public inquiry into a proposed extension of the runway at Belfast City Airport.

She said it is needed because of opposition from residents, and the potential impact on the wider economy.

The East Belfast assembly member has joined forces with Green Party MLA Brian Wilson in tabling an Assembly motion calling for an inquiry.

However, she said is not optimistic of the chances of achieving her aim.

"I will make a prediction here and now that Sammy Wilson (environment minister) will not have a public inquiry," she said

"And that is the perception of the majority of the people who are opposed to this runway extension.

"We can come back in those comments in weeks to come to see if my prediction is true."

Inside Politics 1245 GMT, BBC Radio Ulster.