The Irish News was told at a hearing that it is entitled to postpone payment of £25,000 it owes in libel damages to a businessman.
The paper is currently appealing a High Court libel ruling in favour of Ciarnan Convery, the owner of a Goodfellas restaurant in Belfast.
In 2000, food writer and restaurant critic Caroline Workman criticised the quality of food, drink and staff at the establishment which the court deemed as defamatory.
The appeal is due to be held in January.
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