UUP MLA voices concerns over Troop Withdrawal Plan
Ulster Unionist Deputy Leader, and Newry & Armagh MLA, Danny Kennedy, has voiced concerns over the recently published troops withdrawal plan.
There are currently just over 9,000 troops in the province, but that will be reduced to no more than 5,000 by 1 August 2007. The number of sites where troops are stationed will be reduced to 14 from about 40 in the next year and more watchtowers will be demolished.
Mr Kennedy said:
“I have continually warned the government about the dangers of premature removal of military personnel and installations. This continues to be my view in light of the recently published troops withdrawal plan.
“There is still a significant level of threat posed by dissident republicans and I am conscious that the South Armagh area still contains a sizeable rump of violent republicanism. The government really has no excuse to continue in the manner they are progressing.
“I am also concerned about the 3000 civilian staff province wide, including many in my constituency, who are understandably worried about their future. They find themselves in the same league as the RIR and I have been trying to make representations on their behalf to clarify how the Government intends to treat them.
“My growing concern for staff stems from the fact that many of these people will find it difficult to get alternative employment, given their security background. I have already raised my concerns with the Security Minister Shaun Woodward and intend to continue pursuing this issue with the utmost vigour.”