§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will list the demilitarisation measures taken in the past year; and if he will make a statement. [123506]
§ Mr. IngramListed are normalisation measures taken during 1999.
24 to 26 January 1999—Vacation of Patrol Bases at Mullan Bridge, Roscor Bridge, Wattle Bridge, Clonratty Bridge, Gortmullan Bridge, Killyvilly and Annaghmartin.3 February 1999—Demolition of Aughnacloy Permanent Vehicle Check Point.8 February 1999—Demolition of V3 Permanent Vehicle Check Point (Hump).12 February 1999—Demolition of V4 Permanent Vehicle Check Point (Muff).26 February 1999—Demolition of V1 Permanent Vehicle Check Point (Letterkenny Road).21 May 1999—Demolition of Fort Whiterock completed.9 July 1999—Requisitioned land in Crossmaglen returned to the GAA.3 August 1999—Demolition of Gortmullan Patrol Base completed.5 September 1999—Vacation of Carrickfergus Base.31 December 1999—Closure of Castlereagh Holding Centre.In April 2000, the Belfast Roulement Battalion was withdrawn.
The Royal Ulster Constabulary is also making increased use of soft-skinned and high profile liveried vehicles and beat patrols. Police officers increasingly wear fluorescent jackets and now patrol without military support in most parts of the Province.
In light of the lowering of the overall threat following the recent statement by the IRA the Chief Constable announced on 9 May further steps which will be taken within weeks to normalise security.
670WA further review of possible normalisation steps will be conducted in three months time taking account of the level of threat prevailing at the time and the circumstances on the ground.