§ Mr. BluntTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the direct costs are of the security normalisation measures he announced on 24 October. [11071]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 1 November 2001]: I have been asked to reply.
The normalisation measures announced on 24 October 2001 were the closure of two observation towers on Camlough and Sturgan mountains, the sangar at Newtownhamilton, and an Army base at Magherafelt.
Initial demolition work at all four sites has commenced with Royal Engineer manpower and helicopter support using assets already available in Province. Additional costs of some £10,000 have been incurred to date covering the hire of additional equipment such as cranes and skips.
Further work will be required at each of the sites, and in many cases this will be done by civilian contractors. The scope and cost of these contracts is still being assessed.