Government unveil two-year 'normalisation' plan

The Government today unveiled a two-year security normalisation plan in response to last week's IRA statement saying that the organisation was "standing down."

Secretary of State Peter Hain confirmed that troop levels in the province will drop by over half to around 5,000 soldiers. These cuts will also see the Northern Ireland-based battalions of the Royal Irish Regiment disbanded by 2007.

A number of security bases and installations will also face closure under the plans including the closure of Forkhill Base; the removal of Tower Romeo 12 in South Armagh; and dismantling of the super-sangar in Newtownhamilton. Work has already started on these and will be completed within a six-month period.

“In April 2003 the Government set out proposals to normalise the security profile across Northern Ireland when there was an enabling environment," Mr Hain said on Monday. "Following the IRA statement of 28th July, we are now moving quickly to begin that process.

“Provided the enabling environment is established and maintained this programme will be achievable within two years though if the conditions are right to move more quickly in implementing elements of the plan, the Government will do so."

Under the normalisation plans, work will also begin on the removal of the observation post at Divis Tower in Belfast and the two observation towers at Masonic in Londonderry. Work is beginning this week and will also be completed within six months.

Meanwhile, PSNI Chief Constable Sir Hugh Orde has called on Sinn Fein to engage "directly, openly and constructively" with police.

Sir Hugh said policing was a public service which should be available to all members of the public and that public representatives had a "positive obligation to facilitate us in being available to their public".

"In fact, if they don't they run the risk of being left behind because communities who witness the commitment of my officers on the ground are learning that we can and do protect them, and that with increased confidence, trust and co-operation comes enhanced understanding, better relationships and better results," he added.

Sir Hugh said he welcomed last week's IRA statement which was "clearer than anything we have seen from them previously" but said that the actions which follow that statement would be "crucial".

(MB/SP)