Rory O'Hanlon
Question:65 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when it is proposed to remove the British Army checkpoint at Aughnacloy, County Tyrone. [2718/96]
Written Answers. - British Army Checkpoint.
As I have indicated in reply to previous questions on permanent vehicle checkpoints on the Border, the Government's view is that these should be removed as soon as possible. I have put this view to the British side in the framework of the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. Concerns about particular checkpoints, including that at Aughnacloy, are also raised through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat.
While some progress has been made towards restoring normality at Border crossings, particularly through the reopening of previously closed crossings, the situation in regard to the removal of the static vehicle checkpoints is disappointing. Only a small number of static checkpoints have been completely removed.
In the Joint Communiqué of 28 November 1995, the two Governments reaffirmed their willingness to continue to take responsive measures, advised by their respective security authorities, as the threat reduces. This broad approach has been endorsed in the recent report of the International body. The removal of the remaining Border checkpoints, including the installation at Aughnacloy, should form part of these responsive measures and I will continue to press the British authorities for early progress in this regard.