When I met the south Armagh farmers' and residents committee in October 1998, I discussed issues of concern to them regarding the activities of the security forces in the area and expressed my willingness to visit them in the area at a mutually convenient time in the future.
However, an opportunity arose during the Taoiseach's visit to Newry on 5 February 1999 for the south Armagh farmers and residents committee to put their concerns directly to the Taoiseach. That meeting took place in the Canal Court Hotel. Officials of my Department subsequently met with the committee in south Armagh on 22 July of this year.