Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Apr 2003

Vol. 565 No. 4

Written Answers. - Northern Ireland Issues.

Martin Ferris

Question:

74 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make representations to the British authorities regarding the ongoing and serious levels of harassment by the Crown Forces in County Fermanagh, particularly in view of a serious incident which took place on 10 April 2003 as the two Governments were preparing to deliver their proposal for progress in the peace process. [11248/03]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

The Deputy brought to my attention a number of complaints about British security force activity in County Fermanagh in recent weeks. These complaints were raised with the British authorities through the framework of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. The British authorities have responded to our representation.

First, in relation to the incident at Magheraveely, County Fermanagh, on 22 March last, the British Ministry of Defence has stated that no RIR vehicle-checkpoints were mounted at Magheraveely on the said date. Second, in relation to the incident at Teemore, County Fermanagh, on 10 April, it is stated that this incident was investigated by the local civilian representative who expressed army regret at any resultant inconvenience and undertook to relay concerns expressed by local people.

In general terms, the Government's consistent position is that, in situations where military activity is deemed to be necessary by the British authorities, it should be carried out in a manner which takes full account of the sensitivities of the local community. We have continually stressed that all aspects of the Good Friday Agreement need to be implemented fully, including swift and ongoing movement towards full security normalisation throughout Northern Ireland. The issue of normalisation is also being taken forward in the current discussions between the two Governments and the political parties.