Minister Dermot Ahern Welcomes Demolition of remaining Observation Towers in South Armagh

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dermot Ahern T.D., this morning welcomed the beginning of work to demolish the final five British military observation posts in South Armagh. 

The Minister said, “The dismantling of the watchtowers on Camlough Mountain, Jonesborough Hill and Croslieve is yet another tangible demonstration of the transformed security situation in Northern Ireland, and of the benefits it brings to everyone.

“For years these installations dominated the landscape of South Armagh.  Their removal, as part of an ongoing process of security normalisation, is an important step in giving a fresh start to these communities in moving away from the shadow of conflict and towards an open and prosperous future.

“Security normalisation is a key goal of the Irish Government and we welcome this positive move. I look forward to the continuing implementation of this demilitarisation programme which is due to be completed by July 2007.”

ENDS+++
Press Office
3rd April 2006