NI: Blair Prepared to Cut Troop Numbers

[joe2812]

In the Observer the other day that Blair plans to cut numbers of troops in NI, aswell as dismantling of more army spy posts in south Armagh, even if there is no deal between the Ulster parties at this week's talks in Kent.

How much of this is a knock on from the recent MOD cutbacks? The situation in NI hasn't really changed in my opinion and the Real IRA are still around in the areas of Derry etc.

Wise move or ney?

[ralphmalph]

It is probably likely that troop levels will drop in the province within the next two years anyway....
The Bn at Omagh is probably not going to be replaced and the PSNI will be taking controll of Druncree completely next year with any luck.

Any drawdown will almost surely be welcomed by the population in general with "normalisation" the keyword.

As happened with options for change and the withdrawal of troops in Germany, we will probably be expected to cut the armed forces in line with the numbers returning to the mainland.

After all where are we going to put everyone???!!! why! all the nice expensive real estate being sold off will make a packet.....why waste it on some soldiers/airmen/sailors.

[NURSE]

Given the political climate and the spin that the troubles are over well I suppose in a way they are. The surrender document was signed on good Friday and the prime minister lied to the people of northern ireland to get the yes vote in the referndum.
Since then release of prisioners, non democratic assembley with terrorists in government, emasculation of the finest police service in the world, and reduction in security presence in the provance.
In return has there been any verifiable decomissioning? disbandment of the PIRA or any hint the war is over ?

No but of course there has been what Bliar wants no IRA activity on the mainland UK the IRA and the other paramilitary groups can do what they want in the provance and it will be covered up.