Statement by TUV MP, Jim Allister:-
“This week I had a meeting with the Armed Forces minister to oppose moves which are afoot to stand down the Northern Ireland Guard Force (NIGF).
“The NIGF, which comprises fulltime Reserve soldiers, has for years provided armed guards at the 11 Reserve Army bases in NI. Now, there is a move by MOD to disband the armed guard cohort.
“This, I believe, would be foolhardy and prejudicial to public and soldier safety, particularly at a time when the terrorists threat is still rated as “substantial “.
“I strongly pressed home these issues with the the minister and look forward to his promised response.”