ROYAL IRISH REGIMENT HOME BATTALIONS

Early day motion 1107, tabled 29 April 2003 by David Burnside (UUP). Signed by 19 members.

That this House recognises the brave and valuable contribution made by the home service battalions of the Royal Irish Regiment, formerly the Ulster Defence Regiment, to the peace and security of life and property in Northern Ireland for over thirty years; believes that long-term peace and security in the province requires continuing vigilance and security provided by the continuation of the full operational capability of a minimum of three home battalions made more essential by the recent reduction in police numbers and international demands on army strength; and calls on Her Majesty's Government to retain the Royal Irish Regiment three home battalions.

Signatures by party: Conservative 9, UUP 6, DUP 3, Labour 1.