Armagh security alert becoming an unfortunate norm

Ulster Unionist MLA for Newry and Armagh Danny Kennedy has expressed concern at an ongoing security alert in Armagh.

"Once again we have a situation where innocent people are being driven from their homes in the face of a security alert.

"What makes this so disappointing is the fact that it has almost become a 'norm' in the Newry and Armagh area in recent weeks and months. We had hoped those days were behind us, but clearly there are those within our community who do not wish peace to prevail.

"I can only hope that, now we have agreed to devolve policing and justice powers, that the paralysis which has afflicted our Executive to date will not be carried over into such a sensitive and potentially dangerous area.

"Policing is too important for there to be weakness at the top of the system," the UUP deputy leader said.

"I offer my sympathies to those affected by today's alert, and hope that anyone with information will come forward. This is the only way that we can stop dissidents in their tracks - by working together as a community, and sending out a message that their agenda has no place in Northern Ireland."