Blair praises NI civil servants

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/northern_ireland/6681269.stm

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The "loyalty and dedication" of Ministry of Defence civil servants during the Troubles has been praised by the prime minister.

Tony Blair paid tribute to their support to the armed forces in NI during Operation Banner - the Army's support role for the police.

He said "their commitment was not without sacrifice" and many had been killed or injured.

Mr Blair met a delegation of 20 MoD civilians in Downing Street.

He handed a letter of appreciation of their service to Lieutenant General Nicholas Parker, General Officer Commanding Northern Ireland.

'Fight against terrorism'

Mr Blair said the government was deeply grateful to civil servants "for their outstanding, steadfast and dedicated service".

"As the terrorist threat emerged, civilian staff in Northern Ireland, who overwhelmingly lived in the community, had to take particular care of their personal safety and that of their families," he said on Tuesday.

The loyalty and commitment of these men and women over almost four decades has been remarkable Lieutenant General Nicholas Parker

"They had to avoid talking about where they worked and for whom they worked, their children had to be taught to say what their parents did, and there was the constant threat of attack both in their workplaces and at home.

"Despite this, civilian employees from both sides of the community continued to support the fight against terrorism."

He added: "I know that security normalisation will significantly reduce the numbers working for the Armed Forces and that this brings further challenges.

"However, I am confident that recent events in Northern Ireland will lead to a more prosperous and happier Northern Ireland at peace with itself."

Lt Gen Nicholas Parker said he was delighted that "the hard work and dedication of the MoD Civil Service has been recognised in this way".

"The loyalty and commitment of these men and women over almost four decades has been remarkable," he said.