Worksheet Validation messages

[LAF]

We have a sheet in our tool that has over 20 different columns of data, where the user can enter data in rows 3 through 65,536. We've created code to display a cell validation message based on what column you're in using the Worksheet_SelectionChange event. However, it has caused a problem with one of the basic functions users do with the sheet. That is they are no longer able to paste data to cells on this sheet. Also, if I select a cell in that sheet and try to paste it to another, it doesn't allow me to. The minute I select another cell on the sheet, the paste option is grayed out (disabled). The worksheet is protected because we don't want the users to change anything like formulas. Therefore, in the code before adding the validation message, we unprotect the sheet and then protect it. We were considering adding the validation messages manually to every cell for every row, but that would increase the size of the file and also if someone copied from another sheet to that one, it would wipe out the validation message.
Does anyone have any other options for us?

[TMS]

The problem is that running a macro (any macro) will clear the clipboard ... hence the reason the paste option is greyed out.

Why do the users need a message? Don't they know where they are inputting? If that's the case, why not freeze the heading row(s) and possibly the left hand column(s) so they can cross-refer their position.

With regard to protecting the sheet, you could just unlock the cells where the users are allowed to inut data. Lose the Selection Change event and you'll be able to copy and paste.

Regards

[LAF]

We need to make our tools compliant so if someone is visually impaired, then a screen reader could read the message. We do have the cells unlocked where they are allowed to input data, but you have to protect the sheet in order to make the locked and unlocked cells be effective.