Question:
706 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which an estate (details supplied) can apply for a community closed circuit television system. [26789/01]
Written Answers. - Closed Circuit Television Systems.
I am conscious that some applications for Garda CCTV systems that have been received by the advisory committee established by the Commissioner relate to relatively small schemes which, while of importance to the local community, cannot be regarded as a national Garda priority. I have given careful consideration to how assistance can be provided to areas which are not rated as a high level Garda priority. To this end, I plan to introduce a grant scheme soon to cater for those communities who would like to press ahead on their own with a local CCTV system. While it will be up to local interests to install and monitor the schemes, grant assistance will be provided.
To qualify for grant aid, certain minimum standards will have to be met and the Gardaí will have to be allowed access to the system when and as they require it. Local authorities will also have an important role to play. The details of this new scheme are currently being finalised and full details of the scheme including relevant conditions and grant levels will be announced soon. It will be open to the estate referred to by Deputy Upton to consider applying for a community-based CCTV system under this new scheme.