Gerry Reynolds
Question:953 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cities and towns which have closed circuit television; and the towns to which this service will be extended in 2002. [1706/02]
Written Answers. - Closed Circuit Television Systems.
I am assuming that the Deputy is inquiring as to the cities and towns where Garda CCTV systems have been installed to date, and where it is planned to install other systems in the future. Garda CCTV systems are currently in operation in the following areas: Dublin North Central, O'Connell Street, and its surrounding areas; Dublin South Central, Grafton Street, and its surrounding areas; and Tralee, County Kerry. A Garda CCTV system is currently being completed in Cork city and I understand in this regard that most of the cameras in the system are now fully operational.
I announced late in 2000 that the number of Garda CCTV systems were to be extended. As part of the first tranche of this expansion, CCTV systems are to be installed in the following areas: Athlone, Bray, Clondalkin, Dundalk, Dún Laoghaire, Finglas, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Tallaght. It is anticipated that these ten CCTV systems will be installed by the end of 2002. At least a further six areas will commence in 2003 and they will be announced in due course.
I am also conscious that some applications for CCTV systems which have been received by the advisory committee, established by the commissioner to evaluate CCTV applications, 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 the local interests to install and monitor the CCTV schemes, grant assistance will be provided. To qualify for grant aid, certain minimum standards will have to be met and the Garda will have to be allowed access to the system when and as they require it. Local authorities will 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.