Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 May 2003

Vol. 567 No. 5

Written Answers. - Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Pat Carey

Question:

387 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if provision has been made in the Estimates for 2003 for the provision of a closed circuit television system in Finglas, Dublin 11; if so, when the cameras will be installed; if the examination by the advisory body on closed circuit television has made a recommendation to him regarding the provision of additional cameras funded by other agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14406/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Finglas is one of 17 locations set to receive new Garda CCTV systems over the next two years, subject to the availability of funds. The other locations, in alphabetical order, are: Athlone, Ballyfermot, Bray, Carlow, Castlebar, Clondalkin, Clonmel, Dundalk, Dún Laoghaire, Ennis, Galway, Limerick, Kilkenny, Sligo, Tallaght and Waterford.

The contract for the supply and installation of a CCTV system for Finglas was awarded in 2002. It was intended that the system would consist of nine cameras – to be monitored from Finglas Garda station. An offer has, however, been made from statutory and other bodies to fund additional cameras for incorporation in the Finglas scheme. This offer has been referred to the advisory committee established by the Garda Commissioner to evaluate applications for CCTV systems and is currently under consideration. Upon receipt of the committee's views, I expect to be in a position to decide on this matter.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that as a consequence of the refurbishment works required at Finglas Garda station to facilitate the installation of the CCTV monitoring room and associated equipment the installation of the CCTV system has been delayed by some months. Provision of the additional accommodation is expected to be in place within the next number of weeks and refurbishment of the CCTV area is expected to follow. The installation of the CCTV system in Finglas should proceed immediately following completion of the structural works at the station, granting of the required way-leaves and the completion of the planning process.