As the Deputy is aware, Kilkenny is one of 17 locations are 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, Finglas, Galway, Limerick, Sligo, Tallaght and Waterford.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that when the go-ahead was given to proceed with the installation of the above 17 town centre CCTV systems, it was decided that the implementation of the CCTV systems in these locations would proceed on a phased basis. Phase 1 of the scheme comprises Bray, Dundalk, Dún Laoghaire, Finglas, Galway and Limerick. The contract for the supply, installation and commissioning of Garda CCTV systems for these locations was awarded to SKS Communications Limited and work on the implementation of these systems is on-going at present. Phase 2 of the scheme comprises Athlone, Clondalkin, Tallaght and Waterford. The pre-tender process for these systems is at an advanced stage. Phase 3 of the scheme comprises Ballyfermot, Carlow, Castlebar, Clonmel, Ennis, Kilkenny and Sligo. The planning for the installation of these is scheduled to commence later this year. Until the planning for the CCTV system has been completed it is not possible to ascertain how much the system in Kilkenny will cost. However, it has been the experience of the Garda authorities that the cost of an efficient and effective CCTV camera is, on average, €25,000 to €30,000 per camera excluding associated civil works.
