Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 October 2004
306 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position on the community-based closed circuit television programme; the number of applications received and grants paid; the guidelines for their use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26645/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, it is not, understandably, possible for the Garda Síochána to install CCTV systems in all areas that have sought them. Some applications for Garda CCTV systems relate to relatively small schemes which, while of importance to the local community, cannot be regarded as a national Garda priority.
To this end, a grant-aid scheme has been launched to facilitate community-based groups who wish to press ahead with their own local CCTV system. Grant assistance of up to €100,000 will, subject to the availability of funds, be obtainable from my Department towards the cost of such systems.
A prospectus has been prepared by my Department which provides information on how to apply for grant-aid funding, outlines the application process and identifies the main issues that applicants will need to consider. I am advised that in excess of 200 expressions of interest in this scheme have been received from entities throughout the country.
The code of practice for the operation of the community based CCTV scheme has been drawn up by my Department in co-operation with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. Detailed technical specifications have been drawn up by the Garda Síochána and are currently under consideration by officials in my Department.
I expect that both the code of practice and the technical specifications will be finalised by my Department in the coming weeks. At that stage copies of same will issue to all communities and organisations who have expressed an interest in the community based CCTV scheme. Any applications subsequently received will be evaluated and processed in accordance with the conditions set out in the prospectus.
