Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Deputy Aylward that every effort should be made at local community level, particularly in rural communities, in the fight against crime and for crime prevention. There are two CCTV schemes, one which is run by communities and one by An Garda Síochána. I understand that the two CCTV schemes in Kilkenny in close proximity to the motorways are important for local communities.

My Department has made €1 million available for the provision of CCTV at the behest of local communities, and working with local communities. Obviously there are a number of conditions but I encourage local communities to become involved. They will need to engage with the local community crime prevention officer, with the data protection controller who is in the local authority, and with the local joint policing committee, and again I acknowledge the importance of the various joint policing committees in the State. I will be happy to speak directly with Deputy Aylward after this session to ensure that information and knowledge is fully available to communities in rural Kilkenny and Carlow so they can benefit from these schemes.

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