Council liaising with Gardaí over potential CCTV upgrade in Leitrim town

Leitrim County Council is currently liaising with An Garda Síochána over a potential upgrade to Manorhamilton’s existing CCTV scheme, following concerns that outdated technology has been an “ongoing problem for the last 15 years.”

The issue was raised at a meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District, where Cllr Felim Gurn called for the MD to support a request to the Minister for Justice for funding to upgrade the town’s CCTV system.

“This has been an ongoing problem for the last 15 years. Funding is needed as new technology has changed and CCTV is a deterrent to prevent crime in rural areas,” his motion stated.

Cllr Gurn highlighted the importance of up-to-date technology in preventing crime, given the town’s location, and noted that the issue had been raised multiple times without any work being carried out.

He also pointed to a recent nationwide warning from the Gardaí urging people to remain vigilant against home heating oil thefts as winter approaches and fuel costs continue to rise.

The motion received support from councillors present, with Cllr James Gilmartin commenting, “CCTV functioning to current standards would greatly help in addressing some of the criminal activities going on in the area.”

However, Cllr Mitchell raised concerns about the potential lack of public support for cameras in public areas, citing privacy concerns.

The meeting was informed that the use of cameras is tightly controlled by the Data Protection Commission, with a process in place to balance privacy with community safety.

In response to the motion, the Council confirmed that, “Leitrim County Council is currently liaising with An Garda Síochána with regard to the potential upgrade of the existing CCTV scheme in Manorhamilton.”