Garda bosses want public’s view on the force using live CCTV run by third parties

An Garda Síochána, Ireland's national police force, has initiated a public consultation regarding a new code of practice that could allow the force to utilize live CCTV feeds provided by third parties. This move aims to bolster efforts in tackling crime by potentially monitoring footage from private security cameras.

The Gardaí are actively seeking feedback from the public, the Minister for Justice, and various representative bodies on this proposed practice. A "third-party live CCTV feed" refers to footage captured by a controller separate from the police but supplied to them for monitoring purposes. Ireland already sees widespread use of security cameras, and there is a growing demand for access to these private systems to address a range of offenses, including drug-related crimes, vehicle and property offenses, and public order disturbances.

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these feeds could prove invaluable in the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences

While acknowledging the potential merits of using such feeds, the Gardaí also recognize the significant impact they could have on the human rights of individuals. The public consultation on the draft code of practice is set to conclude on September 14th. In addition to public opinion, the Garda Commissioner is mandated to consult with the Minister for Justice, the Policing and Community Safety Authority, the police ombudsman Fiosrú, the Data Protection Commission, and the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission.

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This new draft code of practice allows An Garda Síochána to continue supporting communities through the use of CCTV technology

Deputy Garda Commissioner Paul Cleary stated that these feeds could "prove invaluable in the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences." He emphasized that the new draft code of practice would enable An Garda Síochána to continue supporting communities through the effective use of CCTV technology. The public's input is considered crucial in shaping how the Gardaí interact with third-party live CCTV systems, ensuring a community-focused policing service.

A human rights impact assessment has already been completed, and a data protection impact assessment will be conducted before the code of practice can be formally considered by the Minister for Justice for publication as a statutory instrument. This thorough process aims to balance the benefits of enhanced surveillance with the protection of individual rights and privacy.

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The public’s views on how An Garda Síochána interacts with third-party live CCTV feeds systems will help us to continue to provide a community-focused policing service.