Cork TD calls for extra funding for CCTV across towns

A Cork TD has called for substantial funding to be allocated under the national development plan (NDP) for the expansion of public CCTV systems across towns and cities.

Séamus McGrath, Fianna Fáil TD for Cork South Central, had asked justice minister Jim O’Callaghan in the Dáil whether he would allocate additional funding to local authorities for the rollout of public CCTV systems nationally.

Mr O’Callaghan replied that, since 2017, his department had administered a grant-aid scheme supporting groups wishing to establish a community-based CCTV system in their area.

“To date, grants totalling over €950,000 have been approved for 36 community CCTV schemes across the country,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

“A further €1m in funding was made available towards the development of community-based CCTV schemes in 2025.”

The minister added that the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023, which was signed into law in December 2023, provided new rules covering the authorisation and operation of CCTV schemes.

Mr O’Callaghan said he was advised that, as required under the act, garda authorities were working on a new code of practice and on a new Garda CCTV strategy.

“It is hoped that implementation of a modernised CCTV platform for An Garda Síochána can commence in 2026, subject to funding through the national development plan,” he added.

Speaking to The Echo, Mr McGrath said there had been a considerable wait for the new legislation.

“Now that it is in place, it is vital that we put substantial funding in place to roll out additional CCTV systems in cities and towns to assist An Garda Síochána with their work, and to act as a deterrent against crime and antisocial behaviour issues,” he said.

“The NDP provides an opportunity to put the required funding in place, and I’ve been raising this issue with the minister for public expenditure.”