CCTV schemes needed across county

COMMUNITY CCTV schemes are needed in many towns around Wicklow to assist with the reduction of anti-social behaviour and the deterrence of crime.

According to Fianna Fáil TD Pat Casey, towns such as Baltinglass, Wicklow and Greystones are in need of CCTV schemes similar to that secured for Arklow in recent days.

The Arklow Town Team committee suc- cessfully secured €40,000 in Department of Justice funding to install 11 cameras throughout the town centre and Deputy Casey said that this should be rolled out to other areas in need.

‘Community-based CCTV schemes have put criminals on the back foot and have made communities feel safer. It’s important that the roll-out of the scheme continues in other towns such as Wicklow, Greystones and Baltinglass and that they receive our support,’ he said.

He said that there is significant evidence that CCTV is beneficial in reducing crime rates.

‘CCTV schemes have been a game changer in helping prevent crime. Senior Gardaí have also outlined how CCTV schemes have aided policing and helped tackle roaming burglary gangs, he said.