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CCTV schemes information

An Garda Síochána is committed to the development of innovative policies aimed at enhancing its quality of service to the public and improving the quality of life of the community. In the drive to reduce the incidence of crime, anti-social behaviour, public disorder, vandalism and the general fear of crime, An Garda Síochána are in favour of CCTV systems as an aid to policing.


There is a demand nationally from community and business groups for CCTV systems in their respective towns and cities. Whilst the use of CCTV by a police service can have great merit, its use can have a direct impact on the human rights of individuals. Therefore, its introduction needs to be carefully planned and its use, competently managed.
In accordance with Section 38 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 Community CCTV schemes must be authorised by the Garda Commissioner. A CCTV advisory committee meets every quarter to examine applications for CCTV projects, place them in appropriate categories and make recommendations relative to prioritisation in accordance with the objective criteria set out in the policy. The committee is appointed by the Garda Commissioner.

Community Schemes as provided for under Section 38 (3) (c) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 and Garda Schemes are provided for under Section 38 (3) (a) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005.


The European Convention on Human Rights Act 2003 which came into force on 31st December, 2003 provides that “every organ of the State shall perform its function in a manner compatible with the State’s obligations under the Convention provisions”. An Garda Síochána is “an organ of the State” for the purposes of the 2003 Act.

Funding of CCTV Schemes:

The Department of Justice and Equality is providing financial assistance to qualifying local organisations towards meeting capital costs associated with the establishment of local community CCTV systems. This Community CCTV Grant Aid scheme will run for three years with funding of €1 million being made available each year. Further information and all documentation in relation to the Scheme can be accessed at the website of the Department of Justice & Equality.