Council to pilot camera 'lollicops' outside schools

HIDDEN cameras are being considered for use by county council school wardens under a scheme to expose bad drivers outside schools in a pilot by two local authorities.

Signs are erected at the approach to schools to inform road users that CCTV is in operation in the area and parents are informed of the campaign, which is only used at problematic sites.

The 'lolli-cops' are to be introduced around schools in Ireland if current trials are successful. Similar schemes in England, Wales and Scotland have proven successful.

Under a new pilot scheme by road safety officers at Mayo and Kildare County Councils, 'lollipop' sticks would be fitted with hidden cameras at several locations across the area.

Despite the regular safety messages issued, there are some motorists who do not respect the law and stop when signaled to do so. The 'lolli-cop' is a great tool at raising awareness amongst drivers of the importance of 'Stop means Stop'.

At the moment, school wardens can only take the registration number of law breaking motorists on paper, which is difficult as they are busy supervising children at the time.

Any video footage may be used to prosecute dangerous and careless driving.

The cameras, which will be moved throughout the county, are activated by the warden and are pointed at the offending car to record the number plate.

The scheme has been launched for the first time in Ireland after a number of incidents in which motorists assaulted crossing patrol staff or ignored their demands to stop.

Under the law, a school warden should be obeyed in the same way as a red traffic light. Failure to stop for a school warden could mean a fine of up to €120 and five penalty points on conviction.

Noel Gibbons, road safety officer, Mayo, said: 'School wardens crossing patrol officers play a vital role in ensuring school children are provided with a safe route to and from school. They should be able to do this without fear of intimidation from inconsiderate motorists.”

The lolli-cop would be placed randomly and discreetly onto the lollipop signs and any disgruntled, impatient or bad-tempered drivers will be caught on film, he added.