Ballaghaderreen launches community CCTV project to boost safety and security

A MAJOR milestone in public safety has been achieved in Ballaghaderreen with the successful completion of a community-led CCTV project that has already assisted gardaí investigating multiple incidents.

The project was initiated, funded, and closely monitored by the Ballaghaderreen Town Team, who worked in collaboration with ETI Security Systems Limited and local stakeholders to enhance safety across the town.

The project began in September 2024 with a comprehensive survey of existing CCTV systems. All business premises with public-facing cameras were contacted, and their systems assessed for functionality.

Operational cameras were networked and connected to a secure cloud server. Where cameras were not working, Town Team funding was used to replace or upgrade equipment.

Additionally, several key locations with smaller CCTV systems were enhanced with new cameras to improve coverage.

In total, 26 cameras were installed across 15 strategic locations, all feeding into a large, secure cloud-based server. The system was delivered for €41,087, offering excellent value for the town.

Footage from the system is not live-monitored. It can only be accessed by An Garda Síochána using a valid Pulse ID as part of an active investigation.

ETI Security Systems Limited acts as the data processor, assisting gardaí with accessing and reviewing footage when required.

“The new CCTV system has been a game changer for policing Ballaghaderreen,” commented a local garda.

Since its launch, the system has already contributed to investigations involving:

• Burglary

• Assault

• Criminal damage

• Traffic collisions

• Recovery of lost property

All aspects of the system are fully GDPR compliant and adhere to the Data Protection Act.

While the project has made significant progress, there remain some areas where it would be beneficial to extend coverage to further enhance safety across the town. The Town Team is continuing to work on the project, with further improvements planned in the coming months.

This project is a strong example of community collaboration, led by the Town Team and supported by local businesses who agreed to network and upgrade their own CCTV systems.

By doing so, they are now protecting not only their premises but the wider community. What was once a time-consuming process for gardaí - visiting multiple premises to retrieve footage - is now a streamlined, centralised solution with clear, accessible video evidence.