Call for CCTV to tackle anti-social behaviour in Mayo estates

A CASTLEBAR councillor wants to see CCTV installed in housing estates where anti-social behaviour is a problem.

Councillor Harry Barrett tabled a notice of motion on the matter at the monthly Castlebar Municipal District meeting where he called on the council to engage with approved housing bodies, the gardaí and local residents to progress the installation of cameras in affected estates.

The proposals, he said, should be progressed through the council's policing forum, and in full compliance with legal and data protection requirements.

Anti-social behaviour is perpetrated by a small minority, said Councillor Barrett, but it has a devastating impact, with windows broken, walls spray-painted, and people intimidated.

The issues are sporadic, but it takes too long to deal with these people, and with up to date information and recordings it could be sped up, he said.

A member of the council's housing committee, Councillor Michael Kilcoyne supported his views but shared the red tape they had encountered in introducing an anti-social behaviour policy.

A draft plan had gone to the director of housing, with a memo coming back that they have to consult with three different organisations before it goes before the full council for approval.

“The amount of red tape is just unbelievable,” he commented.

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