A Northern Ireland council has refused to disclose details of how its CCTV operations are monitored despite “grave concerns” raised following their handover to the local authority.

CityWatchNI had monitored CCTV in Lisburn, Moira, and Hillsborough public areas for over 25 years before being liquidated in July and a transfer of assets made to Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council.

However, councillors have now raised concerns over the extent of monitoring of the camera system now located in Lagan Valley Island civic centre.

Alderman Paul Porter said: “Knowing what I know, I do have grave concerns about the CCTV monitoring.

Alderman Paul Porter has raised grave concerns over CCTV monitoring by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council. Pic credit: McAuley Multimedia

placeholder image — Alderman Paul Porter has raised grave concerns over CCTV monitoring by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council. Pic credit: McAuley Multimedia

“As a result that is why I raised these matters in council and asked to discuss in confidential session due to the sensitivities involved.

“I did say in chambers that I had serious concerns over this whole issue and I understand there are legacy council issues and I welcome the council taking this CCTV over.

“However, there needs to be more clarity on when the cameras are both recording and monitored to give the public confidence, the council needs to be open and transparent in regards to these issues.

“I have continued to address my concerns to the council following the chamber meeting and I would ask that they be addressed as a matter of urgency.”

CEO David Burns said: "In terms of the amount of recording and monitoring that we are doing it is more than has ever happened in CityWatch in the past while, just to give you assurance that cameras are being monitored.”

Councillor Gary Hynds added: “After concerns were raised with me by members of the public, I contacted the council and was advised by a director that the previous part-time in-person surveillance by CityWatch operatives has not yet been replicated due to infrastructure issues.

“I subsequently raised this directly in the chamber and was told that CCTV monitoring was continuing.

“I believe clear clarification is now required about exactly what live, in-person monitoring is currently taking place, if any. Recording and live monitoring are not the same thing.

“Live monitoring is an important part of a proactive approach to crime prevention and deterrence, as well as supporting the PSNI.

“We must get this right, and getting effective live monitoring in place needs to be an urgent priority.”

The LDRS contacted the council for clarity on the matter with the local authority alluding to a risk-based approach to CCTV monitoring.

A spokesperson said: “Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council has maintained CCTV monitoring services following the transfer of CityWatch assets to the council.

“The CCTV monitors are located at Lagan Valley Island. The council manages a risk-based approach to CCTV monitoring on a 24/7 basis.

“Operational details relating to monitoring arrangements are not disclosed due to their connection to crime prevention and anti-social behaviour activities.

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“No public realm cameras or cameras located on council estates have been decommissioned and CCTV coverage remains in place across the existing network.

“All appropriate governance processes have been undertaken in relation to the transfer and operation of the service.

“Following the winding up of CityWatch, the council has remained committed to maintaining CCTV services and will continue to brief elected members as required.

“The current CCTV monitoring arrangements are funded from within existing agreed revenue budgets.”