§ Lembit ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the operation of CCTV cameras in the Short Strand area of East Belfast; and if he will make a statement. [68928]
§ Jane KennedyCCTV cameras in the Short Strand area are the sole responsibility of PSNI. However, I believe there is a great deal of potential with CCTV and have been monitoring their use. The Police Service has
507Wadvised that since 12 May, these cameras have identified some 22 people of being involved in street violence; leading to 11 arrests, with more pending.
On a disappointing note, there have been regrettable incidents involving individuals damaging the CCTV cameras, even though they have been installed to enhance the public safety of all. I would call on everyone with any influence to do all they can to bring these attacks to an end.