CCTV likely for Edenderry

IT’s likely closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) will be introduced to Edenderry next year, following agreement on the issue by councillors and local gardai.

Edenderry councillor Noel Cribbin formally suggested the addition of CCTV in the north Offaly town at a meeting of Edenderry Town Council last night (Wednesdsay).

With agreement from councillors, gardai are now to look at what is needed. They will be invited to bring their findings to the January meeting of Edenderry Town Council, and Cllr Cribbin said it’s hoped arrangements for the system that is estimated to cost something in the region of €20,000 will be in place by the time the council is wrapped up next year.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent Cllr Cribbin said most of the significant bill will be picked up by the council, with any shortfall funded by local organisations. Grant funding from central government for such systems is no longer available.

What’s being proposed is top spec cameras that could pick up car registration numbers on all roads leading into Edenderry. Cameras are also proposed for the town’s Main Street, all of which would be connected to a television screen in Edenderry Garda Station.

Cllr Cribbin said he has spoken to both Superintendent John Moloney and local sergeant Kevin Quinn about the need for CCTV in Edenderry in recent times.

“Both men cannot speak highly enough about the merits of CCTV and the huge help it would be to the local gardai if it was installed in Edenderry,” he said.

Cllr Cribbin said putting in place arrangements for the system would be fitting as one of the council’s last projects.

“I feel strongly that this would be a great asset to the town and a great legacy by the members of the town council both past and present to the people of Edendery, who they have served and represented for over 100 years,” he said.