Government invites private partnerships in CCTV Project

One of the CCTV cameras mounted in Basseterre (file photo)

St. Kitts, October 23, 2010 (SKNIS): The Republic of China (Taiwan) has been credited for its invaluable contribution in the fight against crime in St. Kitts and Nevis.

The longstanding ally has contributed significant funding and technical expertise to the Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) camera project designed to deter and detect antisocial activities. Cameras have been mounted in Charlestown, Nevis while additional ones are currently being installed in Basseterre, St. Kitts.

Dr. Norgen Wilson, Special Advisor in the Ministry of National Security, told SKNIS that Taiwan has been very supportive and the Government was very appreciative of its continued assistance. He noted that there is an opportunity for local companies and individuals to contribute to this project.

“We have capabilities of bringing on additional cameras not only in the public areas but in the private areas and so we would want to partner with more private [entities] so that we can provide better security for the Federation,” Dr. Wilson remarked.

A number of residents have saluted the move by the Government to implement the safety measure which is used in many developed countries.

Spencer called the process “absolutely critical” and said it was “a welcomed sight” to see CCTV cameras being installed. “Anything that can be done to help with the interdiction process and helping the security forces to apprehend those in the society who are bent on wrong doing is good,” he added.

Gloria emphasized the fact that the cameras should act as a deterrent to persons considering an antisocial act. “Since they know they are being watched and the Police can use the pictures to charge them, then they probably would think twice before doing anything wrong,” she stated.