Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea said he would fight for the continued use of Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) to fight crime in the electorate of Davidson.
A ruling from the NSW Administrative Decisions Tribunal has raised doubts about the legality of CCTV installed by local councils.
Last week the Tribunal ruled cameras installed by Shoalhaven City Council breached privacy laws and had to be switched off.
“CCTV is a proven weapon against criminal behaviour. I want to ensure our local council, police and other law enforcement agencies have access to cameras to drive down crime,” Mr O’Dea said.
“While there is a role for privacy laws, this decision flies in the face of the views of most law-abiding citizens who support CCTV and its role to fight crime.
“We have seen in a number of recent high profile cases the invaluable assistance CCTV provides police in tracking down offenders.
“I will be conveying these views to the Attorney General so the situation is resolved as soon as possible,” Mr O’Dea said.
Attorney General Greg Smith SC is seeking urgent legal advice about the implications of the tribunal’s decision and whether legislation is required to validate the continued use of CCTV.
“We are urgently seeking to resolve this situation in the interest of the people of NSW,” Mr Smith said.
