Bundoran is a popular destination for Fermanagh people
Fermanagh holiday-makers are always a considerate sort, but from now on they should be extra-careful how they park when they day-trip to Donegal.
Traffic wardens in the county have been fitted with personal CCTV cameras, the first time the technology has been introduced in Ireland.
The on-body cameras can be activated by the traffic warden if they feel they are in danger. The CCTV footage could then be used in any possible court cases involving traffic wardens and members of the public.
Wardens currently operate in Bundoran, Ballyshannon, Donegal Town, Ballybofey, Letterkenny and Buncrana.
John McLaughlin, Director of Roads and Transportation with Donegal County Council, said the technology is already in use elsewhere in Europe.
“These devices will not be operating on a continuous basis, however, if a traffic warden finds him or herself in a situation that could result in some form of confrontation they can advise the other person or persons that they are turning on the device to record proceedings,” said McLaughlin.
The cameras have been introduced in a bid to stop confrontations between wardens and members.
“Most traffic wardens are working on their own and this device is about ensuring their personal safety while doing their job. We hope that it will not be needed too often, but it is there as a safety precaution.”
McLaughlin was also keen to point out that the Council does not incentivise the issuing of tickets.
“The key performance indicator for traffic wardens is the number of vehicles logged on their patrols, not the number of parking tickets or fines issued.”
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