Government considers CCTV on all buses used by students

Nicosia, Cyprus. The government is considering CCTV systems on all buses used by students as a permanent response to delinquent behaviour on school routes, Transport Minister Evie Tsolaki said on Monday.

Installation plans

The proposal was discussed at a meeting on Monday attended by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou, House transport committee chairman Sotiris Ioannou, personal data commissioner Maria Christofidou and federation of parents’ associations head Loizos Constantinou.

Tsolaki said the transport ministry would examine the timetable for tenders, technical specifications and costs, which the ministry would cover. Until cameras are installed, interim measures would include escorts and attendants, including parents, on buses to help prevent delinquent behaviour.

Footage and complaints

Tsolaki said footage would be used when an incident occurs, in accordance with the personal data commissioner’s guidelines. Following a complaint, an authorised representative of the contractor would give the footage to police for investigation.

Asked about parents who do not want their children recorded, Tsolaki said they would be informed about the security system and could decide whether to use the transport.

Michaelidou said the aim was to address isolated incidents without targeting all students. She described cameras as vital to security on public transport and said the government was investing considerably in school routes.

If a complaint is received, parents and the school will be notified. Depending on the case, parents may be required to pay for any damage, Michaelidou said.