There are no official statistics on the number of cameras installed across Cyprus by public services, local authorities or other organisations, as there is no legal requirement to maintain such records, the Office of the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection told MPs.
During discussion on Friday at the House Finance Committee on the Office’s budget, it was also mentioned that the installation of cameras in schools is carried out only following a decision by the Ministry of Education’s Technical Services, and after consultation with the Commissioner’s Office. These cameras are installed only within the school premises and only operate after school hours.
In response to questions from MPs Savia Orphanidou (DISY) and Aristos Damianou (AKEL) regarding the installation of cameras in schools and sports venues, it was clarified that installations in schools are carried out only after the Ministry’s technical services deem it necessary. As for sports venues, it was noted that no requests have so far been submitted by the competent authorities to the Commissioner’s Office for an impact assessment, which is a prerequisite for obtaining approval for such installations.
The Commissioner’s Office receives data protection impact assessment (DPIA) applications from public bodies, services, and organisations seeking to install cameras and provides feedback on these applications, MPs heard. However, not all organisations submit such requests, and even if they do and are given the green light, there is no obligation for them to let the Commissioner’s Office know whether the cameras were actually installed.
As a result, the Commissioner’s Office confirmed that there are no available statistics on the number of cameras installed in Cyprus by public bodies, local authorities, or other organisations, as there is no obligation to keep such records.
CNA