NAC denies claims CCTV staff watched Scotland games

A member of the public contacted Ayrshire Weekly Press this week, claiming a message to the CCTV team gave them the go-ahead to keep an eye on Scotland matches while on duty.

And she included a screenshot which seemed to show bosses giving tacit approval for staff to keep tabs on the big Euro matches while at work.

The screenshot of the message allegedly sent to the CCTV team (Image: Contributed)

Our source said: "As former victim of domestic abuse linked to football and alcohol, I would like to register my grave concerns.

"I have raised several issues with North Ayrshire Council and the very serious implications this may have in relation to public safety, not least domestic violence against women. 

"If public space CCTV, and the protection it provides, is operated in such a relaxed manner, then I believe the safety of the public will be at a greater risk as will support for police officers carrying out their duties.

"There is also the issue of a very serious breach of data protection policy by promoting the use of personal devices which will almost have recording ability within a data sensitive area."

(Image: Newsquest)

However, a North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “Any suggestion that staff are being allowed to watch football matches instead of monitoring the CCTV is not true.

“An email was sent to the team reminding them that, along with the rest of the country, whilst there might be an interest in the games being played, the services they provide must remain their priority.

"Mobile phones and other such recording devices are not permitted to be used in the CCTV control room at any time.

“The email sent to the team also contained information in relation to IT policy and procedures about viewing of such content on council devices. This was intended to act as a reminder for staff on breaks, etc.

“It’s important to note that the team also carry out much more than monitoring CCTV, and have other roles and responsibilities during their shift including out-of-hours call handling for the public and other council services, and key holding and distribution.”