PLANS are being drawn up to install security cameras in taxis across Inverclyde to protect local cabbies.

The move comes after a string of attacks on drivers — the latest of which took place earlier this week when a man was allegedly robbed after being threatened at knifepoint in Greenock.

Now proposals have drawn up by the council’s head of legal services after a request for action from local taxi operators.

They will be debated at a meeting scheduled to take place next week.

Henry Glasgow, director of Inverclyde Taxis, said he would welcome the move, but expects it to be a lengthy process if the proposals are approved.

He said: “We welcome Inverclyde Council’s initiative in terms of putting forward proposals that would certainly enhance the safety of both passengers and drivers alike.

“We suggested this to the council some years ago and obviously it’s remained a topic that should be looked at.

“It’s the council that is taking this initiative forward, which I am very pleased about.

“It is certainly an initiative that would have our full support.”
Independent councillor Tommy McVey, who works as a taxi driver, also thinks the widespread installation cameras is a good idea.

He said: “I would welcome this.

“It is a big step in the right direction with regard to the protection of drivers and the customers.

“I think it’s the way forward and we are seeing other council’s doing it.

“It would give another level of security and safety.”
Gerard Malone, head of the council’s legal and property services, has compiled the report.

Mr Malone recommends that councillors agree in principal that CCTV cameras be installed and operated within taxis in Inverclyde.

Councillors are also being asked to allow consultations to begin with the Office of the Information Commission, Police Scotland and representatives of the taxi trade to determine the levels of support and record concerns relative to adopting such a policy.

One of the key areas that will require in-depth consultation is how the images would be recorded and stored.

The report states: “Other local authorities allow for the installation and operation of CCTV cameras within taxis under heavily regulated and controlled conditions. 

“Recorded images and/or sound by CCTV cameras fall within the definition of ‘data’ as defined by the Data Protection Act 1998. 

“Those in control of ‘data’ have certain legal obligations to comply with the terms of the Data Protection Act 1998 including, but not limited to, the need to provide annual reporting to the Office of the Information Commissioner.”

If councillors on the general purpose board decide to approve the proposal, it will proceed to a further report and move to a public consultation process.