Town of Paradise Responds to Privacy Commissioner Report (P-2018-003)

The Town of Paradise yesterday (April 17, 2018) responded to the Information and Privacy Commissioner on report P-2018-003 which recommended that the Town cease its video surveillance system. In its response, the Town notified the Commissioner that it would be applying to the Supreme Court Newfoundland and Labrador Trial Division for a declaration that it is not required to comply with the recommendation in the report.

 

The safety and security of all employees and visitors and the protection of Town assets are of utmost importance to the Town of Paradise. The Town is committed to taking all necessary steps to keep those who work for the Town, use its facilities, and visit the Town safe and protect all Town assets including facilities, vehicles, and equipment. As such, the Town firmly believes that a video surveillance system is an integral part of its security measures and must remain operational. 

 

The video surveillance system for Town-owned and operated facilities was implemented to improve the security and safety of Town operations. Prior to the installation of the system, the Town experienced an increase in incidents around its facilities, including property damage and theft, false activation of fire alarms, vandalism, and a bomb threat. The Town wanted to ensure it was doing all it could to keep employees and facility users safe and assets secure. 

 

The Town developed a progressive and comprehensive Video Surveillance Policy which was approved at a public council meeting before the surveillance system was activated. It outlines the purpose of the system, the areas for surveillance, the authorized users who can access the video, and the archiving requirements of the video. The Town feels the policy is thorough and compliant with the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (ATIPPA). A link to the complete policy is attached below. 

 

The Town notified all employees about the video surveillance system prior to its installation and activation. The cameras are installed in open / public areas and staff access only areas of Town facilities; there are no cameras installed or operational in any washrooms, change areas or lunchrooms. In addition, the Town has posted signage in all public areas subject to the system to notify that the area is under video surveillance. 

 

The Town of Paradise believes a video surveillance system guided by a comprehensive policy which conforms to applicable laws and regulations is an essential security measure. The video surveillance is an integral part of securing assets and protecting Town employees from those who may damage Town property, threaten employees, or undertake other inappropriate / illegal actions or behaviours.

 

The Town of Paradise made sincere efforts to work with the Privacy and Information Commissioner to resolve the matter before the required response date, however, a resolution could not be reached. The Town is willing to continue to work with the Commissioner to resolve the matter but it will keep its video surveillance system operational for the safety and security of employees and facility users and to protect Town assets.