The Council's CCTV cameras are no longer operating in Enniskillen, The Impartial Reporter can reveal. 

The decision by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council was detailed in a statement, which outlined that "CCTV in Enniskillen is no longer operating due to a financial deficit".

The statement added: "Options for future delivery are being considered.

"The Council's position in relation to future financial support for the provision of public space CCTV in Enniskillen was resolved following consideration of the matter at a Council Committee [meeting] in October, 2023."

A follow-up query to the Council asked if safety concerns around switching off CCTV cameras had been considered.

In response, a Council spokesperson said: "Matters relating to public safety are the remit of the PSNI."

Safety concerns have been raised following the revelation. Kerri McCanny, from Pat's Bar, said public CCTV footage has aided emergency services when attending night-time incidents. 

"This raises concerns about the safety of customers and patrons," she said. "There have been incidents where emergency services have been called because of the CCTV cameras in Enniskillen.

"I don't feel it's the right move. Police resources are stretched as it is."

Nicky Cassidy, from The Crowes Nest, said that as a tourist town, Enniskillen should have CCTV cameras.

"It's going to be bad for the town in general if there is no CCTV. This is a tourist town, and the CCTV keeps the public safe."

Mark Edwards, from Blakes of The Hollow, said CCTV cameras provide a sense of safety for publicans and revellers alike.

"From the point of view of having CCTV, it leaves us, and any business in the town, safer," Mr. Edwards said.

"It's an addition to the town, and from a security point of view, many will feel more vulnerable at night without it."

Meanwhile, resident Bryan Gallagher said switching off CCTV coverage in his home town of Enniskillen was "madness".

"Put simply, it's madness to switch them off," said Mr. Gallagher. "Having cameras in operation puts people at ease.

"I don't have much to say, other than poor Fermanagh! We haven't got a railway or good roads, and now we have no CCTV!"

Ulster Unionist Councillor Roy Crawford voiced his "disappointment" following the Council's decision.

He said: “I’m disappointed that the funding allocated to the operation of Council CCTV [cameras] from a policing partnership is no longer there.

"Ultimately, the Council cannot meet the required funding to fulfil this," added Councillor Crawford.

"I would hope in future that money can be found, and this service reinstated.”