Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Committee note the developments to date;

(b)       That the Committee specifically has regard to the contribution made by the “OWL” Online Watch Link to increasing public confidence in the Police; the reduction in the fear of crime and heightened levels of awareness of vigilance; and

(c)       That having regard to (2) above, that representation be made to the Police & Crime Commissioner for reinstatement of OWL funding.

The Head of Development and Resources introduced a report to provide an update on the implementation of the recommendations submitted to and approved by the Executive early in 2006, regarding the review of measures taken to reduce and/or prevent arson, vandalism and burglaries to Flintshire schools.

The Head of Development and Resources commented on the progress which had been made in implementing a number of measures in consultation with the School Security Group and schools.  He referred to training for Caretakers, the work undertaken to develop and formalise a multi-agency approach, Flintshire Neighbourhood Watch, “OWL” (Online Watch Link) communication system, School/Cocoon Watch, and the Y-Factor Youth Programme. 

Councillor Ian Dunbar spoke in support of the OWL communication system and the positive response from the general public in terms of assisting crime prevention in local schools.  He referred to Welsh Government (WG) funding for CCTV systems and expressed disappointment regarding the recent unsuccessful bids which had been made by some schools.  He commented on the police support for CCTV security systems in schools which assisted in crime prevention.  The Head of Development and Resources explained that there had been a number of successful bids made by schools during recent years, however, applications for funding were becoming increasingly competitive and there was less funding available from the WG for such bids than there had been previously.

Councillor Amanda Bragg reported that the Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales had reduced funding for the “OWL” system for next year and suggested that the Committee may wish to write to Winston Roddick, QC, Police and Crime Commissioner, to make representation for the previous level of funding to the “OWL” service to be reinstated in recognition of its success.

During discussion the Head of Development and Resources provided further information to Mrs. Rebecca Stark around the “Teen Messaging”  scheme and agreed to provide figures to her for the previous year in relation to burglary costs in schools.  

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Committee note the developments to date;

(b)       That the Committee specifically has regard to the contribution made by the “OWL” Online Watch Link to increasing public confidence in the Police; the reduction in the fear of crime and heightened levels of awareness of vigilance; and

(c)       That having regard to (2) above, that representation be made to the Police & Crime Commissioner for reinstatement of OWL funding.