There are just over 200 CCTV cameras in Dublin operated by An Garda Síochána, making it one of the least surveilled capital cities in Europe.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin Bay South James Geoghan said anecdotal evidence indicates that increasing the number of surveillance cameras brings down levels of crime and anti-social behaviour.

“The reason I asked these questions of the Minister was because of the engagements I’ve had with businesses, particularly in the city centre where, for example, they’ll identify on big event days, you actually have additional CCTV cameras,” he told Newstalk Breakfast.

“So, let’s say the Europa League final that took place in Dublin not too long ago - right in the heart of the city centre, in parts of Temple Bar, there was additional numbers of CCTV cameras.

“What businesses would say to me there is, well actually, incidents of shoplifting, incidents of antisocial behaviour, reduced.

“Even I, to be honest with you, was surprised with how low the numbers were.”

CCTV control room for Birmingham City Centre. Image: David Warren / Alamy. 13 September 2011

Deputy Geoghan said that while additional Gardaí on the street during these events are likely also a factor in reduced crime rates, the force should still be supported with the technology that is available.

“If we compare it to, let’s say just across the sea, I mean in London the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham has one for every 73 people – we've got one CCTV camera for every 6,000 people,” he said.

“If you look at the city of Westminster, it has one for every 1,000 people.”

According to Deputy Geoghan, although Gardaí can often avail of private security footage, operations can grind to a halt if businesses do not voluntarily offer up recordings.

Main image: Security CCTV surveillance cameras, 19-5-15. Image: Brian Jackson / Alamy