To the editor:
I would like to clarify my comments about the Eye in the Sky camera program that is currently operating in the city. I did say, “ that the majority of people were willing to give up their rights in public when it comes to the Eye in the Sky camera program.”
What I meant to say was, “ that people are willing to give up their right to privacy when they are in public and on
camera. Safety is the issue whether perceived or real.
I have never heard complaints from any citizens about being on camera when they are in public or the abuse of the camera system in Thunder Bay. I have heard that the cameras should be upgraded and more cameras should be installed. Cameras are used in cities all over the world and in almost every business for good reason. They work. Cameras record events which help assist police, prosecutors, investigators etc. solve crime or other related issues.
Personally, that is good enough reason to keep and expand the program.
The question council is pondering,” is this Eye in the Sky program worth it? How do you measure if a crime is prevented merely by the presence of the cameras? How do we put a value on solving a case quickly with the identification of a criminal on camera? How do we put a cost on the number of hours saved by prosecutors, investigators, judges, etc. when a camera reveals the circumstances of the crime and the identification of the criminal?
Some councillors believe we should be taking the money and investing it in more social programs to help eliminate crime. What if the criminal is from a middle or upper income family? Regardless of how much we invest in trying to improve society, sadly there will always crime and criminals.
I certainly do not mind giving up my right to privacy when I am in public and on camera.
Do you? That is the question we should be asking the public? Contact your councillor and let them know your views whether you agree or not. Carpe diem.
Coun. Aldo Ruberto,
Thunder Bay
