Two Manx high schools told to stop operating CCTV 'inside' toilets

Information Commissioner issues Urgent Enforcement Notices

The Information Commissioner has warned two high schools on the Island to stop operating surveillance systems ‘inside’ pupils’ toilets/ restrooms with immediate effect.

On 18 March, the authority issued Urgent Enforcement Notices to Ballakermeen High School & Castle Rushen High School.

Both schools were told to comply with that request by 26 March 2024.

Failure to do so can lead to penalties and even contempt proceedings.

In a statement on its website, the Commissioner says both Ballakermeen and Castle Rushen are fully cooperating with the Commissioner.

The subject of CCTV on school premises was discussed by the education minister at a recent Tynwald committee meeting.

Minister Daphne Caine said it was something being considered to deter students from vandalising and vaping in toilet areas.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture has given Manx Radio a statement.

It says: "It was recently determined that two schools on the island were not fully GDPR compliant in relation to their usage of CCTV.

"The matter was raised by the Information Commissioner and both schools worked with DESC to promptly complete and return all necessary documentation.

"The CCTV was installed to improve site security and also to serve as a deterrent against vandalism and inappropriate behaviour.

"In line with the instruction from the Information Commissioner, a proportion of the cameras have been switched off and will not be back in use until approval has been received."