The new technology, which includes facial recognition cameras and security lighting, was announced just months before the implementation of long-awaited post-Brexit border arrangements on The Rock.
Authorities in Gibraltar have announced the rollout of new high-tech border infrastructure ahead of implementation of the overseas territory’s Brexit treaty in the summer.
Over one hundred state-of-the-art CCTV cameras will be installed on the Rock, particularly in the area bordering the Campo de Gibraltar region, including cameras with facial recognition technology.
This was announced just months before the overseas territory’s treaty with the European Union formally comes into force, which will remove the physical border fence and integrate Gibraltar into the Schengen area from 15th July.
READ ALSO: Gibraltar border removal delayed as EU backs deal
EU member states have unanimously backed Gibraltar’s long-awaited Brexit deal but the removal of the border at La Línea de la Concepción was delayed by three months.
The rollout was initially supposed to coincide with the end of transition period for the EU’s new Schengen Entry/ Exit system in April but was postponed until summer, with transitionary “bridging” measures continuing until then.
Now authorities on The Rock have further outlined what the deal will mean practically on the ground: the border will be permanently lit and have 26 so-called “security-grade LED” lights covering the perimeter and no blind spots with the aim of allowing border guards to better monitor movement between Gibraltar and Spain.
Physical security measures will also be added with posts featuring anti-climb and anti-vandalism systems.
The new infrastructure was decided upon following technical and security reviews from the Royal Gibraltar Police (RGP).
Notably, CCTV cameras with facial recognition technology capabilities will also be installed.
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Reports in Sur in English suggest that the high-tech cameras could cover the “Joint Agency Facility, the surrounding road network, and vehicle and pedestrian entrances to the Kingsway Tunnel, as well as pedestrian and cycle access points to the runway.”
Gibraltar’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said of the announcement: “This is about keeping Gibraltar safe. We are investing in the very best technology, integrating it with our law enforcement capabilities and doing so in a way that respects our laws and our people”.
“This is about protecting and preserving the Gibraltarian way of life that we all grew up with and we hold so dear, so that our children and future generations have the best of both worlds: a safe, modern city to live and work in, and the opportunities that come with an open border and better relations with our neighbour.
“As we work towards treaty implementation, Gibraltar will continue to be secure, well protected, and will be safer than ever before,” he added.
READ ALSO: 90-day rule, borders and taxes – What the Gibraltar deal means in practice
