The Government has failed to say when a delayed new CCTV security network will be fully installed.

The Ministry of National Security has also not revealed the full cost of the project, despite questions from The Royal Gazette.

However, a ministry spokesman has provided further details on why the installation of 247 high-tech cameras has been repeatedly hit by delays — blaming a shortage of asphalt, which is needed to embed camera poles.

The $4 million scheme was unveiled last July by Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, who said that the system would be operational before Christmas.

Installation began in September when it was still anticipated that the system would be ready by the year’s end. Mr Weeks repeated that claim in November.

In January, the ministry acknowledged that an April completion date was more likely.

On Tuesday a ministry spokesman said that 150 of the 247 new cameras had been erected, although only 60 were working, with heavy rains last summer causing delays.

He added that installation work would continue throughout next month but did not say when it would be done.

In response to further questions, the spokesman issued a second statement yesterday.

He said it was “important to emphasise that the number of cameras installed does not fully encapsulate the entire scope of the project”.

“The project involves multiple components beyond the mere physical installation of cameras. These include networking, power infrastructure, and integration with the central command centre, which is crucial for the system's operational effectiveness.

“It cannot be overlooked that the project faced unforeseen challenges that have impacted the project's completion timeline. The severe storms last season were a major setback and delayed further installations.

“Furthermore, a critical shortage of asphalt necessary for embedding the camera poles securely on our roads halted many planned installations from mid-December until late February/March.

“These delays were unfortunate but beyond the ministry’s immediate control. Rest assured, the ministry is committed to overcoming these setbacks efficiently. The ongoing work is being closely monitored to expedite the remaining installations.”

An update on progress on the CCTV command centre, now almost complete but requiring specialised training required to operate, is expected soon.