operation by the end of next month.

Although the system of 30 cameras, linked to a central Police control room, were installed last year, they could not be switched on until legislators drafted operational guidelines.

But yesterday a Government spokesman confirmed the procedure had been completed and approved by Government.

Police officers who will monitor the system have also been selected and will begin training in the next few days.

And that means the system should be given the green light within the next few weeks.

Acting Public Safety Minister Renee Webb was briefed by civil servants about the $1.25 million crime-fighting initiative yesterday afternoon.

Following the meeting, a Government spokesman confirmed that a switch-on day was imminent.

"The use of CCTV as set up in the city of Hamilton has been approved by Government,'' the spokesman said. "There is a code of practice governing the use of CCTV and this has been approved by Government also, with a proviso that consultation will be sought from other stakeholders, for example the Bar Association.

"The Attorney General will then consider whether or not it is appropriate to enshrine this code in legislation. This is not essential but it may be considered the best course of action and will not slow up the process.

"The system is now mechanically and electrically functional, but not in actual use apart from in practice mode.

"Officers have been identified to manage the system and courses of training will be beginning shortly.'' The spokesman added that Government will be running a public awareness campaign shortly to reassure public concerns over "Big Brother'' Police tactics.

And the system will also be reviewed in 12 months to see how effective the cameras are in deterring criminals.

Last night Shadow Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley welcomed the news, but was still critical of Government for not getting the system in operation earlier.

"If there is a light at the end of the tunnel, then I'm very pleased that that's the case -- albeit it has taken time,'' he said.

"But I believe that had we been here earlier, we would have already seen the positive effect this will have in fighting crime.

"I understand that due diligence has to take place, but it would seem that it has taken a little too long.''