The first people to graduate from the Police Service's closed circuit television operators course received certificates last week.

A total of 14 officers and reserves completed the course in how to operate the CCTV system and learn the code of conduct for operators.

Public Safety Minister Paula Cox handed out certificates to 11 of the graduates present at Police Headquarters.

Three regular Police officers and six reserves have been authorised to act as trainers for the system.

Ms Cox said: "Today is clearly a red letter day. The CCTV system is something to be proud of. It is not Big Brother invading (privacy) but Big Brother watching over you.'' She added: "We have a caring Police Service and Reserves and we are doing all that we can to assure you of your safety.'' The officers learned not only to operate the system, but also privacy laws, human rights laws, operational procedures, and maintaining the integrity of the system.

Acting Police Commissioner Vic Richmond said the graduates had become highly skilled in operating the system during the two-week course.

Corporation of Hamilton secretary Roger Sherratt said he had recently seen a similar CCTV system in operation in the UK and was pleased with its role in monitoring the streets.

Mr. Sherratt even related a story of an elderly woman whose walk home evenings would be monitored and would wave to a camera as she entered her home.

He added: "We have one of the best CCTV systems in the world from what I have seen.'' "Government wanted to make sure that the officers are properly trained,'' Mr.

Sherratt said. "It is very important that the operator prepare in the best way with the right code of conduct.'' The Corporation is also willing to extend the CCTV system's coverage into north Hamilton, Mr. Sherratt said, adding that some business people and residents have approached city officials.

The 11 officers who received their certificates yesterday were: Laurie Wade, Juliana Swan, Sandra Easton, Tracy Brangman, Jane Smth, Todd Martin, Mark Floyd, Nena Virgil, Sandra Mitchell, Richard Austin, and George Babb.

First group: The first graduates of the closed circuit television operators course posed with Public Safety Minister Paula Cox (centre) and their instructors.