GDPR concerns over hidden cameras at MUA survey site

Thu, 07 Sep 2023

The Manx Utilities Authority (MUA) released images on its social media pages of its virtual mast device (SODAR) that will monitor wind speed and background noise for 12 months at Earystane.

Earystane is one of the proposed areas for an onshore wind farm by the MUA. The SODAR device will move to the Sulby and Druidale location once it has recorded its findings.  

Local residents, already outraged by the propsals, are now concerned by the constant beeping the monitoring device is making (see video below). Residents also highlighted their concerns the device would have on wildlife in the surrounding area.

Another resident noticed a concealed camera that had been placed by the MUA in one of the trees in area.

The camera faced the equipment and was situated next to a memorial bench on the Earystane Wardens Walk.  

There was no signage near the camera, which is against the Islands Data Protection Laws as ‘individuals must be informed when they are in an area where CCTV surveillance is being undertaken’ and since has been reported to the data controller at the MUA.

MUA responded on social media claiming that the camera didn’t have any batteries in it. The camera has since disappeared. 

Residents claim that there are other cameras in the area. 

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Videos

• MUA Survey Site

Photos