Security cameras had traditionally been too expensive for the average household or office to buy, the managing director of a new camera manufacturing company, Westpark Technologies, said yesterday, following its official opening by the Tanaiste, Ms Harney.

The Dublin-based manufacturer of security cameras began operations last year and has developed a range of security camera products over the past six months.

Mr Derek Goucher, managing director, said three camera products would be introduced shortly and the company expected to employ up to 80 people by the end of the year.

The cameras are aimed at the home, business and transport environments. The Trans-caM, which can be installed at the rear of vehicles, is aimed at reducing insurance claims and accidents. The CradlecaM, a baby/child monitoring system, is an internal colour camera system which is audio activated. "This means that your TV can be set to automatically switch to the CradlecaM channel when your baby/ child starts to cry," Mr Goucher said. The MicrocaM, an external camera system, allows its owners to monitor their homes or office using an existing TV or personal computer