A new reality: the VVM checks with a camera - does this change the rules of the game?

The State Food and Veterinary Service (SFVS) is streamlining its operations and integrating advanced technological solutions into its daily procedures for surveillance, control and service delivery. The new generation of video and sound recording cameras purchased are used by the VVS specialists to carry out state controls throughout the country, including at border veterinary posts. This practice is also used by other supervisory authorities, such as the State Labour Inspectorate or the Department of Environmental Protection, to strengthen the prevention of corruption, ensure full transparency of processes and the effectiveness of detection and investigation of irregularities.

Transparency and security – top priorities

Video and audio recorders are used in inspections of economic operators, administrative proceedings and other procedural actions. Given that inspectors are often working under more stressful conditions, such as animal cruelty investigations or strict border controls, this modern tool helps to detect threats in time and de-escalate conflicts. The footage captured then serves as irrefutable evidence in the assessment of facts during investigations or in legal proceedings; it not only eliminates the likelihood of subjective interpretations, but also provides businesses with additional guarantees of impartial inspection and protection of their rights.

A responsible approach to data protection

The video equipment used in the work of the HMVT not only allows us to capture high quality data, but also guarantees its complete security: all information is handled in accordance with strict security protocols, in coordination with the State Data Protection Inspectorate. 

Each person is verbally informed of the start of the video and audio recording and the recorders themselves are additionally marked with information stickers.

Vision of a modern supervisory authority

„We take the view that modern video and audio recording technology is now an integral part of a modern supervisory authority. It not only allows for a rapid assessment of contentious situations, but also for a consistent prevention of corruption and breaches of the law. Our ambition is that the daily work of the SHA should be based first and foremost on transparency and objectivity. Video recorders are a working tool to ensure that every decision is based on objective factual data and evidence. It is a useful tool for both economic operators and VMVT inspectors and specialists, enhancing transparency, objectivity and protection of rights," comments Raimondas Kajėnas, Chief Advisor at VMVT.