Justice Minister Costas Fytiris has announced the construction of a new prison outside the city, marking a significant shift in correctional policy. This decision comes as he suspends plans to expand the existing Central Prisons, citing the identification of a suitable site for the new facility.
New prison: Details of the New Correctional Facility
During his fourth visit to Central Prisons in less than a month, Fytiris revealed that the new prison will meet modern requirements and aims to provide humane and dignified living conditions for inmates. The minister stated that architectural designs, tendering processes, and construction are set to commence as soon as possible.
Recruitment Plans for Prison Officers
In a bid to bolster staff numbers, Fytiris announced plans to recruit 90 new prison officers within the month. He emphasised the importance of having a unified spirit among prison staff, which is crucial for the success of the correctional system.
Support for Correctional Staff
At a ceremony celebrating off-duty staff, Fytiris expressed his wishes for the new year and acknowledged the vital role of prison officers in maintaining an effective correctional environment. “A correctional institution is considered truly successful only when the people being punished serve their sentence and are released to integrate better into society,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of reintegration.
Commitment to Modernisation and Support
The minister outlined various measures to ensure that the correctional system meets contemporary standards. These include:
- Advertising 90 new prison officer positions, with mandatory training prior to employment.
- Upgrading and reopening the Prison Officers School to enhance training for new recruits.
- Advertising the position of Prison Director to ensure effective leadership in the new facility.
Evaluation and Monitoring Initiatives
Fytiris announced the introduction of an automated staff evaluation system designed to provide daily scoring based on objective and transparent criteria. This system aims to ensure equal treatment and merit-based assessment among prison staff by the first half of 2026.
Decongestion and Support for Inmates
In an effort to alleviate overcrowding in the current prison system, the government will pursue a gradual reduction of minor offenders in collaboration with the Legal Service. Additional measures include:
- Implementing an independent electronic camera monitoring system to enhance security and oversight.
- Providing enhanced nursing and psychosocial support for both inmates and staff.
- Introducing a staff rotation system at regular intervals to maintain morale and effectiveness.
The Vision for a Modern Correctional System
Fytiris reiterated the overarching goal of a modern correctional system, which is not merely to imprison but to facilitate the reintegration of inmates into society while strengthening public safety. His commitment to regular visits to Central Prisons reflects a dedication to ongoing oversight and improvement of the system.
The Justice Minister’s announcements signal a proactive approach to addressing the current challenges within the correctional system. By focusing on modernisation, support for staff, and the humane treatment of inmates, the government aims to create a more effective and rehabilitative environment.
