Nicosia, Cyprus. The prison branch of Pasidy reaffirmed its full support for Justice Minister Costas Fitiris on Friday, saying his prison reform announcements offer “perspective and hope” after years of stalled commitments.
Pasidy calls for commitments to become actions
In a statement, Pasidy said it supports the minister “so that this time any commitments do not remain promises, as happened in the past, but are transformed into tangible and substantial actions”.
The union said the current moment should be used to implement meaningful reform of the penitentiary system and improve working conditions for prison staff.
Dispute with Isotita
The statement followed a public dispute with rival union Isotita, which earlier accused Pasidy of delaying progress on the construction of a new prison facility and accepting temporary measures.
Pasidy rejected the claims and accused Isotita of undermining unity among prison staff.
“Isotita, insists on attempting to torpedo any effort for unity by choosing the path of confrontation and making strong and unfounded accusations against Pasidy colleagues,” Pasidy said.
Call for cooperation with the state
Pasidy said cooperation between unions and the state is essential to address issues in the prison system.
“Only through cooperation, unity and mutual respect will we be able to ensure the modernisation of our penitentiary institution and, at the same time, working conditions for all colleagues characterised by safety, dignity and self-respect,” it said.
Fitiris’ reform announcements
Fitiris announced last week that plans to expand the existing central prison had been abandoned in favour of a new facility outside Nicosia.
He also pledged the immediate recruitment of 90 prison guards, the reopening of the prison guard training school, and the strengthening of health and mental health services for both inmates and staff.
What do you think would be the most important measure to improve conditions in Cyprus’ prison system?