Justice minister briefs unions on planned police and prison reforms

Nicosia, Cyprus. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris on Monday briefed representatives of police and prison guard unions on planned changes to the police force and correctional system. The justice ministry said the meetings were held in a particularly friendly and constructive atmosphere.

Police reforms

The meetings included an exchange of views on personnel matters and the operation of the police and Central Prisons.

Fitiris outlined proposed amendments to the Police Law intended to modernise the force’s institutional and organisational framework. The proposed changes concern recruitment and promotions, retirement age, allowances, the points system, restructuring, specialised departments and operational support.

The ministry said provisions are also being promoted to improve the safety and protection of police officers who are killed or injured while on duty. The provisions are undergoing legal vetting and will subsequently be submitted to parliament.

Emphasis is also being placed on upgrading police infrastructure and equipment to enable the force to respond effectively to its expanding responsibilities and duties.

Central Prisons changes

Fitiris also informed prison guard union representatives about proposed amendments to the Prisons Law and changes to the structure and operation of the prisons department.

The issues discussed included staff safety, the creation of a maximum-security wing, operational support, security checks with police assistance, the effective use of surveillance systems and the establishment of a rapid response unit.

Staff shortages were also addressed, along with measures to upgrade the prison guard profession, provide staff training, offer incentives to attract new guards and revise recruitment pay scales.

Fitiris referred to changes in the organisational structure of the prisons, the department’s new management and measures being promoted concerning juvenile prisons.