The Cyprus government announced plans to build a new correctional facility in Mathiatis to modernise the prison system and address overcrowding.
Justice and Public Order Minister Kostas Fytiris told Parliament that the project will cover 1,300,000 sq.m., with 1,500 beds and an estimated cost of €300 million.
Staff recruitment and training
Fytiris confirmed that procedures are underway to recruit 90 new prison officers and select a new Director for the Central Prisons, with 37 applications already submitted. He noted that recruitment will include a three-month training programme, and by September, a dedicated school for prison officers and guards will be established.
The Minister stressed that the current Central Prisons staff is exhausted and that facilities do not meet modern standards. He emphasised that the new facility is necessary to improve conditions and ensure proper management of inmates.
Overcrowding and temporary solutions
Central Prisons currently hold 1,175 inmates, a figure comparable to pre-Christmas levels, with 1,450 prisoners deported over the past 2.5 months. Temporary measures include acquiring a wing at Limnes to house 160 inmates and using electronic monitoring bracelets, with 50 new devices expected by the end of March.
Fytiris clarified that pre-trial detainees will remain at the existing Central Prisons to stay close to courts.
Human rights and management reforms
The Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights examined conditions in the Central Prisons, including issues related to inmate safety, drug use, mobile phones, and the management of trans inmates. Plans include creating a dedicated space for trans inmates and establishing internal control units independent of prison administration.
The Minister also outlined reforms to encourage staff rotation between wings, recognise officers working in difficult sections, and improve the administration of sick leave, which he said cannot be granted informally.
Political support and next steps
Lawmakers from AKEL, DISY, DIKO, and independent MPs acknowledged the reforms as positive steps while highlighting the urgency of tackling drugs, violence, and management issues. The new facility in Mathiatis has community approval and aims to combine high security with respect for human rights.
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