Newsroom / CNA
President Nicos Christodoulides inaugurated the new wing of the Closed Prison on Tuesday, announcing plans to elevate the Prison Guards' Academy to a higher education institution and double the monthly allowance for prison guards from €120 to €240.
The new wing includes 97 cells, dormitories, classrooms, a dental clinic, medical office, visiting room, gym, basketball court, kitchen, and restaurant, with a capacity for 240 prisoners.
The transformation of the open prison wing into a closed facility began in early 2024 and was completed in November 2024, adhering to Central Prison standards. The Department of Public Works oversaw construction, while the Department of Electromechanical Services handled the installation of security systems. The total cost was €4.2 million, including VAT.
President Christodoulides highlighted the government’s two-phase plan, launched in March 2023, to address overcrowding and improve prison conditions.
The first phase included three new facilities at a cost of €5.5 million, culminating in the conversion of the old open prison into a modern closed wing. This addition alleviates overcrowding by 30% and enhances rehabilitation programs.
The second phase, approved in September 2024, involves constructing a new closed prison wing with a 360-prisoner capacity, costing €35 million and expected to be completed by 2028. Once both phases are finished, Central Prisons will have a total capacity of 1,200 prisoners, nearly doubling from the 620 spaces available in 2023.
The President addressed the Prisons Department’s understaffing, noting the creation of 208 new warden positions for the new wing. Additionally, the age cap of 40 years for permanent appointments will be removed to attract more candidates.
Plans are underway to upgrade the Prison Guards' Academy to a public higher education institution offering recognized qualifications. This initiative aims to enhance officer training and improve prisoner management while respecting human rights.
To prevent organized crime within prisons, a €3.5 million advanced surveillance system is being installed, replacing outdated equipment. Additional modern technologies will be implemented by 2025 to improve security and operational efficiency.
President Christodoulides announced an increase in the special allowance for prison guards to €240, effective March 2025, recognizing the challenges of their work.
Deputy Director Konstantinos Konstantinidis commended the government’s prompt action in addressing overcrowding and modernizing prison infrastructure. He emphasized the staff’s commitment to fulfilling the Prisons Department’s mission.
The project reflects the government’s dedication to modernizing the prison system while balancing security and humane prisoner treatment, aligned with international standards.
