Philenews

New Prison Construction Announced by Justice Minister

Published January 7, 2026, 14:15
New Prison Construction Announced by Justice Minister

Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris announced the construction of new prisons outside the urban area of Larnaca, while simultaneously suspending projects to expand the existing Central Prisons. This decision comes as part of a series of measures to upgrade the correctional system. Specifically, the Minister announced the call for 90 new prison guard positions with mandatory prior training, the upgrading and reopening of the Prison Guard School, and the call for a Prison Director position. Furthermore, an automated assessment and scoring system for correctional staff will be established, with objective and transparent criteria, within the first half of 2026. The aim is to improve the quality of services and ensure decent living conditions for inmates. Mr. Fytiris emphasized the importance of state support for the correctional system and stressed that the system's success is judged by the ability of prisoners to reintegrate into society after their release. The announcement was made during a visit by the Minister to the Central Prisons, where he met with staff and held a traditional New Year's cake cutting ceremony.