Dialogos

Phytiris: Construction of New Prison Facility to Take 4 Years or More

Published January 14, 2026, 15:01
Phytiris: Construction of New Prison Facility to Take 4 Years or More

Minister of Justice and Public Order, Kostas Phytiris, informed the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Affairs that the construction of a new prison facility is estimated to take 4 years or more. He highlighted the need to combat organized crime and acknowledged the overcrowding in existing prisons, which do not meet modern needs. He also mentioned the upcoming launch of the "Cypriot FBI" and the need for increased policing, especially at night. Members of Parliament expressed various opinions. Aristos Damianou (AKEL) announced a scheduled meeting with the Minister, while Christiana Erotokritou (DIKO) expressed concern about the decline in public safety. Sotiris Ioannou (ELAM) assured support from his party, while Charalambos Theopemptou (Citizens' Movement) called for better consultation with the Parliament. Alekos Tryfonidis (DIPA) emphasized the multifaceted nature of the Minister's work and warned of the negative consequences of the politicization of the Police, describing it as "disastrous". He stressed that security forces should not be politicized, as this would lead to chaos. Mr. Phytiris assured the MPs of his availability to attend the Parliament when called upon and explained that his visits to the prisons and the Police were aimed at better understanding the problems facing the correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies. He also announced that a location for the new prison facility has been found and consultations with local residents will follow.