VALLETTA (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Council of Europe’s Committee against Torture has welcomed several improvements in Malta’s correctional facilities, particularly at Kordin prison and local police stations. The committee’s observations are based on a visit conducted between September and October 2023.
At the Kordin Correctional Facility, the Committee noted progress in psychological support, individual care plans, and the protection of prisoners’ rights. It also highlighted that regular psycho-social interventions were being carried out effectively. Health services showed marked improvement since 2015, with better clinic conditions, more equipment, and increased staffing.
Inmates generally reported fair treatment and a calm environment. However, the committee raised concerns about reports of mistreatment and criticized the conditions in Division Six, especially the prolonged stays and problematic entry procedures.
Recommendations included limiting constant CCTV surveillance to high-risk cases, improving privacy in toilet areas, assigning more duties to staff, and offering alternatives like electronic tagging.
The government responded by citing ongoing infrastructure projects, including a new division for 120 prisoners and upgrades to the women’s and forensic sections.
On detention centres, the Committee saw overall improvements but noted that Ħal Far and Ħal Safi remained overly prison-like. They welcomed better police station conditions and the introduction of body cameras.
Interior Minister Byron Camilleri described the report as the most positive ever received on Malta’s detention facilities.
-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
