In his statements, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fytiris, set as a central priority the continuous upgrading of the Police and the penitentiary system, underlining that the safety of citizens and the prevention of crime are at the core of government policy.
"The improvement of the police and their services will be continuous," he stressed, noting that "the police must be on the streets and are already on the streets." As he mentioned, controls have been intensified recently for prevention purposes, while in the coming period the effort will be strengthened with "upgrading technology and equipment, so that situations are prevented and not simply suppressed."
The minister expressed his belief that "we can achieve that every citizen can walk safely, day and night, and most importantly, feel this safety", attributing it not only to the action of the Police but also to the cooperation of all relevant services.
He made particular reference to the penitentiary system, clearly stating: “To be honest, the expression ‘central prisons’ does not satisfy me.” As he said, “I firmly believe that we are talking about a penitentiary institution and that is how it should be.” According to him, the goal is not only punishment, but “when someone leaves the penitentiary institution, they are a better person and can reintegrate into society, which must accept them.”
Referring to the operation and supervision of prisons, Mr. Fytiris stressed that constant engagement and cross-sectoral cooperation are required. “I have very good staff in the Ministry and close cooperation with the Police, the Fire Department and the penitentiary institution. I believe that we will catch up,” he said characteristically. “Hard work, goal setting, a timetable and proper planning, that’s how the results will come soon.”
On the issue of evaluating members of the Police and prison staff, the minister opened the discussion on a points system. “Those who are on the front lines cannot be treated the same as those in support positions,” he said, clarifying that the reward “is not only about money, but also about development.” The same, he stressed, applies to the penitentiary institution: “It is not possible for those who serve in difficult wards to be evaluated the same as those who are in offices.”
In closing, Mr. Fytiris underlined the importance of leadership and persuasion: “Hierarchy starts from the top down. I want them to listen to me and do what they have to do, not because we impose it on them, but because they believe it.” As he mentioned, organizational structure and hierarchy are necessary “in every organization that wants to function properly,” sending a message of discipline, but also of substantial cooperation.
Source: sigmalive
