The Parliamentary Legal Affairs Committee on Wednesday discussed the implementation of electronic monitoring bracelets for inmates on leave, following recent prison escapes. The committee also examined potential merit points for contract special police officers to prioritise their permanent recruitment.
Committee Chairman and DISY MP Nicos Tornaritis said discussions focused on additional conditions for inmates granted prison leave. He emphasised the necessity of electronic tagging for suspects, inmates, and those being transported by police to various facilities, including detention centres and hospitals.
The Justice Ministry is expected to submit relevant legislation soon, he added.
DIKO MP Christiana Erotokritou, who registered the issue, said her party’s legislative proposal calls for mandatory electronic monitoring of prisoners on leave. She expressed satisfaction with the initially positive response from the Justice Ministry, Prison Department, and Police, noting the system’s potential expansion to include prisoner transfers.
The committee also addressed the situation of 300 contract special police officers whose contracts expire in six months. Discussion centred on awarding merit points for their service when applying for permanent positions, recognising their experience and acquired knowledge.
Tornaritis referenced a DISY proposal to grant additional points to those who served in special military units, suggesting similar consideration for these officers who have demonstrably served public safety for two and a half years.
AKEL MP Aristos Damianou cautioned that while electronic monitoring could help prevent escapes, broader measures are needed to strengthen police capabilities.
Police union representatives supported efforts to retain the contract officers, citing their valuable experience, particularly in Green Line duties. The Justice Ministry’s comprehensive bill is expected to incorporate provisions from DIKO’s proposal, aiming to enhance public security.
The committee also discussed a proposal by DISY MP Rita Superman to increase penalties for those exploiting displaced persons’ and refugees’ land.
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