The president of the SNCGP, Frederico Morais, announced that during a meeting on Tuesday with Minister Rita Alarcão Júdice, the government official sought the cooperation of sector unions to address ongoing issues affecting prison guards, considering a career entry requirement similar to the PSP, set at 18 years of age.
The union leader noted that while the minister has yet to present a concrete proposal regarding minimum entry ages, the union raised concerns about the alleged lack of maturity among young professionals in directly handling inmates.
The ministry acknowledged this suggestion, indicating that new candidates might initially engage in other prison system activities that do not require direct inmate contact.
Frederico Morais described the meeting with Rita Júdice as “very positive,” as the minister conceded that the prison services are currently facing challenges related to security and career progression. Proposals are to be submitted by unions in a forthcoming meeting scheduled for Friday with representatives from Public Administration and the Deputy Secretary of Justice.
Discussions during these negotiations will cover daily activity security, career progression, making the career more attractive to younger candidates, and professional development.
The negotiation process aims to consider “structural renewals” such as the separation of prison regimes (e.g., preventive, convicted, or others), changes to courtyard schedules and coverage, aiming to prevent drone access and reduce the number of guards required for that service.
The ministry also met with other sector unions and associations, with Júlio Rebelo, president of the Independent Prison Guard Union, also highlighting the Justice Ministry’s willingness to solve the identified problems.
“Our impression is that the minister [of Justice] is keen on resolving these issues,” said Júlio Rebelo, while awaiting further negotiation meetings.
