PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS AND SECURITY New prison facility in Ħal Far

Through a Legal Notice published in the Government Gazette today, certain incarcerated persons will be transferred to Ħal Far, to a building that has been specifically equipped to accommodate foreign nationals who are nearing the end of their sentence. These prisoners will then be deported from the country after serving their sentence.

This measure is being taken primarily for security reasons. The building, which forms part of the Detention Centre, has been equipped with security arrangements and conditions similar to those available to the persons who will be transferred from Corradino.

Minister for Home Affairs and Security Glenn Bedingfield stated that the success being achieved by the Police Force in bringing more individuals before the courts is also having an impact on the prison population. “On average, five persons leave Corradino every day, while ten new inmates enter. This is a prison that was built by the British in 1850, almost 200 years ago, and despite further construction and improvements over the years, there are limitations as to what can be done," Minister Bedingfield said.

Over the past weeks, several discussions have therefore been held on how to improve the existing structures and facilities for incarcerated persons. Minister Bedingfield added: “Alongside this measure, we will be taking further steps to ensure both security and appropriate conditions for every person who is incarcerated. This is being done in full respect of Malta's legal obligations and the European conventions to which Malta is a signatory."