Criticism of Staff Shortages in Prisons

Austria-wide, "at least 300 positions" are required, explained Norbert Dürnberger, chairman of the GÖD Justice Guard Union, to Ö1. Despite the strained budget situation, a clear commitment is now necessary, he demanded. Because the relief in the correctional facilities will only be noticeable in 2027 or 2028. There is also a shortage of staff in the new youth prison in Vienna.

Ombudsman also speaks of staff shortage in the penal system

In the Münnichplatz correctional facility in Vienna-Simmering, not all positions necessary to ensure full operation are filled, criticized Dürnberger in the Morning Journal on Monday. At a time when the new location was already known, a separate training course for the youth prison could have been started, "then you would probably have young beginners available there now, who are urgently needed," he cited as an example. This was neglected.

Ombudswoman Gabriela Schwarz, who initiated an investigation procedure for JA Münnichplatz in the spring, also spoke in the Morning Journal about staff shortages in juvenile detention: "There is always talk that all positions are filled, but long-term sick leaves, parental leaves, which are not considered, are not included." There is repeatedly a shortage in the areas of psychiatry, psycho- and occupational therapy, and social work, "that's where attention needs to be paid."

Münnichplatz correctional facility in full operation from autumn

The new Vienna youth prison at Münnichplatz is set to go into full operation in the autumn. There will then be space for 72 inmates. In addition to 60 executive officers, there should also be specialists in the fields of education, psychology, and social work. The head of the educational service is filled, a position for the head of the social service is currently advertised, it was said in July in response to a parliamentary inquiry by Justice Minister Anna Sporrer (SPÖ). Regarding the head of the psychological service, there will be a "planned transfer of the position from another department." The JA also made headlines after major construction work was pending during ongoing operations and external persons attempted to contact inmates. The deficiencies are to be rectified over the summer, it was said.

(APA/Red)

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