Delegation from Norway visited TOG unit and met with the trade union representatives
Norwegian delegation visited Pravieniškės prisons No 1 and No 2 where they got deeper knowledge of the Lithuanian prison system and trade union activities. The majority of the visitors were leaders and members of Norwegian trade unions working in the correctional system or representing it.
First, the guests visited the TOG unit for prolific re-offenders which was opened in December last year under Norwegian program. This is the only unit of its kind in Lithuanian prisons and is considered an important step forward for the prison system facilitating reoffenders to reintegrate into society. Karolis Poderis, coordinator of the Dynamic Security and TOG Unit at Pravieniškės Prison No 1, gave a short overview of the Unit activities, daily challenges and achievements, and the daily routine and relationship between the inmates and staff. Norwegian correctional officers Maren Riis, Stig Solheim and Samantha Crichton, who took part in the TOG exchange programme, also shared their insights. TOG staff were also actively involved in the discussion on the performance improvement.
„We were pleased to witness the establishment and functioning of the TOG unit. We were impressed with what we saw today. We think, that you ‘ve managed to implement many things. Of course, you adapted the model to your environment, but the core idea of the TOG concept was maintained, “- said Torunn Hasler, Senior Adviser of International Unit at Norwegian Correctional Service, the head of the delegation.
Norwegian delegation also had a meeting with the representatives of the Lithuanian law enforcement trade union.The guests from Norway were interested in the working environment for officers, highlighted the importance of social dialogue, negotiations, collective agreements.
“We welcome the closer links with trade union representatives. We still face a number of challenges in Lithuania, which Norway already knows how to deal with. This is a great example to learn from. I don't just mean in terms of how well the correctional system is set up, but also in terms of how well social dialogue works within it, which can mitigate disagreements or differences of opinion between workers and employers”, – said Loreta Soščekienė, Chairwoman of the Lithuanian Federation of Law Enforcement Officials.
The visit was held within the context of the Project Development of Quality Based Lithuanian Correctional Service System(PDP 3) implemented under the EEA and Norwegian Financial Mechanisms programme Justice and Home Affairs 2014-2021. This was the second visit. The first one was realized in Norway, when representatives from the Prison Service and trade unions visited Kongsvinger and Lilestrom in Norway to learn more about Norwegian experience. Such exchange visits are expected in future years.
Last updated: 24-04-2024
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