The Ministry of Justice has announced its decision(s) regarding the situation of the Nice prison, which has been the subject of discussions for several years.
In line with the recommendations of Prefect Leclerc, the current prison, built in 1887 (!), will be maintained but renovated: today, it hosts 670 inmates with a capacity of 300.
One can easily understand the discomfort, which is compounded by the dilapidation, leading to a general situation not worthy of a civilized country!
Moreover, a new detention facility with a larger size (650 places) will be established in the area of La Baronne in the Var Plain (right bank).
Alongside these announcements, the Minister of Justice explained that a release preparation area (QPS) is under consideration in the Alpes-Maritimes, and land searches are underway.
The press release does not mention deadlines. The reason is clear: it will be up to the new Minister of Justice to take over the files to provide an operational follow-up.
Will the old and recent controversies stop as a result?
It is recalled that a residents’ association had requested the closure of the city prison and the renovation of the neighborhood.
That the mayor of Saint-Laurent opposed the installation of the prison in his commune, the Iscles area, which had been considered at one point.
That the president of the Metropolis had protested against the option concerning the Var Plain (left bank?).
Finally, while everyone recognizes the unsustainability of the current situation, each tries to pass the hot potato to the other.
Will the ministerial decision be enough to call an end to the squabbles?
