New Prison Construction in Zwickau: A Budgetary Headache for Thuringia
The construction of the planned large prison in Zwickau, Saxony, is causing sleepless nights for the Thuringian prison system. The union representing prison officers, the Association of Prison Officers in Thuringia, is vocal about its concerns. "We understand the necessity of the joint prison with Saxony," says Ronny Rüdiger, their state chairman, "but the financial mismanagement and delays can't come at the expense of Thuringia's civil servants."
The uncertainty about costs and completion dates has made personnel planning for Thuringia's five prisons more challenging. Rüdiger suggests a reevaluation of financial resources for the Thuringian prison system. Meanwhile, the prolonged operation of inefficient prisons, like Hohenleuben, necessitates construction projects not initially planned. Staffing, according to Rüdiger, should not be compromised in the current employment strain within the prison system.
Initially planned to open in 2019, the old Hohenleuben prison is set to close with the construction of the new Zwickau prison. Additionally, personnel from Thuringia will work in Zwickau. However, post-notice from Saxony's client to the general planner for the new prison building, the joint opening of the two Free States' prisons has been postponed indefinitely.
Finances look increasingly grim. Thuringia contributes 42% to the funding, with the initial cost of €150 million now doubled. Rüdiger fears more expenses could pile up. "Thuringia didn't negotiate the best terms initially," Rüdiger says, implying a potential for negotiation failure during contract agreement with Saxony. The union currently sees no feasible exit from the state treaty with Saxony.
The delays and financial woes affect the welfare of Thuringian prison staff, whose employment is already strained. Rüdiger emphasizes the importance of maintaining budget allocation without compromising staff welfare.
Inserted Insights:
Several initiatives and projects in Saxony and Thuringia, though unrelated to the new prison construction project in Zwickau, can influence broader discussions about infrastructure and economic development. They include sustainable construction concepts, economic development projects, recycling and circular economy efforts, and the expansion of recycling and sustainable technologies industries. These trends might indirectly influence the financial implications and priorities for infrastructure projects, like prisons.
For specific information about the current challenges and financial implications of the new prison construction project in Zwickau, due diligence involves consulting local government reports, official announcements, or project-related documents. The provided sources don't contain this information.
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