Estonia: Several countries interested in renting prison space: ministry

Several countries have expressed interest in renting Estonia’s empty prison space, according to the Ministry of Justice, ERR reports. A ministry official said that neighbouring countries had shown interest, and that European statistics indicated a demand for prison space. However, legislative amendments were needed before renting out prison space, the official added. Earlier reports suggested that the UK might rent space in Estonian prisons. Due to a decline in the number of prisoners in Estonia, the National Audit Office (Riigikontroll) has recommended finding ways to reduce prison maintenance costs.