38 6.3. Execution of criminal sanctions (prisons) During 2012 NPM visited eight institutions for execution of criminal sanctions (prisons)80. Over 100 recommendations were sent in order to eliminate irregularities found within the areas of work organization and conduct. Based on visits to the penitentiaries, conducted during 2012, NPM noted that there was no significant improvement of the conditions previously identified. Accommodation and other living conditions in prisons are generally not in accordance with the regulations and current standards.81 Prisons in Serbia are overcrowded. The existing capacity is not sufficient for about 10,000 persons currently accommodated (detainees, prisoners, misdemeanors, persons subjected to security measures of ...), which means that significant number of inmates are not allowed a space of at least eight cubic meters and four square meters in the dormitory. Some sleep on mattresses on the floor or triple bunk beds which undermine the idea of a separate bed. Towards the end of 2012, consequences of the amnesty were reflected in a reduction of overcrowdings of prisons aimed for prisoners. Albeit they will be released from prison on that particular basis in the coming period, it is expected that the effects of the amnesty will be short-lived. Irregularities of existing institutional capacities are reflected primarily in the fact that some were built early in the last century many of them are located in the central parts of cities, therefore not adaptable to the existing standards. A large number of dormitories are not being maintained and in poor condition. In some dormitories there is no direct inflow of air or natural light, but it comes through the common hallway, and artificial lighting is usually sufficient. Sanitary facilities are generally dilapidated, damp with worn sanitation ware. A large number of PDLs is not allowed enough time in the fresh air, often less than an hour a day, although regulations require a minimum of two hours. This is primarily due to the lack of acceptable walking areas in prisons. Existing walkways generally do not have adequate eaves, suitable for protection from precipitation. Moreover, facilities intended for physical activity are inadequate, especially under adverse weather conditions. Active, individual and group therapy work of educators with prisoners is insufficient. Moreover, the impression drawn from the conversations with educators and prison of80 81 There are 29 prisons in the Republic of Serbia See Detention and Rehabilitation Centre Sremska Mitrovica NPM visit report 71-161/12, dated 05 November 2012