The four existing cells of the detention area have good physical conditions, adequate ventilation and artificial lightening. Although it was said that the blankets are always washed after each use, it was not possible to prove their hygiene conditions as they were found placed on the bed ready for use with no protective cover. The panel with the rights and duties of the detainees is displayed in a single wall, in the middle of the hall that gives access to the detention spaces. Despite of the fact that the detentions procedures are usually executed by the police stations integrated in the District Police Command of Coimbra, the NPM representatives were informed that upon the arrival of the detainees some of these procedures are reinforced. In particular, it is assured that the right to contact by tele-phone with the defender and to communicate with family or trusted person was accomplished; if not, those conditions may be accomplished at that moment, in a dedicated room. The reality found in the District Police Command of the Public Security Police in Coimbra was positive, particularly due to cleanliness and good conservation status of the facilities. Nevertheless, the absence of evidence of previous wash of the blankets is questionable. The lack of means to regulate the temperature of the building, which was said to be very hot in the summer, also deserves a negative appreciation. In what concerns the compliance with the rights of the detainees, it should be noted that the placement of the informational panel does not suits its intended purpose, as it is cannot be read by the citizens accommodated on the first cells and is of very difficult assess to all other detainees. • Visit no. 17-2015 Date: 2015.09.22 Location: Posto Territorial de Condeixa-a-Nova da Guarda Nacional Republicana [National Republican Guard Territorial Post of Condeixa-a-Nova] (Coimbra) Subject: Detention conditions: lightning, ventilation, isolation against cold or heat. Proceedings to ascertain whether detainees have persons under their responsibility (v.g., minor, senior or person with disabilities). Food quality. Working conditions of the guards On September 22nd, at night, it was executed a visit to the National Republican Guard Territorial Post of Condeixa-a-Nova. The detention area has two active individual cells which recently were subject to conservation works. In the antechamber is visible the panel with the information on the rights and duties of detainees in the Portuguese, Spanish, English and French. Both cells have natural and 34 |