CAT/OP/POL/CNPMRO/1
71.
It should also be explained that due to understaffing of the NMPT, the
implementation of the issued recommendations is monitored mainly by way of
correspondence. We monitor the time between issuing the recommendations and receiving
a response. If the NMPT does not receive a reply from the addressee within a month, a
reminder is sent with information about the need to take a position. If the managers of the
establishment do not agree with the recommendations, the representatives of the NMPT
contact their supervisory body, requesting it to issue an opinion on the recommendations in
question and to take a position on the matter. A dialogue is conducted to explain the
recommendations issued. In addition, every year the NMPT re-visits several establishments.
72.
Please also be informed that the NMPT has adopted the practice according to which,
if the implementation of the recommendations requires longer time and significant financial
outlays, a follow-up letter to the managers of the establishment is sent one year after issuing
the recommendation.
73.
Given that the number of re-visits is relatively small, the NMPT will consider
conducting follow-up visits over a significant part or the whole of the next year, to verify
the implementation of the Mechanism’s recommendations.
Comments on the recommendation(s) contained in paragraph 47
74.
The National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture regularly meets with
representatives of the National Headquarters of the Prison Service. During the meetings,
systemic problems diagnosed during the visits to penitentiary establishments are discussed.
The implementation of the NMPT recommendations by public authorities responsible for
the operation of such establishments is monitored by way of correspondence. In connection
with the recommendation of the Subcommittee, please be informed that this year a working
meeting will be held with police officers to discuss the actual possibilities of implementing
the recommendations concerning problems diagnosed with regard to police stations and
police rooms for detained persons. The meeting will also be an opportunity to exchange
good practices identified in the visited police facilities.
75.
As mentioned above, the Mechanism sees the possibility to gradually convince
members of the Polish Parliament that the NMPT plays an important role in torture
prevention, by inviting MPs to participate in the conducted visits. This postulate was
contained in the NMPT strategy for 2019–2023.
76.
As regards the recommendation to disseminate the NMPT annual reports, please be
informed that the annual reports are published on the NMPT website www.kmpt.rpo.gov.pl
under the tab annual reports and publications. The annual reports, translated into English,
are also posted on the English-language website of the CHR, under the National Preventive
Mechanism tab. Information about the publication of the annual report in English is sent by
e-mail to national preventive mechanisms in other countries and to international
organizations, including CPT, SPT, APT and CoE. The annual reports of the National
Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture are also published on the Subcommittee’s website.
C. Final recommendations
Comments on the recommendation(s) contained in paragraphs 48 and 49
77.
Since the beginning of its work, the Polish National Mechanism for the Prevention
of Torture has been a member of such mechanisms’ network (NPM Forum) that exists
within the Council of Europe. In order to improve their skills and working methods
necessary in the performance of their tasks, staff members of the Mechanism take part in all
workshops organized by the network. As already mentioned, intensified cooperation with
non-governmental organizations will be provided for under the NMPT strategy and
discussed with its Expert Committee.
78.
The National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture remains open to cooperation
with the Subcommittee and other mechanisms for the prevention of torture. However, this
cooperation, due to scarcity of human and financial resources allocated to the CHR Office,
is dependent on the costs of participation in relevant international-level events.
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