The Minister of Justice recently convened a working meeting at Kutaisi Public Service Hall, aiming to engage with the employees of various LEPLs under the Ministry of Justice, understand their initiatives and needs, and address existing challenges.

During the session, Minister Rati Bregadze interacted with attendees in a question-answer format, fostering a dialogue that enables swift problem-solving and ensures the efficient functioning of regional offices.

Joining Minister Bregadze were Deputy Minister Erekle Gvinianidze, Executive Director of the Public Service Hall Lasha Lobjanidze, along with representatives from the Public Service Hall, the State Services Development Agency, the National Public Registry Agency, the National Archive, the National Bureau of Enforcement, Crime Prevention, Non-custodial Sentences, the National Probation Agency, and notaries.

Convicts at Kutaisi Penitentiary No. 2 now have access to essential services through the newly inaugurated Public Service Hall branch within the facility itself. Rati Bregadze, alongside officials from the Public Service Hall and the Penitentiary Service, unveiled this initiative aimed at enhancing inmate welfare.

Moreover, the Ministry of Justice introduced another initiative - the Digital University - within the institution. This project enables incarcerated students to pursue comprehensive higher education remotely. They can engage in university studies, attend online lectures, and interact directly with lecturers.

The integration of the Public Service Hall within penitentiary institutions represents a unique Georgian innovation, unparalleled worldwide. Over 50 services are now accessible to inmates through these branches, significantly improving their access to essential resources.

Additionally, Public Service Hall branches extend their services to Penitentiary Service staff.

Previously, individuals in custody had to rely on third-party power of attorney or written correspondence with the Public Service Hall for services, resulting in lengthy and inflexible processes. With the establishment of Public Service Hall branches within the penitentiary system, incarcerated individuals can now access services with the same convenience as any other visitor to the Public Service Hall.

The expansion of the Houses of Justice and the Digital University project will gradually encompass other penitentiary institutions.