Nearly half of Daugavpils prison staff to lose jobs after Grīva division closure

Closure of Grīva Prison Division

The Grīva division of Daugavgrīva prison in Daugavpils is set to cease operations on December 15, according to the Latvian Prison Administration (IeVP). Currently, the prison has two divisions—Grīva and Daugavpils—employing 405 people, though 506 positions are authorized.

After the closure, a new staffing plan will be approved, providing only 240 positions in the Daugavpils division. This means about 40% of current staff will lose their jobs. IeVP states that approximately 150 employees will be offered to continue service at other Latvian prisons, including Jēkabpils, Rīga Central Prison, Iļģuciems, Olaine, Valmiera, or Cēsis juvenile institution. Opportunities will also be available at the newly opened Liepāja prison and through cooperation with the State Police, Border Guard, and Fire and Rescue Service.

Before the closure, 14 employees will reach service pension age, and three will reach general retirement age. Already, 17 people have been transferred to Jēkabpils prison.

The decision is based on the outdated infrastructure that no longer meets modern standards and human rights requirements. Maintaining old buildings consumes significant state funds while failing to provide adequate working and living conditions.

Daugavpils municipality has expressed concerns about the impact on the local labor market and socio-economic situation. The municipality is ready to coordinate with the State Employment Agency (NVA) to support affected workers, including retraining and job placement.

Earlier this year, Jelgava prison was also closed, and a new modern prison complex worth €126 million opened in Liepāja.