“I want my first words to express sincere and deep gratitude to the group of professionals who work in the penitentiary center of Melilla. To the public employees who, day after day, carry out a silent but essential work, which is directly linked to one of the fundamental principles of the penitentiary system: the social reintegration of persons deprived of their liberty.”

The Delegate of the Government in Melilla, Sabrina Moh, on the occasion of the institutional act that the penitentiary center of Melilla has held in honor of the Patron of Penitentiary Institutions, Our Lady of Mercy, has highlighted the commitment of the staff of the center and the value of their daily work.

During her speech, the highest representative of the Government of Spain in our city recalled that the Spanish Constitution, in its first article, proclaims that the dignity of the person and the inviolable rights that are inherent to him are the foundation of our coexistence. “How timely it is, on this day, to recognize that these principles are reflected in this festivity: the defense of freedom, the commitment to the most vulnerable and a shared responsibility that is carried out from the vocation of public service that characterizes you,” he said.

The Government Delegate, who has addressed her words to the authorities, center staff, family and friends who have gathered at the Sociocultural Equestrian Sports Center, has thanked the work of the group of professionals who day by day carry out work that requires “firmness, empathy, technical preparation and sensitivity.” “You are the pillar that supports the operation of the center, and your professionalism, dedication and vocation of public service are a constant example,” he said.

Moh has stressed the importance of its work beyond the maintenance of order, stressing that the work of the penitentiary centre is directly linked to the social reintegration of persons deprived of their liberty, offering second opportunities and encouraging personal change and growth.

Recognitions and tributes

In the framework of the celebration, the Delegate also highlighted the collaboration with other institutions and bodies —Judicature, Security Forces and Corps, private security and public and private entities—, which allows to address the challenges effectively, guaranteeing security, fundamental rights and compliance with the constitutional purposes of the penalty.

The event, which has included special recognition for colleagues honored this year for their trajectory, retiring after a lifetime of service, as well as staff with 25 years of experience and new entrants, has also helped Moh highlight the importance of family support, which is fundamental for those working in the penitentiary.

In addition, the Delegate has conveyed a message of memory and affection to the family and colleagues of José Jodar, a recently deceased official, remembering his legacy within the institution.

The objective, the reinsertion

During his speech, he valued the celebration of this event: “Today we celebrate Mercy Day together with the conviction that prison work, when done with a vocation, respect and cooperation, is a work that transforms. Let us continue to move towards an increasingly just, dignified and humane system, and let us do so knowing that the real social victory over crime comes through reintegration.”

Finally, Moh closed his speech wishing, on behalf of the Government of Spain, the Ministry of the Interior and on his own behalf, a happy Day of Mercy to the whole family of penitentiary institutions of Melilla.