PRICES UP⟩prisoners are being overcharged at the prison store: unrealistic, it’s no longer possible to go shopping

Prison store prices are raising concerns among inmates, with some claiming the costs are unrealistic and unaffordable. The Viru Prison inmate stated that while living conditions and food quality are satisfactory, prices within the prison store are significantly higher than those found in retail outlets. He cited an example of cucumbers, noting that the price within the prison store is considerably elevated compared to prices at stores like Selver.

The inmate reported a 60 percent increase in prices, stating his hourly wage of 0.23 euros makes purchasing goods impossible. He listed examples of increased costs for items such as apples, onions, and chocolate. Liis Lumiste, a public relations officer for the prison service, acknowledged that prices within the prison have risen in line with general societal increases.

However, she refuted a 60 percent price increase, explaining that prison stores inherently operate at a higher cost due to logistical challenges and the absence of discounts. She clarified that the Prison Service Act permits price increases of up to 20 percent. Lumiste emphasized that inmates receive necessary food and hygiene products, and the prison provides these if inmates are unable to purchase them themselves.

Prison store shopping is available to inmates twice a month. The Prison Service is developing an e-store service, with initial testing through tablets expected to begin by the end of this year to improve services for inmates.

Topics: #prison #prices #store