- 46 The CPT welcomes the steps taken to reduce overcrowding and to remedy some of the other shortcomings observed by the delegation. In particular, it was informed that the bathrooms have been repaired and that prisoners have been issued with new mattresses and blankets, and provided with lockers. Further, the CPT noted the intention to establish 30 work positions and to provide educational classes for prisoners, as well as other cultural and sporting activities These are positive steps towards providing adequate living conditions for prisoners. The CPT trusts that these measures will be sustained and further measures taken. 99. As noted in the 2001 visit report, the Prison Law of 1999 recognises the importance of a satisfactory programme of activities for the well-being of prisoners by enshrining the right for both remand and sentenced prisoners to educational, sports and cultural activities31. Thus, the standards are positive but their implementation remains aspirational. In all the prisons visited in 2005, it was not only that many prisoners were not involved in some form of organised activity, but the activities available often involved only a small part of the day or were occasional work, and were mostly of a monotonous nature. Such a state of affairs is not acceptable for any kind of prisoner (either on remand or sentenced), but is particularly harmful in so far as prisoners with lengthy sentences are concerned. As regards the latter prisoners, no measures had been taken to implement the recommendations made by the CPT in previous reports.32 100. Certainly the ability of the prison service to provide purposeful activities, linked to an individualised treatment plan, is to a large extent related to the problem of overcrowding. However, one should not wait for the latter to ameliorate before improving the opportunities available to prisoners. Proactive measures by the authorities are required, otherwise the prison system is likely to become an even greater breeding ground for criminality. As prisoners look forward to release into the community they need to be prepared for that life, to possess a degree of self-worth and to feel capable of leading a life away from crime. A regime which provides for varied activities is a vital component in the preparation for release, as well as being beneficial for the running of the prison. The CPT recommends that the Greek authorities devise means for improving substantially the programmes of activities on offer to inmates (both remand and sentenced) in Korydallos Men’s and Women’s Prisons and Chios and Komotini Judicial Prisons. Such programmes should be further expanded as the overcrowding is reduced; permitting prisoners themselves to take initiatives in this area, under appropriate supervision, might also be considered. The CPT would also like to receive information about the number of workshop places available in Korydallos Women’s Prison for 2005 and 2006, and the amount of time spent by prisoners on the activity concerned. The CPT recommends that the Greek authorities review the situation of long-term prisoners in all prison establishments and draw up a detailed plan to introduce the intended new measures. 4. 31 32 Health care services cf. CPT/Inf (2002) 31, paragraph 80. cf. CPT/Inf (2002) 31, paragraph 83.