Prison Guard Strike in Portugal Causes Court Delays

On March 10, 2026, the National Union of the Prison Guard Corps (SNCGP) initiated a month-long strike, leading to significant disruptions in Portugal's judicial system. The strike primarily affects the Special Intervention and Security Group (GISP), responsible for high-risk prisoner transfers and court escorts.

Reasons for the Strike

The SNCGP has been in a longstanding dispute with the Directorate-General for Prison and Reintegration Services (DGRSP) over unpaid overtime regulations dating back to 2018. The union argues that the lack of proper compensation and recognition for overtime work has led to deteriorating working conditions and low morale among prison guards.

Impact on the Judicial System

The strike has resulted in:

• Postponement of Court Hearings: Many court proceedings have been delayed due to the unavailability of prisoner transport and security services.
• Increased Backlog: The judicial system is experiencing a growing backlog of cases, affecting the timely delivery of justice.
• Security Concerns: The absence of specialized personnel for high-risk prisoner management raises safety concerns within the prison system and during necessary transports.

Government Response

The Ministry of Justice has acknowledged the grievances and is in negotiations with the SNCGP to resolve the issues. However, as of now, no agreement has been reached, and the strike is expected to continue until the end of March.

Implications

This strike underscores the critical role of prison guards in the judicial process and highlights the need for addressing labor disputes promptly to maintain the efficiency and security of the legal system.