The events that unfolded at the main Athens courthouse complex on Monday, when a Roma woman fatally shot a man accused of killing her son and an inmate escaped custody, prove that standards of security at the courts fall seriously short.

This is not the first time that it has become apparent that public buildings which should have strict state-of-the-art security systems and mechanisms remain extremely vulnerable. But these are especially difficult times that have seen a major increase not only in crime but also in a general feeling of paranoia.

We must get serious about safeguarding important institutions and buildings, and especially the lives of people working within them. We need better planning and absolute rules that are imposed on everyone without fail.

Every time a tragedy such as Monday’s occurs we are reminded of the lamentable security at public buildings for a day or two and then the issue is forgotten. This should no longer be the case, and especially not today.