In statements regarding the closure of cultural and recreational associations in Lisbon, João Ferreira highlighted a proposal presented during his term that was approved but has not yet been implemented. This proposal involves creating a Support Office for Collectives facing emergency situations.
The candidate of the coalition between PCP and PEV explained that the proposal allows the city council to evaluate if there are suitable spaces within municipal properties for associations facing imminent eviction or those that have been evicted, threatening their continuity.
According to João Ferreira, the ongoing and potential evictions are undeniably linked to the existing rental law. “It is the same cause that has driven thousands of families from their homes, thousands of businesses, traditional trade, and associations. Some have already closed their doors, and others are on the brink,” he noted.
Ferreira added that the rental law continues to have “devastating effects in the city,” and among the candidates for the Lisbon City Council in the upcoming local elections, the CDU is the only party that openly opposes the rental law. The CDU advocates for “new rental legislation that balances the relationship between landlords and tenants and protects families, businesses, and collectives.”
Moreover, he mentioned, the proposed Support Office for Collectives should serve as “a focal point for contact between associations and the council, facilitating entry” for these organizations.
He explained that it would serve as “the contact point with the council for applications, support for financing applications, clarifying doubts, and promoting collaboration between diverse municipal services and associations.”
The candidates for the Lisbon City Council presidency in Sunday’s local elections include Carlos Moedas (PSD/CDS-PP/IL), Alexandra Leitão (PS/Livre/BE/PAN), João Ferreira (CDU), Bruno Mascarenhas (Chega), Ossanda Líber (Nova Direita), José Almeida (Volt), Adelaide Ferreira (ADN), Tomaz Ponce Dentinho (PPM/PTP), and Luís Mendes (RIR).
Currently, the municipal executive is composed of seven members from the New Times coalition – PSD/CDS-PP/MPT/PPM/Aliança, seven from the More Lisbon coalition – PS/Livre, two from CDU, and one from BE.
