The president of the Portuguese Firefighters League (LBP), António Nunes, stated that the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM) has not paid the dues for September, October, and November, though the November payment remains within a “flexible deadline” until the end of this week.
“INEM has not paid, and therefore, the outstanding amount currently stands at approximately the described figure,” he emphasized.
This debt, according to António Nunes, threatens the sustainability of the humanitarian associations responsible for patient transport.
“Without an increased budget from the Ministry of Health, INEM lacks the financial capacity to pay the overdue months,” he stated.
The LBP warned that without immediate payment, many organizations might struggle to pay Christmas bonuses to the firefighters hired at the beginning of next week.
“We cannot have this situation. It is unusual for INEM. It is not uncommon for it to happen with some local health units (ULS). With INEM, it was not usual, we are surprised. Humanitarian associations are asking the LBP why INEM is not paying them,” he reiterated.
A social media post by the LBP today indicated that the total debt “is around 10 million euros per month,” with INEM having “just recently paid the last installment for August.” The statement also mentioned an outstanding debt of 300,000 euros related to the fixed component of the Special Pre-Hospital Emergency Device (DEEPH).
António Nunes further stated that the LBP is the “main service provider” for INEM, ensuring the transport of about 1.2 million patients to emergencies annually.
He insisted that “no reform of INEM” should occur without consulting the LBP.
“Firefighters are private-right humanitarian associations, and their association leaders must be involved, for the good of the population and their communities,” he stressed.
Nunes highlighted an agreement signed in 2024 to provide 100 ambulances, warning of “a wide range of issues that need urgent resolution,” which could address critical situations.
“We do not accept unilateral reform impositions involving firefighters,” without consulting partners, he emphasized, adding that the LBP is always open to having “a very frank and open dialogue with the Ministry of Health regarding urgent and non-urgent patient transport.”
The news agency has contacted INEM for further clarification but is still awaiting a response.
