During the marathon of budget voting that began today in the Budget, Finance, and Public Administration Commission with the presence of Finance Minister Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, the Communist Party (PCP) saw the first amendment proposal approved, despite opposition from the PSD and CDS-PP and abstention from the IL. Supporting votes came from PCP, Chega, PS, Livre, BE, and PAN.
“The Government shall make the necessary budgetary changes to enhance the funding of the National Network for the Support and Protection of Victims of Domestic Violence and the programs directed at offenders,” reads the approved text.
The PCP’s rationale emphasizes that “combating domestic violence is a state priority, which must ensure the necessary means for the prevention, support, and protection of victims.”
“However, the national support network faces severe problems of underfunding and financial instability, relying on funds from Santa Casa gaming and European funds, which compromises the stability and continuity of services, as well as precarizes the employment of its workers,” it criticizes.
Therefore, the communists aim to ensure “greater effectiveness of the existing instruments, guaranteeing regular annual allocations in the State Budget for stable funding, human and technical resources capable of maintaining psychosocial support, legal information, and other essential support for victims.”
“Simultaneously, it advocates for a significant increase in funds for programs aimed at offenders, a key element in reducing recidivism and the cycle of violence,” it adds.
