Luís Montenegro, addressing the government program debate in the Assembly of the Republic, revealed that a fiscal exemption scheme has benefited 42,740 young middle-class citizens. This initiative, aiming at individuals up to 35 years old, offers up to 100% financing for housing loans.
Bloco de Esquerda (BE) deputy Mariana Mortágua, during her inquiry, criticized the government, asserting that the middle class is being affected by rising housing costs and described the situation as a “poverty factory” due to the housing crisis. Mortágua accused the administration of making “empty promises” and suggested a need for substantial change.
In response, Prime Minister Montenegro acknowledged the challenges in public housing development but remained optimistic about the possibilities of stimulating both public and private construction. He noted a 27% execution rate for public housing projects, with an expectation of completing 13,429 homes by June’s end.
Montenegro also highlighted administrative hurdles that have impeded new housing construction and defended the government’s housing policies, arguing against BE’s proposals, suggesting limited rent policies could reduce market availability, increasing prices.
Additionally, PAN’s sole deputy criticized the government for neglecting domestic violence issues, urging more victim support and animal protection laws. Montenegro responded by emphasizing the included measures for domestic violence in the government’s program and affirmed animal protection as a priority.
JPP’s representative acknowledged positive aspects of the government program but criticized the absence of mobility subsidies for autonomous regions. The Prime Minister assured attention to the regions, expressing willingness to address and improve mobility subsidies in the future.
