“New technologies are always evolving. We cannot address civil protection and firefighting with technologies from five, ten, or fifteen years ago. We must be in constant evolution, and this is not happening. I appeal to the authorities and the government to prioritize the action of firefighters and civil protection,” said António José Seguro at the end of a visit to the volunteer firefighters of Castelo Branco and the Beira Baixa Sub-Regional Command.
The presidential candidate spent the morning engaging with those responsible for protecting people and property in the fire-prone Beira Baixa region.
In statements to the media, Seguro expressed gratitude to the men and women in firefighting and civil protection who safeguard citizens’ lives, “often in very difficult conditions.”
“It’s true that the country has advanced greatly in resources. However, there is still much progress to be made, especially when so many are discussing artificial intelligence and new technologies. When confronted with the current resources, we don’t understand why there isn’t more investment to allow for more efficient detection, prevention, and immediate firefighting,” he emphasized.
“People’s lives are the most essential asset, and while the country might lack funds for many needs, there should be no shortage for civil protection, firefighting, and our firefighters,” Seguro asserted.
The presidential candidate also called for administrative coherence among all regional authorities.
“Sometimes, with limited funds, it’s possible to deploy resources more efficiently, and then new technologies can enhance detection capacities, especially in rural areas, providing more information to those on the operations field.”
When questioned about debts to firefighters, António José Seguro insisted that the State should be accountable and uphold its commitments.
“Honest individuals keep their word, and that’s what I need to say. I understand there might not be money for everything, but if the State cannot uphold commitments, it can’t pass that responsibility onto the firefighters. It must take it on,” he stated.
Seguro emphasized that priorities are necessary when resources are limited.
“My question is: Is protecting the health and lives of the Portuguese a priority or not? It is. Thus, funds cannot be lacking here.”
Regarding the announcement of bonuses for pensioners and retirees, Seguro stated that as a presidential candidate, he should allow space for parties and the government to address these matters.
“Nevertheless, I would like more ordinary measures than extraordinary ones in Portugal. Pensioners and retirees would be happier knowing what they can rely on rather than facing an extraordinary contribution or aid. I leave the timing to the parties, as that is their role, not mine as a presidential candidate,” he concluded.
