The government announced a set of measures on Thursday to urgently address the issues arising from the fires, which have been deemed insufficient. The main concern is not just their insufficiency but ensuring that even these measures are implemented,” stated Paulo Raimundo.
Speaking at a CDU rally in Laranjeiro for Almada’s municipal and assembly candidates, Raimundo claimed the country is “hanging by a thread,” burning annually with renewed promises at such times.
He added, “There was no mention of the 114 million euros cut from forest support last year.”
Addressing supporters of Luís Palma’s candidacy for the Almada Municipality at the rally, Raimundo shared his visit to Ponte da Barca, describing it as a desolate scene, where locals informed him that promises made post-2022 fires to stabilize the soils remain unfulfilled.
“This is not how progress is made. Announced measures, however insufficient, must be implemented to support the affected communities, firefighters, and small producers,” he emphasized.
Paulo Raimundo insisted that “the country doesn’t need more plans, working groups, or technical committees; what is needed is the implementation of decisions.”
“Regarding forests, the national interest must prevail over the interests of large economic groups,” he stressed.
The government approved a framework of 45 measures at an extraordinary Council of Ministers meeting in Viseu on Thursday, targeting large-scale fires affecting family and business assets and the economy. These measures aim to rapidly and efficiently support affected regions and individuals.
Since July, mainland Portugal has been afflicted by numerous significant rural fires, especially in the North and Center regions.
The fires have resulted in three fatalities, including a firefighter, numerous injuries—some severe—and have partially or completely destroyed primary and secondary residences, as well as agricultural and forestry areas.
Portugal activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism, allowing access to two Fire Boss planes and a Super Puma helicopter, with an additional two Canadair planes expected to arrive today.
According to provisional official data, approximately 234,000 hectares have burned across the country as of August 22, with over 53,000 hectares lost to a fire originating in Arganil.
GC (JLS/JGA) // MCL
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