Former CDS-PP deputy Cecília Meireles remarked that the draft legislation presented by the Government “is not exactly an ultraliberal document.”
In an interview on SIC’s ‘Linhas Vermelhas’, Meireles noted that the core of the legislation, particularly regarding labor laws, envisages “more flexibility in fixed-term hiring, working hours, and especially in collective bargaining”, which she believes could benefit both employers and employees.
She further expressed that the Socialist Party (PS) has always “resisted changing some aspects of labor legislation”, attributing the economic success of the coalition government (“geringonça”) partly to the fact that these laws remained unchanged despite planned amendments.

Following the reactions to the removal of bereavement leave for miscarriage — which allows both parents three days off without loss of pay — Luís Montenegro’s administration described the proposed regime as “more favorable.” But is it?
Daniela Filipe | 08:19 – 29/07/2025
Concerning bereavement leave, which has sparked significant discussion, Cecília Meireles argues that the Government’s intent was to “simplify” legislation regarding pregnancy interruption. She believes that “miscarriage leave includes bereavement leave” and therefore, separate legislations are unnecessary.
She maintains that there is no “ideological signal,” but rather a “better attempt at legislation” by the government, adding that no one is trying to “undermine the rights of the spouse” of a woman who experiences a miscarriage.
Nevertheless, Meireles emphasizes the need to “make very clear” what changes are being made, so the Portuguese people understand the issues at hand.
When asked about a potential agreement between the PSD and Chega, she commented only on the “strategic necessity for the PS to try to convey that idea.”