The recent court decision preventing the Loures city council from demolishing homes in the Talude Militar neighborhood has sparked reactions. In a statement, José Luís Carneiro described the situation, emphasizing, “Illegal construction is not a solution to housing problems.”
Carneiro remarked that the Socialist Party understands the challenges faced by municipalities with precarious constructions, particularly concerning legal compliance and maintaining public safety. He stressed the need for balanced and humane solutions that preserve dignity, especially for the most vulnerable.
Highlighting the shared responsibility, the socialist leader called for government action, stating, “The government and the ministries of social security and housing must not ignore the challenges still facing the metropolitan mayors.”
The comments from the secretary-general of the Socialist Party follow the Lisbon Administrative Court’s ruling that Ricardo Leão’s administration in Loures is “prohibited from carrying out the demolition act” in the Talude Militar neighborhood.
The court provisionally accepted a protective measure filed by an attorney representing 14 residents, alleging “an urgent situation” and mandating immediate notification of its decision. The municipality has been given ten days to challenge the ruling.
The residents, including two individuals with illnesses, seven children, and a pregnant woman, have claimed they face the risk of homelessness and lack housing alternatives.
The attorney for the residents announced plans to file a criminal complaint against the council for “abuse of power and damage” as demolitions allegedly included homes protected by the court order. They will also seek compensation for the affected individuals.
