Back to News
News

Chega Advocates for Direct Payment Transition of Mobility Subsidy in Madeira

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
January 12, 2026
3 min read

The Chega party calls for the transition of the Social Mobility Subsidy to a direct payment system in Madeira, aiming to simplify and enhance social equity in travel costs for island residents.

The Chega party has put forth a proposal to alter the current structure of the Social Mobility Subsidy in Madeira, advocating for a shift to a direct payment system. This change aims to mitigate the bureaucratic challenges and perceived social injustices associated with the current subsidy mechanism.

Currently, the Social Mobility Subsidy is a governmental tool designed to compensate for the additional travel costs incurred due to Madeira's insular nature. However, Chega argues that the system has become excessively bureaucratic, thus diminishing its effectiveness and fairness.

Miguel Castro, a representative from Chega, emphasized that transitioning to a direct payment model is crucial for ensuring simplicity and genuine social equity. Under the proposed system, beneficiaries would only pay the final ticket price, benefitting from an immediate discount or an equivalent functional solution at the point of purchase.

This proposal comes at a time when Madeira is preparing for upcoming elections, adding a layer of political urgency to the debate. Chega’s push for immediate reform reflects broader concerns about accessibility and equality in island mobility.

The call for change underscores ongoing discussions about the efficiency of subsidies and their role in supporting the socio-economic fabric of Madeira. As the island gears up for potential policy shifts, stakeholders are closely monitoring the developments.

Sources

Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

Author