Chega Criticizes Delays and Costs in Porto Santo Health Facility Project
Madeira GuideThe construction of the new Local Health Unit in Porto Santo has been delayed by three years, with costs soaring from €18 million to €35.5 million, as criticized by Chega's leader.
In a recent visit to Porto Santo, Hugo Nunes, the president of the Chega party, raised concerns over significant delays and cost overruns in the construction of the new Local Health Unit (ULS). The project, initially scheduled for completion in September 2025, has been postponed to the summer of 2028, with costs ballooning from the planned €18 million to an unexpected €35.5 million.
The new health facility, designed to serve the residents of Porto Santo, includes plans for a 5,250 square meters construction area, emergency services with a zero room, 17 consultation offices, 16 inpatient beds, 8 dialysis stations, and 20 beds in the continuing care wing.
"Passing from €18 to €35.5 million and delaying the delivery by three years is not an adjustment; it's a blow to public finances and a lack of respect for those who live here," stated Hugo Nunes.
Nunes criticized the Regional Government's management, attributing the delays to poor planning rather than external factors like international conflicts. He also highlighted the ongoing issues with public tenders, which he claims are often left unfilled due to either poor drafting or market cartelization.
The government has responded by promising to build functional housing to attract medical professionals to the island, yet Nunes described these promises as unfulfilled, pointing out the absence of any concrete studies or projects to support such initiatives.
The situation has sparked concerns among the local community, particularly since health services are deemed a top priority for the island, which is a popular destination for both residents and tourists alike.
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Madeira Guide
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