Controversial Changes to Madeira's Air Mobility Subsidy Approved

In a significant move affecting air travel for Madeira residents, the Portuguese Parliament has approved changes to the air mobility subsidy. The legislative alterations aim to remove the requirement for residents to have no debt to the tax authorities to qualify for the subsidy. This decision has ignited a political debate and raised concerns among local politicians and citizens alike.

The proposals, brought forward by the legislative assemblies of Madeira and the Azores, along with the Chega party, were passed despite opposition from the PSD and CDS parties, who supported a new model proposed by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. Notably, social-democratic deputies from the islands voted in favor, diverging from their mainland counterparts.

The changes have been met with criticism, especially from the CDS Madeira. The party issued a statement expressing their disapproval of what they see as a centralist approach that undermines the rights of island residents. José Manuel Rodrigues, president of CDS-M, emphasized the importance of maintaining affordable travel costs for Madeira's citizens without requiring upfront payments to the state.

Rodrigues highlighted that the current system, which demands residents pay the full fare upfront and later seek reimbursement, places an undue burden on citizens. He argued for a cap of 79 euros for regular passengers and 59 euros for students, insisting on the importance of hassle-free and fair access to mobility across the national territory.

The debate underscores ongoing tensions between the central government and the autonomous regions regarding the principle of territorial continuity, a key issue for island residents who rely heavily on accessible and affordable air travel to connect with mainland Portugal.

dnoticias.pt

dnoticias.pt

funchalnoticias.net