Debate Heats Up Over Proposed Sale of Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça
Madeira GuideMadeira's political scene is tense as parties clash over the proposed sale of Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça. The sale is intended to finance a new hospital, but faces strong opposition.
The political climate in Madeira has become increasingly charged following the announcement of a proposed sale of Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça. This historic hospital, located in the heart of Funchal, is at the center of a heated debate that has divided local political parties and sparked public interest.
The Controversial Proposal
The Regional Government's proposal to sell the hospital aims to fund the construction of a new Central and University Hospital in Madeira. This plan has been met with significant opposition from several political parties and local groups.
Iniciativa Liberal (IL) Madeira has called for a detailed assessment of the necessity of this sale and whether the hospital should remain under regional control. Gonçalo Maia Camelo, the sole IL deputy in the Regional Legislative Assembly, emphasized the importance of evaluating all options before proceeding with the sale.
Political Opposition
The Socialist Party (PS) has voiced strong opposition to the sale. Célia Pessegueiro, the party's president in Madeira, condemned the decision, highlighting the significant investments already made in the hospital's renovation. The PS has submitted a resolution in the legislative assembly to halt the sale and preserve the hospital's current functions.
Additionally, the LIVRE party has criticized the sale as an economic fallacy, arguing that the government's focus on luxury projects like the Faial golf course diverts essential resources from public healthcare. They advocate for using existing funds to maintain and repurpose the hospital for long-term care facilities.
Public Concerns and Alternatives
Opponents argue that the hospital could be adapted for other uses, such as long-term care, leveraging its existing infrastructure. The idea is to avoid the costly and potentially speculative sale of public assets.
With robust funding available from programs like Madeira 2030 and the Recovery and Resilience Plan, critics argue that the government should prioritize public health over luxury developments.
It is a mistake to sacrifice public health for luxury projects. The government must reconsider its priorities.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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