Emanuel Câmara Urges Regional Management of POSEI Funds for Madeira
Madeira GuideEmanuel Câmara, a PS-Madeira deputy, has challenged the Minister of Agriculture to support regional management of POSEI funds, highlighting disparities in fund distribution between Madeira and the Azores.
In a recent parliamentary session, Emanuel Câmara, a deputy from PS-Madeira, confronted José Manuel Fernandes, the Minister of Agriculture and Mar, regarding the European Commission's proposal to centralize community funds within Member States. Câmara emphasized the need for regional autonomy in managing the POSEI (Programme of Options Specifically Relating to Remoteness and Insularity) funds, crucial for supporting Madeira's agricultural sector.
Câmara urged the government to publicly defend an autonomous, reinforced POSEI managed directly by the regions. He questioned the minister on whether he supports centralizing these funds under the national government or maintaining regional autonomy, especially for Madeira, which has experienced significant funding cuts.
The deputy highlighted a perceived discrimination against Madeira in comparison to the Azores. In 2025, the national government covered funding shortfalls for the Azores through the State Budget, but Madeira did not receive similar support, resulting in a 75% cut in agricultural subsidies.
Emanuel Câmara's call for action comes amid the backdrop of the 50th anniversary of Madeira's Autonomy, a milestone prompting reflection on the efficacy and maturity of the island's institutions.
'Are you in favor of centralization in Lisbon, or do you support regional autonomy in managing POSEI?' questioned Câmara, highlighting a 'glaring lack of equity.'
The debate underscores ongoing tensions between regional and national governance over fund allocation, a critical issue for Madeira's agricultural and economic stability.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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