Madeira's Economic Secretary Calls for Government Intervention Amidst Leixões Port Crisis

In a pressing appeal, José Manuel Rodrigues, the Secretary of Economy for Madeira, has called on the national Government of Portugal to intervene in a supply chain crisis affecting the island. The crisis stems from a significant backlog at Leixões Port, a crucial hub for shipping goods to Madeira.

The situation at Leixões Port, located near Porto on the mainland, has reached a critical point due to a recent change in the port's IT system. This update has inadvertently led to severe operational disruptions, causing a massive accumulation of shipping containers. The port operator, TLC, has temporarily halted the acceptance of new containers due to space constraints, exacerbating the backlog.

Madeira relies heavily on shipments from the mainland for essential goods, making this disruption particularly concerning. The retention of cargo destined for the island is threatening the availability of vital supplies, which could have severe implications for both residents and the local economy, especially during the busy holiday season.

In response to this crisis, Rodrigues has reached out to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing, emphasizing the urgent need for a resolution. He described the situation as "unacceptable," highlighting the potential risks to Madeira's supply chain and urging immediate action from the national authorities.

This logistical impasse not only affects the daily lives of Madeira's residents but also poses a threat to its tourism-dependent economy. As a popular holiday destination, especially during the festive season, any disruption in supply could impact businesses reliant on tourist trade.

The government’s intervention is crucial to resolving this issue promptly. It remains to be seen how quickly national authorities can act to alleviate the backlog and restore normal operations at Leixões Port.

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