Madeira's Ferry Future Uncertain as Political Tensions Rise
Madeira GuideÉlvio Sousa, leader of JPP, warns that the Portuguese Republic may abandon plans for a ferry connection between Madeira and the mainland, citing political centralism and past unfulfilled promises.
The ongoing debate over transportation links between Madeira and mainland Portugal has taken a new turn as Élvio Sousa, leader of the Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) party, expressed concerns about the future of the proposed ferry service. Speaking at a press conference at the Madeira Legislative Assembly, Sousa claimed that the Portuguese Republic might reject the ferry connection after prioritizing air travel.
Sousa's comments come amid growing dissatisfaction with what he describes as the centralist tendencies of the Portuguese government, led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. The issue revolves around the Social Mobility Subsidy, which Sousa argues has been mishandled, casting doubt on the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises to Madeira.
The proposed ferry service, a longstanding demand from Madeira's residents and businesses, was expected to enhance connectivity and boost tourism by providing an alternative to air travel. However, Sousa criticized the government's failure to initiate the public tender for the ferry service, as outlined in the 2025 State Budget.
Sousa further highlighted controversial statements made by Hugo Soares, a PSD parliamentary leader, which questioned the allocation of mainland tax revenues to subsidize travel for Madeira and Azores residents. These remarks, according to Sousa, undermine the constitutional rights of Madeirans and suggest a lack of genuine commitment to the region's development.
Adding to the frustration, Sousa noted that the government had only committed to a feasibility study for the ferry service, with preliminary conclusions drawn before spending the allocated €200,000. This, he argues, is indicative of the government's reluctance to support the project.
The JPP leader emphasized that if his party were in power, it would actively seek solutions for the ferry service, reinforcing its importance for Madeira's socio-economic growth.
"The centralist stance of the current government does not bode well for Madeira's ferry connection. The promises made are yet to be fulfilled," Sousa stated.
Sources
Madeira Guide
Author