MEP Sérgio Gonçalves Challenges EU Council on Transportation Priorities
Madeira GuideMEP Sérgio Gonçalves actively questioned the Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council on transportation priorities, emphasizing passenger rights and regional connectivity.
In a significant move for Madeira and other regions reliant on transport connectivity, MEP Sérgio Gonçalves questioned the Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council on January 27, 2026, regarding its transportation priorities. This inquiry took place during a session of the European Parliament's Committee on Transport and Tourism.
Gonçalves highlighted the ongoing negotiations concerning passenger rights, particularly regarding compensation for delays. He urged the Council to reconsider its stance to align more closely with the European Parliament's position, which opposes extending the minimum delay periods for compensation.
The session, attended by Cyprus's Minister of Transport Alexis Vafeades and other key figures, also touched on the European Strategy for Ports, set to be unveiled later this year. Gonçalves emphasized the need for substantial investment to support connectivity and decarbonization efforts. As an island nation, Cyprus's presidency is seen as potentially more sympathetic to the challenges faced by ultraperipheral regions like Madeira.
Finally, Gonçalves raised concerns about the temporary exemption from the Emissions Trading System (ETS) for outermost regions, seeking clarity on future support measures for decarbonization. His advocacy underscores Madeira's unique transportation challenges and its dependence on external connectivity.
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