Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
Press release
Press release
Secretaria Regional do Ambiente e Ação Climática
Press release
Press release
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Regional Government invests €8.1 million in expansion and refurbishment of Antero de Quental Secondary School
Regional Government invests €8.1 million in expansion and refurbishment of Antero de Quental Secondary School
Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights upgrading as priority to modernise public services
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights upgrading as priority to modernise public services
Nota de Imprensa
June 3, 2026 Press release Following the statement issued today by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Angra do Heroísmo (CCIAH), the Regional Inspectorate of Economic Activities (IRAE) considers it necessary, for the sake of truth and public trust, to provide the following clarifications: 1. IRAE reiterates that its actions are strictly bound by the principles of professionalism, proportionality and good faith, ensuring that all inspection activities are conducted with technical rigour, impartiality and absolute respect for economic operators. Inspection activities are carried out in accordance with the legal framework applicable to economic activities in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, namely the Regional Implementing Decree no. 20/2024/A of November 18, which defines the Inspectorate’s powers in matters of economic supervision, food safety and consumer protection. 2. IRAE inspectors carry out their duties with balance, courtesy and strict compliance with legal standards, ensuring that every intervention safeguards public health and food safety, promotes fair competition, respects the dignity of business owners and workers, and minimises disruption to the normal operation of establishments. Therefore, IRAE rejects any accusation of inappropriate or disproportionate behaviour that falls short of the standards of conduct required of its professionals. 3. Regarding the incident reported on the island of São Jorge, it is important to make it absolutely clear that no IRAE inspector was present during the inspection action in question, and the Inspectorate did not order the closure of the establishment concerned. The suspension of operations was not the result of any action taken by IRAE, so it is incorrect to associate this Inspectorate with the events reported. 4. IRAE maintains an institutional dialogue, based on cooperation and transparency, with the Azorean business community, reiterating its full willingness to provide clarification, promote information campaigns and enhance the predictability of inspection procedures. 5. This Inspectorate will continue to carry out its duties with rigour, impartiality and a sense of public service, ensuring consumer protection, economic compliance, food safety and confidence in the markets, whilst rejecting interpretations that do not correspond to the factual reality or the legal framework governing its activities.
June 3, 2026 Press release Following the statement issued today by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Angra do Heroísmo (CCIAH), the Regional Inspectorate of Economic Activities (IRAE) considers it necessary, for the sake of truth and public trust, to provide the following clarifications: 1. IRAE reiterates that its actions are strictly bound by the principles of professionalism, proportionality and good faith, ensuring that all inspection activities are conducted with technical rigour, impartiality and absolute respect for economic operators. Inspection activities are carried out in accordance with the legal framework applicable to economic activities in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, namely the Regional Implementing Decree no. 20/2024/A of November 18, which defines the Inspectorate’s powers in matters of economic supervision, food safety and consumer protection. 2. IRAE inspectors carry out their duties with balance, courtesy and strict compliance with legal standards, ensuring that every intervention safeguards public health and food safety, promotes fair competition, respects the dignity of business owners and workers, and minimises disruption to the normal operation of establishments. Therefore, IRAE rejects any accusation of inappropriate or disproportionate behaviour that falls short of the standards of conduct required of its professionals. 3. Regarding the incident reported on the island of São Jorge, it is important to make it absolutely clear that no IRAE inspector was present during the inspection action in question, and the Inspectorate did not order the closure of the establishment concerned. The suspension of operations was not the result of any action taken by IRAE, so it is incorrect to associate this Inspectorate with the events reported. 4. IRAE maintains an institutional dialogue, based on cooperation and transparency, with the Azorean business community, reiterating its full willingness to provide clarification, promote information campaigns and enhance the predictability of inspection procedures. 5. This Inspectorate will continue to carry out its duties with rigour, impartiality and a sense of public service, ensuring consumer protection, economic compliance, food safety and confidence in the markets, whilst rejecting interpretations that do not correspond to the factual reality or the legal framework governing its activities.
Nota de Imprensa
June 3, 2026 Press release In light of the statements made public following the editorial published in the "Diário Insular" newspaper on May 30, and to provide rigorous and transparent evidence of the correct framework for the actions taken by the civil protection entities during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the Regional Government of the Azores, through the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, considers it essential to provide the following factual clarifications: 1. First and foremost, it is important to clarify that, throughout the entire period of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the scientific information provided by CIVISA – Centre for Information and Seismovolcanic Surveillance of the Azores, the competent authority in this matter, has never pointed to a scenario of imminent eruption. Specifically, none of the volcanic systems on Terceira Island has reached the V4 alert level (pre-eruption), as demonstrated by the record of alert level changes, which is presented below: Summary of Alert Levels Santa Bárbara Volcano Terceira Western Fissure Volcanic System July 30, 2022 - Raised to V2 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V1 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V3 October 3, 2025 - Raised to V2 December 4, 2024 - Lowered to V2 November 24, 2025 - Raised to V3 November 5, 2025 - Raised to V3 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 2. It is important to note that the editorial published by "Diário Insular" on Tuesday, June 2, acknowledges that the experts it consulted did not indicate an imminent eruption, and even admitted the existence of precursor signs that would make it possible to anticipate a potential event and activate measures to protect the population. This context contrasts with the initial editorial published on May 30, which suggested an imminent risk and scenarios with a high probability of loss of life. It stated that “an area (...) remained at risk of being affected by lava flows throughout that time” and that “official bodies with civil protection responsibilities estimated the probability of fatalities in such an event and pointed to alarming figures.” 3. Similarly, it is important to clarify that the Regional Government of the Azores has not produced, nor is it aware of the existence of, any official studies or assessments estimating the occurrence of fatalities in the scenarios considered during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island. No documents were drawn up, within the scope of the activities of the regional authorities responsible for civil protection, that pointed to “alarming figures” for deaths or to projections of that sort. 4. It should also be noted that all geological risk mapping for the Autonomous Region of the Azores is public and freely accessible, and is available for consultation on the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service website at (https://www.prociv.azores.gov.pt/operacoes/documentos/) to any citizen, organisation or media outlet. This information is produced and disseminated with the specific aim of raising awareness of natural hazards and supporting the population's preparedness and safety. 5. Regarding the Raminho road, it is also important to clarify that its closure was a direct consequence of the earthquake that occurred on January 14, 2024, based on objective and duly assessed structural safety reasons. This was a technical decision, justified and absolutely in line with the duty to protect human life. 6. Consequently, measures were adopted from the outset to mitigate the impacts of this decision, notably through the upgrading of an alternative route. More importantly, a procedure was established to ensure that the section remained partially clear, so that it could be quickly reopened to traffic in the event of an emergency and to ensure the evacuation of the population whenever necessary. This was a coordinated process between the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Regional Directorate for Public Works, and the Angra do Heroísmo Municipal Council. 7. At the same time, a population evacuation plan, an innovative tool in the regional context, was developed and put into operation. This plan provides for its activation via a text messaging system. In addition, it sets out the responsibilities of all the bodies involved clearly and immediately, ensuring a coordinated, rapid and effective response should the need arise. This work was not merely theoretical: it was tested in the field through multiple drills. 8. In this context, we highlight the TOURO24 drill, held in June 2024, designed to test the response capacity of the Regional Civil Protection System in the face of complex scenarios of a seismic-volcanic event. As part of its preparation, various operational scenarios were developed, including scenarios involving lava flows associated with the fissure zone on Terceira Island, with projections for different areas of the territory and, consequently, the need to activate population evacuation procedures. This work was complemented by specific population evacuation drills, namely BASALTO 24.4, held in October 2024 in the parish of Cinco Ribeiras, and BASALTO 25.3, held in September 2025 in the parish of Biscoitos. 9. It is also important to highlight the ongoing outreach work with the public, involving several meetings and public information sessions, particularly in the parishes located in the vicinity of the Santa Bárbara Volcano, ensuring that citizens have access to clear and appropriate information proportional to the actual risk. Communication has always been guided by criteria of rigour and responsibility, avoiding unjustified alarmism. 10. In this context, the Regional Government categorically rejects any suggestion of withholding information. It is reiterated that all actions taken were based on technical and scientific information validated by the competent authorities. They were conducted with full institutional transparency and a constant concern to keep the public adequately informed about developments of the situation. 11. The Regional Government fully respects freedom of the press and recognises the essential role of public scrutiny in a democratic society. Such scrutiny is, however, particularly relevant when it is based on factual information that is technically sound and properly put into context. 12. The actions of the Regional Government and its departments have, at every stage, been guided by responsibility, technical expertise, rigorous planning and transparency. The management of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island has been conducted based on the best scientific information available at any given time, through ongoing monitoring, planning, operational preparedness and communication with the public. 13. The facts demonstrate that contingency plans, evacuation mechanisms, operational drills, decision-support mapping and regular public awareness campaigns have been developed, always with the primary goal of protecting human lives and safeguarding the safety of the population. These initiatives have, in fact, been widely disseminated throughout the entire process, both by the Regional Government and local authorities, many of them covered and reported on by the media themselves. As such, their existence, content and implementation are a matter of public record, widely known and easily verifiable.
June 3, 2026 Press release In light of the statements made public following the editorial published in the "Diário Insular" newspaper on May 30, and to provide rigorous and transparent evidence of the correct framework for the actions taken by the civil protection entities during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the Regional Government of the Azores, through the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, considers it essential to provide the following factual clarifications: 1. First and foremost, it is important to clarify that, throughout the entire period of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the scientific information provided by CIVISA – Centre for Information and Seismovolcanic Surveillance of the Azores, the competent authority in this matter, has never pointed to a scenario of imminent eruption. Specifically, none of the volcanic systems on Terceira Island has reached the V4 alert level (pre-eruption), as demonstrated by the record of alert level changes, which is presented below: Summary of Alert Levels Santa Bárbara Volcano Terceira Western Fissure Volcanic System July 30, 2022 - Raised to V2 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V1 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V3 October 3, 2025 - Raised to V2 December 4, 2024 - Lowered to V2 November 24, 2025 - Raised to V3 November 5, 2025 - Raised to V3 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 2. It is important to note that the editorial published by "Diário Insular" on Tuesday, June 2, acknowledges that the experts it consulted did not indicate an imminent eruption, and even admitted the existence of precursor signs that would make it possible to anticipate a potential event and activate measures to protect the population. This context contrasts with the initial editorial published on May 30, which suggested an imminent risk and scenarios with a high probability of loss of life. It stated that “an area (...) remained at risk of being affected by lava flows throughout that time” and that “official bodies with civil protection responsibilities estimated the probability of fatalities in such an event and pointed to alarming figures.” 3. Similarly, it is important to clarify that the Regional Government of the Azores has not produced, nor is it aware of the existence of, any official studies or assessments estimating the occurrence of fatalities in the scenarios considered during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island. No documents were drawn up, within the scope of the activities of the regional authorities responsible for civil protection, that pointed to “alarming figures” for deaths or to projections of that sort. 4. It should also be noted that all geological risk mapping for the Autonomous Region of the Azores is public and freely accessible, and is available for consultation on the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service website at (https://www.prociv.azores.gov.pt/operacoes/documentos/) to any citizen, organisation or media outlet. This information is produced and disseminated with the specific aim of raising awareness of natural hazards and supporting the population's preparedness and safety. 5. Regarding the Raminho road, it is also important to clarify that its closure was a direct consequence of the earthquake that occurred on January 14, 2024, based on objective and duly assessed structural safety reasons. This was a technical decision, justified and absolutely in line with the duty to protect human life. 6. Consequently, measures were adopted from the outset to mitigate the impacts of this decision, notably through the upgrading of an alternative route. More importantly, a procedure was established to ensure that the section remained partially clear, so that it could be quickly reopened to traffic in the event of an emergency and to ensure the evacuation of the population whenever necessary. This was a coordinated process between the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Regional Directorate for Public Works, and the Angra do Heroísmo Municipal Council. 7. At the same time, a population evacuation plan, an innovative tool in the regional context, was developed and put into operation. This plan provides for its activation via a text messaging system. In addition, it sets out the responsibilities of all the bodies involved clearly and immediately, ensuring a coordinated, rapid and effective response should the need arise. This work was not merely theoretical: it was tested in the field through multiple drills. 8. In this context, we highlight the TOURO24 drill, held in June 2024, designed to test the response capacity of the Regional Civil Protection System in the face of complex scenarios of a seismic-volcanic event. As part of its preparation, various operational scenarios were developed, including scenarios involving lava flows associated with the fissure zone on Terceira Island, with projections for different areas of the territory and, consequently, the need to activate population evacuation procedures. This work was complemented by specific population evacuation drills, namely BASALTO 24.4, held in October 2024 in the parish of Cinco Ribeiras, and BASALTO 25.3, held in September 2025 in the parish of Biscoitos. 9. It is also important to highlight the ongoing outreach work with the public, involving several meetings and public information sessions, particularly in the parishes located in the vicinity of the Santa Bárbara Volcano, ensuring that citizens have access to clear and appropriate information proportional to the actual risk. Communication has always been guided by criteria of rigour and responsibility, avoiding unjustified alarmism. 10. In this context, the Regional Government categorically rejects any suggestion of withholding information. It is reiterated that all actions taken were based on technical and scientific information validated by the competent authorities. They were conducted with full institutional transparency and a constant concern to keep the public adequately informed about developments of the situation. 11. The Regional Government fully respects freedom of the press and recognises the essential role of public scrutiny in a democratic society. Such scrutiny is, however, particularly relevant when it is based on factual information that is technically sound and properly put into context. 12. The actions of the Regional Government and its departments have, at every stage, been guided by responsibility, technical expertise, rigorous planning and transparency. The management of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island has been conducted based on the best scientific information available at any given time, through ongoing monitoring, planning, operational preparedness and communication with the public. 13. The facts demonstrate that contingency plans, evacuation mechanisms, operational drills, decision-support mapping and regular public awareness campaigns have been developed, always with the primary goal of protecting human lives and safeguarding the safety of the population. These initiatives have, in fact, been widely disseminated throughout the entire process, both by the Regional Government and local authorities, many of them covered and reported on by the media themselves. As such, their existence, content and implementation are a matter of public record, widely known and easily verifiable.
Nota de Imprensa
June 3, 2026 Regional Government invests €8.1 million in expansion and refurbishment of Antero de Quental Secondary School The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, has just authorised the launch of an international public tender for the expansion and refurbishment of the Antero de Quental Secondary School in Ponta Delgada, under a design-build contract, corresponding to an overall investment of €8.1 million. The procedure will be conducted by the Regional Directorate for Public Works. It represents a strategic intervention towards the structural and functional modernisation of one of the Region’s most important educational establishments. With a base price of €7 million, plus VAT (€8.1 million), this project will involve the expansion and refurbishment of the school, delivering clear improvements in teaching conditions, the organisation of spaces and the overall efficiency of the infrastructure, bringing it into line with the requirements of the contemporary educational model. The project is primarily intended to boost the school’s capacity with the new building and classrooms, which will address the current shortage of teaching spaces. This will remove teaching activities from the historic Fonte Bela Palace, a listed building that has suffered significant wear and tear due to intensive use by the school community. Subsequently, in a second phase, an intervention is planned for this historic building. With the construction of new facilities, the pressure on this heritage building will be significantly reduced, allowing it to be enhanced and put to uses more in keeping with its historical and architectural value. The project also includes new educational spaces tailored to current needs and the construction of an indoor sports hall, thus improving facilities for sporting activities and the full development of students. As part of the refurbishment, there are also plans to reorganise and modernise the cafeteria areas, which will be located in a single space in the south-east courtyard, improving capacity, functionality and comfort for the school community. The project will be carried out under a design-build contract, a model that combines the design and construction phases, ensuring faster completion, better cost control and a more efficient response to technical requirements, whilst guaranteeing quality and precision in implementation. It should be noted that the initial phase focuses primarily on expanding the school's capacity, specifically through the construction of new classrooms, increasing teaching capacity (to address the shortage of classrooms), creating new support facilities, including a canteen and a snack bar, and redesigning the south/east courtyard area. This is a strategic phase, as the transfer of students to new premises will create the conditions for subsequent work on the old building. In a later phase, the works will proceed with a major refurbishment of the old structure (the palace), the renovation of the most deteriorated areas, and the potential restoration of heritage features and modernisation of spaces. With this investment, the Government of the Azores reiterates its commitment to upgrading public schools, improving learning conditions and safeguarding heritage, with a view to promoting a more modern, functional and future-oriented educational infrastructure.
June 3, 2026 Regional Government invests €8.1 million in expansion and refurbishment of Antero de Quental Secondary School The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, has just authorised the launch of an international public tender for the expansion and refurbishment of the Antero de Quental Secondary School in Ponta Delgada, under a design-build contract, corresponding to an overall investment of €8.1 million. The procedure will be conducted by the Regional Directorate for Public Works. It represents a strategic intervention towards the structural and functional modernisation of one of the Region’s most important educational establishments. With a base price of €7 million, plus VAT (€8.1 million), this project will involve the expansion and refurbishment of the school, delivering clear improvements in teaching conditions, the organisation of spaces and the overall efficiency of the infrastructure, bringing it into line with the requirements of the contemporary educational model. The project is primarily intended to boost the school’s capacity with the new building and classrooms, which will address the current shortage of teaching spaces. This will remove teaching activities from the historic Fonte Bela Palace, a listed building that has suffered significant wear and tear due to intensive use by the school community. Subsequently, in a second phase, an intervention is planned for this historic building. With the construction of new facilities, the pressure on this heritage building will be significantly reduced, allowing it to be enhanced and put to uses more in keeping with its historical and architectural value. The project also includes new educational spaces tailored to current needs and the construction of an indoor sports hall, thus improving facilities for sporting activities and the full development of students. As part of the refurbishment, there are also plans to reorganise and modernise the cafeteria areas, which will be located in a single space in the south-east courtyard, improving capacity, functionality and comfort for the school community. The project will be carried out under a design-build contract, a model that combines the design and construction phases, ensuring faster completion, better cost control and a more efficient response to technical requirements, whilst guaranteeing quality and precision in implementation. It should be noted that the initial phase focuses primarily on expanding the school's capacity, specifically through the construction of new classrooms, increasing teaching capacity (to address the shortage of classrooms), creating new support facilities, including a canteen and a snack bar, and redesigning the south/east courtyard area. This is a strategic phase, as the transfer of students to new premises will create the conditions for subsequent work on the old building. In a later phase, the works will proceed with a major refurbishment of the old structure (the palace), the renovation of the most deteriorated areas, and the potential restoration of heritage features and modernisation of spaces. With this investment, the Government of the Azores reiterates its commitment to upgrading public schools, improving learning conditions and safeguarding heritage, with a view to promoting a more modern, functional and future-oriented educational infrastructure.
Nota de Imprensa
June 2, 2026 José Manuel Bolieiro highlights upgrading as priority to modernise public services The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, visited today the Nordeste Health Centre, where renovation works are underway. The project involved an investment of about €1 million and has improved the safety, functionality and efficiency of this healthcare facility, which serves the local community. The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the importance of the works, which has resolved various structural and construction issues identified in the building, ensuring better conditions for patients and staff. “With this refurbishment, we have managed to upgrade this health centre in terms of its infrastructural safety and the use of environmentally friendly solutions. We now have better conditions for providing healthcare and working here,” stated José Manuel Bolieiro. The works included the structural refurbishment of reinforced concrete elements, the correction of construction defects, the restoration of façades and roofs, the renewal of the water supply and firefighting systems, and the installation of new systems for the production and distribution of hot water. In addition, the intervention covered the modernisation of critical technical infrastructure and improvements in areas such as the Basic Emergency Unit, outpatient unit, physiotherapy and radiology units, and administrative services. José Manuel Bolieiro took the opportunity to call for “greater emphasis” on renovation projects in future EU funding instruments, defending that many of the regions’ needs involve the renovation and adaptation of existing infrastructure. “I have been working to raise awareness among European authorities so that the new multiannual financial framework is capable of supporting not only new construction, but also the renovation, refurbishment and optimisation of existing infrastructure. In many cases, our own budgets are insufficient to address these needs,” he stressed. The President of the Regional Government added that this is a strategic approach that the Azorean Government intends to continue pursuing in different areas of governance. “With this investment, we are doing precisely that: renovating, refurbishing and upgrading what already exists. It is a commitment we wish to continue developing in key sectors such as health and education, where we have buildings that are already in place and operational, but which require modernisation and adaptation to current requirements,” he stated. The visit was also an opportunity to highlight the achievements of the Nordeste Health Centre, which continues to establish itself as a vital facility for healthcare in the municipality. In 2025, the centre conducted a total of 58,194 consultations, including 20,465 GP consultations, 7,066 admissions to the Basic Emergency Unit, and 25,175 nursing consultations. Additionally, there were 312 oral health consultations, 2,367 physiotherapy sessions, 466 nutrition consultations, 704 psychology consultations, 535 cardiopulmonary tests, and 983 radiology tests. The Nordeste Health Centre currently has 4,924 registered users, of whom 4,883 have been assigned a GP, corresponding to a coverage rate of 99.2%, one of the highest figures in the Autonomous Region of the Azores. José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted that these figures demonstrate the centre’s importance to the local population and the need to continue investing in improving healthcare provision. “When we invest in infrastructure, we are investing in people. We are creating better conditions for healthcare professionals to carry out their work and ensuring a better service for the public, with greater accessibility, higher quality and improved care,” he emphasised. In addition to this investment, an X-ray machine worth €300,000 will be installed to boost diagnostic capacity in primary healthcare and avoid unnecessary travel for patients to other healthcare facilities. Alongside the works undertaken by the Regional Directorate for Public Works, the São Miguel Island Health Unit also carried out additional works deemed essential to maximise the benefits of the refurbishment works. These include the replacement of hospital-grade vinyl flooring in several clinical areas and the waterproofing of a flat roof. In-house resources were also mobilised for interior painting, furniture refurbishment, equipment maintenance and minor functional adaptations to the spaces, without the need for external contractors.
June 2, 2026 José Manuel Bolieiro highlights upgrading as priority to modernise public services The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, visited today the Nordeste Health Centre, where renovation works are underway. The project involved an investment of about €1 million and has improved the safety, functionality and efficiency of this healthcare facility, which serves the local community. The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the importance of the works, which has resolved various structural and construction issues identified in the building, ensuring better conditions for patients and staff. “With this refurbishment, we have managed to upgrade this health centre in terms of its infrastructural safety and the use of environmentally friendly solutions. We now have better conditions for providing healthcare and working here,” stated José Manuel Bolieiro. The works included the structural refurbishment of reinforced concrete elements, the correction of construction defects, the restoration of façades and roofs, the renewal of the water supply and firefighting systems, and the installation of new systems for the production and distribution of hot water. In addition, the intervention covered the modernisation of critical technical infrastructure and improvements in areas such as the Basic Emergency Unit, outpatient unit, physiotherapy and radiology units, and administrative services. José Manuel Bolieiro took the opportunity to call for “greater emphasis” on renovation projects in future EU funding instruments, defending that many of the regions’ needs involve the renovation and adaptation of existing infrastructure. “I have been working to raise awareness among European authorities so that the new multiannual financial framework is capable of supporting not only new construction, but also the renovation, refurbishment and optimisation of existing infrastructure. In many cases, our own budgets are insufficient to address these needs,” he stressed. The President of the Regional Government added that this is a strategic approach that the Azorean Government intends to continue pursuing in different areas of governance. “With this investment, we are doing precisely that: renovating, refurbishing and upgrading what already exists. It is a commitment we wish to continue developing in key sectors such as health and education, where we have buildings that are already in place and operational, but which require modernisation and adaptation to current requirements,” he stated. The visit was also an opportunity to highlight the achievements of the Nordeste Health Centre, which continues to establish itself as a vital facility for healthcare in the municipality. In 2025, the centre conducted a total of 58,194 consultations, including 20,465 GP consultations, 7,066 admissions to the Basic Emergency Unit, and 25,175 nursing consultations. Additionally, there were 312 oral health consultations, 2,367 physiotherapy sessions, 466 nutrition consultations, 704 psychology consultations, 535 cardiopulmonary tests, and 983 radiology tests. The Nordeste Health Centre currently has 4,924 registered users, of whom 4,883 have been assigned a GP, corresponding to a coverage rate of 99.2%, one of the highest figures in the Autonomous Region of the Azores. José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted that these figures demonstrate the centre’s importance to the local population and the need to continue investing in improving healthcare provision. “When we invest in infrastructure, we are investing in people. We are creating better conditions for healthcare professionals to carry out their work and ensuring a better service for the public, with greater accessibility, higher quality and improved care,” he emphasised. In addition to this investment, an X-ray machine worth €300,000 will be installed to boost diagnostic capacity in primary healthcare and avoid unnecessary travel for patients to other healthcare facilities. Alongside the works undertaken by the Regional Directorate for Public Works, the São Miguel Island Health Unit also carried out additional works deemed essential to maximise the benefits of the refurbishment works. These include the replacement of hospital-grade vinyl flooring in several clinical areas and the waterproofing of a flat roof. In-house resources were also mobilised for interior painting, furniture refurbishment, equipment maintenance and minor functional adaptations to the spaces, without the need for external contractors.
Nota de Imprensa
June 2, 2026 Regional Government recognises importance of forest rangers’ work and announces recruitment of 20 new staff members The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, announced the launch of a new recruitment procedure to hire 20 forest rangers, a contingent that will support the 53 professionals currently serving the Region. The announcement was made during the celebrations for Regional Forest Ranger Day, recently marked in the municipality of Nordeste, São Miguel Island. The ceremony, which was also attended by the Regional Director for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning, Nuno Sousa, took place at the Nordeste Nursery Recreational Forest Reserve. The chosen location holds strong historical symbolism, as it was there that forestry services began their work in 1952, with the implementation of the afforestation project for the São Miguel forest perimeter. In his speech, António Ventura highlighted the role of forest rangers as a “symbol of autonomy, embodying the nature and rural identity of the Azores,” pointing out the importance of these professionals in the Region’s development. “It is important to acknowledge the importance of the multifunctional role of forest rangers, who work across a wide range of economic, recreational, social and environmental areas,” stated the government official. The Regional Secretary recalled the historical contribution of these professionals to the social and economic progress of the islands: “Forest rangers have been part of the development of the Azores; they have been instrumental in opening up many paths, providing access for agriculture and livestock farming as well as for communities, and have long ensured awareness of forest conservation,” he emphasised. Noting that forests cover around 30% of the Region’s territory, António Ventura stressed that “the population of the Azores considers forest rangers as guardians and promoters of forests and their unique biodiversity.” Their wide-ranging responsibilities include the production of plants in nurseries, the restoration and maintenance of common pastures, the supervision of works on rural roads, the management and monitoring of hunting and fishing resources in ponds and streams, as well as carrying out censuses. On the same occasion, the Regional Director for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning addressed the forest rangers present, praising their institutional role. “On this day, it is important to recognise not only the work you do, but also the example you set. Your uniform symbolises commitment, authority and public service, embodying a history built up over decades that must be honoured and preserved,” emphasised Nuno Sousa, addressing those present. Regional Forest Ranger Day was established in 1997 as a form of public recognition for the role played by these professionals in the conservation and rational use of the Azores’ natural resources for more than five decades.
June 2, 2026 Regional Government recognises importance of forest rangers’ work and announces recruitment of 20 new staff members The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, announced the launch of a new recruitment procedure to hire 20 forest rangers, a contingent that will support the 53 professionals currently serving the Region. The announcement was made during the celebrations for Regional Forest Ranger Day, recently marked in the municipality of Nordeste, São Miguel Island. The ceremony, which was also attended by the Regional Director for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning, Nuno Sousa, took place at the Nordeste Nursery Recreational Forest Reserve. The chosen location holds strong historical symbolism, as it was there that forestry services began their work in 1952, with the implementation of the afforestation project for the São Miguel forest perimeter. In his speech, António Ventura highlighted the role of forest rangers as a “symbol of autonomy, embodying the nature and rural identity of the Azores,” pointing out the importance of these professionals in the Region’s development. “It is important to acknowledge the importance of the multifunctional role of forest rangers, who work across a wide range of economic, recreational, social and environmental areas,” stated the government official. The Regional Secretary recalled the historical contribution of these professionals to the social and economic progress of the islands: “Forest rangers have been part of the development of the Azores; they have been instrumental in opening up many paths, providing access for agriculture and livestock farming as well as for communities, and have long ensured awareness of forest conservation,” he emphasised. Noting that forests cover around 30% of the Region’s territory, António Ventura stressed that “the population of the Azores considers forest rangers as guardians and promoters of forests and their unique biodiversity.” Their wide-ranging responsibilities include the production of plants in nurseries, the restoration and maintenance of common pastures, the supervision of works on rural roads, the management and monitoring of hunting and fishing resources in ponds and streams, as well as carrying out censuses. On the same occasion, the Regional Director for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning addressed the forest rangers present, praising their institutional role. “On this day, it is important to recognise not only the work you do, but also the example you set. Your uniform symbolises commitment, authority and public service, embodying a history built up over decades that must be honoured and preserved,” emphasised Nuno Sousa, addressing those present. Regional Forest Ranger Day was established in 1997 as a form of public recognition for the role played by these professionals in the conservation and rational use of the Azores’ natural resources for more than five decades.
