Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
Governo trabalha em soluções inclusivas para reforçar oferta habitacional nos Açores
Governo trabalha em soluções inclusivas para reforçar oferta habitacional nos Açores
Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional
Vice-President highlights “solid and ongoing” commitment to research centres at University of the Azores
Vice-President highlights “solid and ongoing” commitment to research centres at University of the Azores
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Press release
Press release
Presidência do Governo Regional
Regional Government reinforces Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade with new resources and regional investment in Civil Protection
Regional Government reinforces Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade with new resources and regional investment in Civil Protection
Nota de Imprensa
January 22, 2026 Governo trabalha em soluções inclusivas para reforçar oferta habitacional nos Açores A Secretária Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego afirmou esta quarta-feira que o “tempo do desinvestimento em habitação nos Açores acabou” e que o executivo de coligação PSD/CDS-PP/PPM “está a trabalhar em soluções inclusivas” para reforçar a oferta habitacional na Região e o acesso das famílias e jovens açorianos a habitação a preços compatíveis com os seus rendimentos. Durante uma sessão de divulgação das políticas públicas de habitação na Região, que decorreu em Vila Franca do Campo, na ilha de São Miguel, Maria João Carreiro destacou o investimento histórico em curso em novas respostas habitacionais financiadas pelo Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência, num total de 65 milhões de euros para 767 respostas habitacionais, onde se incluem reabilitações, construções e lotes. É o caso do empreendimento dos Foros Sol Mar, em Vila Franca do Campo, cujo concurso públicopara atribuição dos 23 apartamentos (quatro de tipologia T1, nove de tipologia T2 e 10 de tipologia T3), num investimento superior a 2,1 milhões, está a decorrer e termina no próximo dia 4 de fevereiro. Estes novos apartamentos, a exemplo de outras habitações construídas via PRR, vão ser cedidos às famílias em regime de arrendamento com opção de compra. A opção de compra pode ser exercida pelos arrendatários decorrido um ano da assinatura do contrato, para estimular a transição entre o mercado de arrendamento e a propriedade de habitação própria e permanente. “Reforçar a oferta habitacional, garantir maior acessibilidade e assegurar sustentabilidade a longo prazo é a prioridade do Governo dos Açores para a política regional de habitação, que é essencial para a estabilidade das famílias, para a fixação de pessoas nas freguesias e nos concelhos e para o desenvolvimento económico e social da Região”, afirmou a Secretária Regional. Entre as políticas públicas implementadas pelo Governo dos Açores para diferentes públicos e faixas etárias está a criação do regime de arrendamento com opção de compra, que passou a incluir como elegíveis os jovens e famílias de classe média até então excluídos dos apoios à habitação. Para este ano de 2026 foram revistos os coeficientes máximos dos rendimentos dos candidatos aos lotes infraestruturados e cedidos pela Região para construção de habitação, passando a incluir entre os elegíveis um casal jovem, com dois filhos, com rendimento bruto mensal de 3.100 euros ou um casal jovem, com um filho, com rendimento bruto mensal de 2.850 euros, até agora excluídos. Foi ainda criado um apoio, sob a forma de comparticipação financeira, a fundo perdido, para a aquisição de projetos de arquitetura e especialidades até ao limite máximo de cinco mil euros por beneficiário para a construção de habitação própria permanente. No que respeita à autoconstrução em lote cedido pela Região ou em lote privado, os apoios foram majorados em 25%, o que permite que um casal jovem, com dois filhos, com rendimentos brutos mensais de 2.500 euros, por exemplo, possa beneficiar de um apoio até 21 mil euros, em vez dos 16.500 euros que beneficiava até esta alteração em sede de Orçamento para 2026. Para o ano de 2026 foram ainda mantidas as majorações de 20% nos incentivos ao arrendamento e de 50% nos incentivos ao arrendamento para subarrendamento, o que permite reforçar os apoios à habitação quando as famílias mais precisam e promover mais e melhores respostas habitacionais. Estiveram presentes na sessão de divulgação das políticas de habitação nos Açores, aberta a todos os interessados, a Presidente da Câmara Municipal de Vila Franca do Campo, Graça Melo, o Diretor Regional da Habitação, Daniel Pavão, e presidentes de Junta de Freguesia do concelho.
January 22, 2026 Governo trabalha em soluções inclusivas para reforçar oferta habitacional nos Açores A Secretária Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego afirmou esta quarta-feira que o “tempo do desinvestimento em habitação nos Açores acabou” e que o executivo de coligação PSD/CDS-PP/PPM “está a trabalhar em soluções inclusivas” para reforçar a oferta habitacional na Região e o acesso das famílias e jovens açorianos a habitação a preços compatíveis com os seus rendimentos. Durante uma sessão de divulgação das políticas públicas de habitação na Região, que decorreu em Vila Franca do Campo, na ilha de São Miguel, Maria João Carreiro destacou o investimento histórico em curso em novas respostas habitacionais financiadas pelo Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência, num total de 65 milhões de euros para 767 respostas habitacionais, onde se incluem reabilitações, construções e lotes. É o caso do empreendimento dos Foros Sol Mar, em Vila Franca do Campo, cujo concurso públicopara atribuição dos 23 apartamentos (quatro de tipologia T1, nove de tipologia T2 e 10 de tipologia T3), num investimento superior a 2,1 milhões, está a decorrer e termina no próximo dia 4 de fevereiro. Estes novos apartamentos, a exemplo de outras habitações construídas via PRR, vão ser cedidos às famílias em regime de arrendamento com opção de compra. A opção de compra pode ser exercida pelos arrendatários decorrido um ano da assinatura do contrato, para estimular a transição entre o mercado de arrendamento e a propriedade de habitação própria e permanente. “Reforçar a oferta habitacional, garantir maior acessibilidade e assegurar sustentabilidade a longo prazo é a prioridade do Governo dos Açores para a política regional de habitação, que é essencial para a estabilidade das famílias, para a fixação de pessoas nas freguesias e nos concelhos e para o desenvolvimento económico e social da Região”, afirmou a Secretária Regional. Entre as políticas públicas implementadas pelo Governo dos Açores para diferentes públicos e faixas etárias está a criação do regime de arrendamento com opção de compra, que passou a incluir como elegíveis os jovens e famílias de classe média até então excluídos dos apoios à habitação. Para este ano de 2026 foram revistos os coeficientes máximos dos rendimentos dos candidatos aos lotes infraestruturados e cedidos pela Região para construção de habitação, passando a incluir entre os elegíveis um casal jovem, com dois filhos, com rendimento bruto mensal de 3.100 euros ou um casal jovem, com um filho, com rendimento bruto mensal de 2.850 euros, até agora excluídos. Foi ainda criado um apoio, sob a forma de comparticipação financeira, a fundo perdido, para a aquisição de projetos de arquitetura e especialidades até ao limite máximo de cinco mil euros por beneficiário para a construção de habitação própria permanente. No que respeita à autoconstrução em lote cedido pela Região ou em lote privado, os apoios foram majorados em 25%, o que permite que um casal jovem, com dois filhos, com rendimentos brutos mensais de 2.500 euros, por exemplo, possa beneficiar de um apoio até 21 mil euros, em vez dos 16.500 euros que beneficiava até esta alteração em sede de Orçamento para 2026. Para o ano de 2026 foram ainda mantidas as majorações de 20% nos incentivos ao arrendamento e de 50% nos incentivos ao arrendamento para subarrendamento, o que permite reforçar os apoios à habitação quando as famílias mais precisam e promover mais e melhores respostas habitacionais. Estiveram presentes na sessão de divulgação das políticas de habitação nos Açores, aberta a todos os interessados, a Presidente da Câmara Municipal de Vila Franca do Campo, Graça Melo, o Diretor Regional da Habitação, Daniel Pavão, e presidentes de Junta de Freguesia do concelho.
Nota de Imprensa
January 22, 2026 Vice-President highlights “solid and ongoing” commitment to research centres at University of the Azores The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, visited the Research and Development (R&D) units at the University of the Azores in Ponta Delgada on Wednesday, highlighting the Azorean Government's "solid and ongoing commitment" to these centres. Artur Lima visited six R&D units at the University of the Azores located on the Ponta Delgada Campus, during a visit aimed at strengthening ties with these centres as well as identifying existing challenges and opportunities. The programme included visits to the Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment (IVAR), CIBIO/Azores-Research Centre in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, Centre for the Humanities of the Azores (CHAM-Azores), the Interdisciplinary Centre for Social Sciences (CICS.NOVA.UAc), the Centre for Atlantic Studies and Applied Economics (CEEAplA), and the ID Centre for Intelligent Systems, Science and Engineering (IS2E). Artur Lima also visited the CBA – Azores Biotechnology Centre, located in Ponta Delgada. For the Vice-President of the Regional Government, "these research units are one of the pillars of innovation and development in the Azores, progressing science and the development of regional R&D projects, but also national and international ones." The government official pointed out that 237 PhD researchers were integrated into all R&D units at the University of the Azores between 2021 and 2025. These figures “demonstrate their attractiveness and relevance to our long-term development.” For the same period, Artur Lima stressed that "the Regional Government's support for R&D units reached around €4.57 million." "This is a solid and ongoing commitment to research and development, our scientific progress and the future of the Region," he said. He added: "It is also a commitment to the stability of those conducting their scientific research in the Azores." In light of the financial difficulties faced by the Azorean academic community, Artur Lima emphasised the need to "establish partnerships involving the Regional Government, companies, the University of the Azores and, naturally, the Regional Government of the Republic, which should be the main source of funding." The Vice-President of the Regional Government emphasised that "the University of the Azores is an extraordinary project of Autonomy, as well as the largest common project of the Azorean people."
January 22, 2026 Vice-President highlights “solid and ongoing” commitment to research centres at University of the Azores The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, visited the Research and Development (R&D) units at the University of the Azores in Ponta Delgada on Wednesday, highlighting the Azorean Government's "solid and ongoing commitment" to these centres. Artur Lima visited six R&D units at the University of the Azores located on the Ponta Delgada Campus, during a visit aimed at strengthening ties with these centres as well as identifying existing challenges and opportunities. The programme included visits to the Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment (IVAR), CIBIO/Azores-Research Centre in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, Centre for the Humanities of the Azores (CHAM-Azores), the Interdisciplinary Centre for Social Sciences (CICS.NOVA.UAc), the Centre for Atlantic Studies and Applied Economics (CEEAplA), and the ID Centre for Intelligent Systems, Science and Engineering (IS2E). Artur Lima also visited the CBA – Azores Biotechnology Centre, located in Ponta Delgada. For the Vice-President of the Regional Government, "these research units are one of the pillars of innovation and development in the Azores, progressing science and the development of regional R&D projects, but also national and international ones." The government official pointed out that 237 PhD researchers were integrated into all R&D units at the University of the Azores between 2021 and 2025. These figures “demonstrate their attractiveness and relevance to our long-term development.” For the same period, Artur Lima stressed that "the Regional Government's support for R&D units reached around €4.57 million." "This is a solid and ongoing commitment to research and development, our scientific progress and the future of the Region," he said. He added: "It is also a commitment to the stability of those conducting their scientific research in the Azores." In light of the financial difficulties faced by the Azorean academic community, Artur Lima emphasised the need to "establish partnerships involving the Regional Government, companies, the University of the Azores and, naturally, the Regional Government of the Republic, which should be the main source of funding." The Vice-President of the Regional Government emphasised that "the University of the Azores is an extraordinary project of Autonomy, as well as the largest common project of the Azorean people."
Nota de Imprensa
January 21, 2026 Press release In response to recent statements by the Regional Association of Tourism Companies of the Azores (AREAT) claiming that about half of all tourism activity on certain islands in the archipelago is illegal, the Government of the Azores would like to clarify the following: 1. The results of the work carried out by the inspection entities contradict the allegations that 50% of the sector operates outside the law, demonstrating, on the contrary, that the market is monitored regularly. In fact, annual inspections are conducted to detect illegal activities and ensure that licensed operators comply with their legal obligations. 2. While in 2019 there were around 270 licensed tourist entertainment companies, the Region currently has around 410 companies in the sector. Among these, 38 companies are in the process of renewing their compulsory insurance policies. 3. As part of the 2025 Activity Plan, the Regional Tourism Inspectorate carried out 71 inspections of licensed tourist entertainment companies. Full compliance with current tourism legislation was found in 48% of cases. In the remaining 37 inspections, the irregularities detected were primarily of an administrative nature. 4. Regarding the efforts to tackle illegal activity, 77 inspections were conducted to detect unregistered tourism companies or professionals. None of these inspections has identified companies or professionals operating illegally. 5. As for maritime tourism, the Regional Inspectorate of Fisheries received seven complaints, which were assessed and subject to further investigation in cooperation with other supervisory bodies. It was found that 30% of the complaints were unfounded, and in the remaining cases, it was not possible to verify the facts reported, particularly with regard to Big Game Fishing. 6. In 2025, direct inspection activity focused on maritime tourism activities intensified, with 21 inspections conducted, without any administrative offences being detected. 7. The number of maritime tourism companies in 2019 stood at 174. This figure rose to 239 in 2025, indicating that an increasing number of companies are registering and operating in compliance with the applicable legislation. 8. It should be noted that, as part of the revision of the RAMTA (Regulation of Maritime Tourism Activities in the Azores), big game fishing activities will be clarified to prevent the improper practice of this activity. 9. Regarding the 132 tourist information professionals registered in the Region, a Special Inspection Action Plan was implemented in 2025. Among the 45 actions carried out in places of high tourist interest and protected areas, 44 have not resulted in any infringement. Only in one case was a vehicle belonging to a registered entertainer identified at the edge of a nature reserve, and the operator was informed of the legal restrictions in force at the site. 10. All complaints received by the inspection services are rigorously assessed and dealt with. However, it should be noted that some of the complaints submitted reflect a lack of knowledge of the legal rules governing certain occupations or activities, resulting in cases being closed due to a lack of evidence or inability to prove illegal activities. 11. Concerning certain points of tourist interest, namely access to Fajã da Ferraria and the closure of the Salto do Cabrito trail (PRC29SMI), it should be clarified that these restrictions arise from technical assessments based on public safety reasons, associated with slope instability and complex geological and natural hazards, given the morphological and environmental specificities of the sites in question. The protection of the physical integrity of visitors, tour operators and the general population is a priority. The legitimate use of natural resources for tourism purposes cannot override the existence of real risks duly identified by competent technical entities. 12. In the specific case of PRC29 SMI – Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande – Salto do Cabrito, the route is currently being redefined to ensure adequate safety conditions for users. The goal is to maintain tourism in a responsible and sustainable manner that is compatible with the existing natural and landscape values. The Regional Government of the Azores reiterates its commitment to the quality of the Azores as a tourist destination, maintaining continuous monitoring efforts to ensure fair competition and the safety of all visitors, with a view to the continuous improvement of the sector.
January 21, 2026 Press release In response to recent statements by the Regional Association of Tourism Companies of the Azores (AREAT) claiming that about half of all tourism activity on certain islands in the archipelago is illegal, the Government of the Azores would like to clarify the following: 1. The results of the work carried out by the inspection entities contradict the allegations that 50% of the sector operates outside the law, demonstrating, on the contrary, that the market is monitored regularly. In fact, annual inspections are conducted to detect illegal activities and ensure that licensed operators comply with their legal obligations. 2. While in 2019 there were around 270 licensed tourist entertainment companies, the Region currently has around 410 companies in the sector. Among these, 38 companies are in the process of renewing their compulsory insurance policies. 3. As part of the 2025 Activity Plan, the Regional Tourism Inspectorate carried out 71 inspections of licensed tourist entertainment companies. Full compliance with current tourism legislation was found in 48% of cases. In the remaining 37 inspections, the irregularities detected were primarily of an administrative nature. 4. Regarding the efforts to tackle illegal activity, 77 inspections were conducted to detect unregistered tourism companies or professionals. None of these inspections has identified companies or professionals operating illegally. 5. As for maritime tourism, the Regional Inspectorate of Fisheries received seven complaints, which were assessed and subject to further investigation in cooperation with other supervisory bodies. It was found that 30% of the complaints were unfounded, and in the remaining cases, it was not possible to verify the facts reported, particularly with regard to Big Game Fishing. 6. In 2025, direct inspection activity focused on maritime tourism activities intensified, with 21 inspections conducted, without any administrative offences being detected. 7. The number of maritime tourism companies in 2019 stood at 174. This figure rose to 239 in 2025, indicating that an increasing number of companies are registering and operating in compliance with the applicable legislation. 8. It should be noted that, as part of the revision of the RAMTA (Regulation of Maritime Tourism Activities in the Azores), big game fishing activities will be clarified to prevent the improper practice of this activity. 9. Regarding the 132 tourist information professionals registered in the Region, a Special Inspection Action Plan was implemented in 2025. Among the 45 actions carried out in places of high tourist interest and protected areas, 44 have not resulted in any infringement. Only in one case was a vehicle belonging to a registered entertainer identified at the edge of a nature reserve, and the operator was informed of the legal restrictions in force at the site. 10. All complaints received by the inspection services are rigorously assessed and dealt with. However, it should be noted that some of the complaints submitted reflect a lack of knowledge of the legal rules governing certain occupations or activities, resulting in cases being closed due to a lack of evidence or inability to prove illegal activities. 11. Concerning certain points of tourist interest, namely access to Fajã da Ferraria and the closure of the Salto do Cabrito trail (PRC29SMI), it should be clarified that these restrictions arise from technical assessments based on public safety reasons, associated with slope instability and complex geological and natural hazards, given the morphological and environmental specificities of the sites in question. The protection of the physical integrity of visitors, tour operators and the general population is a priority. The legitimate use of natural resources for tourism purposes cannot override the existence of real risks duly identified by competent technical entities. 12. In the specific case of PRC29 SMI – Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande – Salto do Cabrito, the route is currently being redefined to ensure adequate safety conditions for users. The goal is to maintain tourism in a responsible and sustainable manner that is compatible with the existing natural and landscape values. The Regional Government of the Azores reiterates its commitment to the quality of the Azores as a tourist destination, maintaining continuous monitoring efforts to ensure fair competition and the safety of all visitors, with a view to the continuous improvement of the sector.
Nota de Imprensa
January 21, 2026 Regional Government reinforces Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade with new resources and regional investment in Civil Protection The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, delivered today new equipment to the Vila Franca do Campo Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, reinforcing the response capacity of this corporation and the regional strategy for enhancing Civil Protection. "It is with a great sense of public responsibility, respect for your mission and recognition of your dedication that we today mark the reinforcement of resources and operational capabilities for this organisation," he said, addressing those present. Three new essential pieces of equipment were presented: a heavy fire truck tanker worth €300,000, a self-command vehicle worth €43,000 and an emergency ambulance worth €73,000, which will be delivered in the first half of the year. "This year, we are providing this corporation with three essential pieces of equipment, which will significantly strengthen your operational capacity," emphasised José Manuel Bolieiro. These investments are part of the Regional Government's overall effort, which already exceeds €5.8 million allocated to the renewal of vehicles and ambulances throughout the archipelago. According to the President of the Government, this is "a solid strategy for modernising and strengthening Civil Protection on all islands." Alongside these measures, the Government has reinforced the technical equipment of the fire brigades, notably with the acquisition of 70 defibrillator monitors, representing an investment of €800,000, and the delivery of Self-contained Breathing Apparatus worth €300,000, ensuring better safety conditions for firefighters. "These investments are structural: they improve response capacity and protect the lives of those who protect lives," he said. Professional recognition has also been a priority: the basic salary for firefighters in the Azores now stands at €1,014, about 10% higher than in Mainland Portugal. The new funding model for humanitarian associations will amount to €750,000 in 2026, 50% more than in 2025. "The recognition of firefighters is not just empty words, it is a tangible, visible and sustained reality," José Manuel Bolieiro said, adding that this salary increase "is a commitment to the respectability of this profession and the fairness towards those who take risks for the common good." The social benefits package exceeds half a million Euros, including support for after-school activities for firefighters' children starting this month. Last December, support amounting to €180,000 was paid to the operational staff, "a significant incentive for volunteering," he added. In 2025, the Vila Franca do Campo fire brigade responded to 1,103 incidents, including 91% in the area of health, also playing an important role in the non-urgent transport of patients. "This performance confirms the professionalism, dedication and absolutely central importance of this corporation to the municipality," stated the President of the Government. Regarding the future, plans for a new fire station are currently under consideration. The preliminary version has been revised to ensure that operational requirements are met, and the next phase will involve cost estimates and assessment by the Government. "This is a serious, progressive and evidence-based process, which will continue to be conducted in this manner," he assured. During the ceremony, a photovoltaic panel solution was also presented, aimed at increasing the corporation's energy efficiency. "It is a clear example of our commitment to sustainability and reduction of operating costs," stated José Manuel Bolieiro. The Medal of Distinguished Service and the Friend of the Firefighters Diploma were also awarded to José Manuel Santos and Glória Santos, former concessionaires of the firefighters' restaurant. The President of the Government joined in the recognition, highlighting that the "dedication" and "spirit of collaboration of both represent the best of the Vila Franca do Campo community." The ceremony was also attended by the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, the Mayor of Vila Franca do Campo, Graça Melo, the President of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, Rui Andrade, the President of the Vila Franca do Campo Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, Rui Melo, and the Commander of the Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade, Tiago Santos.
January 21, 2026 Regional Government reinforces Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade with new resources and regional investment in Civil Protection The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, delivered today new equipment to the Vila Franca do Campo Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, reinforcing the response capacity of this corporation and the regional strategy for enhancing Civil Protection. "It is with a great sense of public responsibility, respect for your mission and recognition of your dedication that we today mark the reinforcement of resources and operational capabilities for this organisation," he said, addressing those present. Three new essential pieces of equipment were presented: a heavy fire truck tanker worth €300,000, a self-command vehicle worth €43,000 and an emergency ambulance worth €73,000, which will be delivered in the first half of the year. "This year, we are providing this corporation with three essential pieces of equipment, which will significantly strengthen your operational capacity," emphasised José Manuel Bolieiro. These investments are part of the Regional Government's overall effort, which already exceeds €5.8 million allocated to the renewal of vehicles and ambulances throughout the archipelago. According to the President of the Government, this is "a solid strategy for modernising and strengthening Civil Protection on all islands." Alongside these measures, the Government has reinforced the technical equipment of the fire brigades, notably with the acquisition of 70 defibrillator monitors, representing an investment of €800,000, and the delivery of Self-contained Breathing Apparatus worth €300,000, ensuring better safety conditions for firefighters. "These investments are structural: they improve response capacity and protect the lives of those who protect lives," he said. Professional recognition has also been a priority: the basic salary for firefighters in the Azores now stands at €1,014, about 10% higher than in Mainland Portugal. The new funding model for humanitarian associations will amount to €750,000 in 2026, 50% more than in 2025. "The recognition of firefighters is not just empty words, it is a tangible, visible and sustained reality," José Manuel Bolieiro said, adding that this salary increase "is a commitment to the respectability of this profession and the fairness towards those who take risks for the common good." The social benefits package exceeds half a million Euros, including support for after-school activities for firefighters' children starting this month. Last December, support amounting to €180,000 was paid to the operational staff, "a significant incentive for volunteering," he added. In 2025, the Vila Franca do Campo fire brigade responded to 1,103 incidents, including 91% in the area of health, also playing an important role in the non-urgent transport of patients. "This performance confirms the professionalism, dedication and absolutely central importance of this corporation to the municipality," stated the President of the Government. Regarding the future, plans for a new fire station are currently under consideration. The preliminary version has been revised to ensure that operational requirements are met, and the next phase will involve cost estimates and assessment by the Government. "This is a serious, progressive and evidence-based process, which will continue to be conducted in this manner," he assured. During the ceremony, a photovoltaic panel solution was also presented, aimed at increasing the corporation's energy efficiency. "It is a clear example of our commitment to sustainability and reduction of operating costs," stated José Manuel Bolieiro. The Medal of Distinguished Service and the Friend of the Firefighters Diploma were also awarded to José Manuel Santos and Glória Santos, former concessionaires of the firefighters' restaurant. The President of the Government joined in the recognition, highlighting that the "dedication" and "spirit of collaboration of both represent the best of the Vila Franca do Campo community." The ceremony was also attended by the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, the Mayor of Vila Franca do Campo, Graça Melo, the President of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, Rui Andrade, the President of the Vila Franca do Campo Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, Rui Melo, and the Commander of the Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade, Tiago Santos.
Nota de Imprensa
January 21, 2026 Azores Commissioners' Office for Children promoted training to improve "quality of intervention" of CPCJ in the Region The Regional Secretariat for Health and Social Security, through the Azores Commissioner's for Childhood (CAI), promoted this week the initial training initiative "Principles and management of the intervention of child and youth protection commissions," which took place in Ponta Delgada. Nearly two dozen professionals from the Commissions for the Protection of Children and Youth (CPCJ) attended this training session, which took place at the auditorium of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, bringing together participants from São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Flores. In addition to covering technical content, the 17-hour training was an opportunity for the sharing of experiences and different realities from various territories, highlighting the need for faster responses to requests made to frontline entities. This initiative stems from the ongoing commitment to provide professionals within the Promotion and Protection System with higher technical qualifications, as well as in-depth knowledge of the Law on the Protection of Children and Young People in Danger, with direct implications for the daily practice of their duties. Today, at the end of the training, the President of CAI, Emanuel Areias, emphasised that "the better the training, the higher the quality of CPCJ's intervention will be." In this regard, he pointed out that a high-quality intervention is "the best guarantee that no rights will be left unprotected and no situations will be left unaddressed." With this training course, the CAI, in addition to complying with its 2026 Activity Plan, is starting a training cycle in different areas aimed at members and technical support staff of the CPCJ, in both restricted and extended formats. It should be noted that participants made a very positive assessment of the training, both in terms of the content addressed and the potential impact on their professional performance, the functioning of the CPCJ and the improvement of protective intervention.
January 21, 2026 Azores Commissioners' Office for Children promoted training to improve "quality of intervention" of CPCJ in the Region The Regional Secretariat for Health and Social Security, through the Azores Commissioner's for Childhood (CAI), promoted this week the initial training initiative "Principles and management of the intervention of child and youth protection commissions," which took place in Ponta Delgada. Nearly two dozen professionals from the Commissions for the Protection of Children and Youth (CPCJ) attended this training session, which took place at the auditorium of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, bringing together participants from São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Flores. In addition to covering technical content, the 17-hour training was an opportunity for the sharing of experiences and different realities from various territories, highlighting the need for faster responses to requests made to frontline entities. This initiative stems from the ongoing commitment to provide professionals within the Promotion and Protection System with higher technical qualifications, as well as in-depth knowledge of the Law on the Protection of Children and Young People in Danger, with direct implications for the daily practice of their duties. Today, at the end of the training, the President of CAI, Emanuel Areias, emphasised that "the better the training, the higher the quality of CPCJ's intervention will be." In this regard, he pointed out that a high-quality intervention is "the best guarantee that no rights will be left unprotected and no situations will be left unaddressed." With this training course, the CAI, in addition to complying with its 2026 Activity Plan, is starting a training cycle in different areas aimed at members and technical support staff of the CPCJ, in both restricted and extended formats. It should be noted that participants made a very positive assessment of the training, both in terms of the content addressed and the potential impact on their professional performance, the functioning of the CPCJ and the improvement of protective intervention.
