Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro announces pilot project for four-day work week in Regional Public Administration
José Manuel Bolieiro announces pilot project for four-day work week in Regional Public Administration
Presidência do Governo Regional
Speech by the President of the Government
Speech by the President of the Government
Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro welcomes 2026 State Budget proposal and advocates fair review of Finance Act
José Manuel Bolieiro welcomes 2026 State Budget proposal and advocates fair review of Finance Act
Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
Regional Labour Inspection promotes seminar on safe and healthy work in the digital age
Regional Labour Inspection promotes seminar on safe and healthy work in the digital age
Latest News
Nota de Imprensa
October 10, 2025
José Manuel Bolieiro announces pilot project for four-day work week in Regional Public Administration
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the opening session of the 6th Labour Law Days – Azores at the Teatro Micaelense. This forum has promoted reflection and debate on issues central to the dignity of work in the Region since 2015. The ceremony was attended by the President of the Constitutional Court, Professor José João Abrantes, and the Judge of the Supreme Administrative Court, Ana Celeste Carvalho, whose presence was highlighted by the President of the Government as "a contribution that greatly honours this event and enriches the debate on the future of labour law in Portugal and the Azores." The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the timeliness and relevance of the theme chosen for this edition, "New models of working time organisation: The four-day work week - Implications." According to him, "we are living in a time of profound demographic, technological and organisational change, which challenges old understandings of productivity, talent attraction and service quality in both the public and private sectors." The President of the Government defended that the reorganisation of working hours "must be conducted with balance, responsibility and respect for workers' rights." In this regard, he noted that "flexibility must be supported by contractual clarification, risk assessment and mechanisms to prevent abuse, ensuring equal treatment and predictability in the management of working time." In his speech, José Manuel Bolieiro announced that the Regional Government will move forward with a four-day work week pilot project in the Regional Public Administration, scheduled to begin on January 1, 2026, and have a duration of six months. The aim, as he explained, is ‘to improve the balance between professional, personal and family life, boost productivity and well-being, and contribute to the competitiveness of our services, always in strict compliance with applicable legislation.’ The sample of services and workers who will participate in the pilot project will be selected in November, after consultation with the unions and senior officials of the Regional Public Administration. José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised that the project is based on an agreement between workers and employers, based on evidence and followed up by an independent assessment. As for the private sector, he stated that the approach will be "cautious, but encouraging voluntary, measured and reversible pilot projects," aligned with the Labour Code and collective bargaining. He stressed that public support will be technical, focused on process diagnosis, management training and independent assessment, "without resorting to direct wage subsidies." As for the private sector, he stated that the approach will be "cautious, but encouraging voluntary, measured and reversible pilot projects," aligned with the Labour Code and collective bargaining. He stressed that public support will be technical, focused on process diagnosis, management training and independent assessment, "without resorting to direct wage subsidies." The Regional Government's actions will be guided by five fundamental principles: priority given to citizen service; gradual, evidence-based experimentation before rolling out any solution; social dialogue; sectoral and territorial adequacy of solutions; and transparency, through public indicators and external assessment. The head of the Azorean Government ended his speech with a message of confidence and commitment, stating that he believes that "the future of work in the Azores will be built on dialogue, innovation, and the courage to seek new solutions." He added that the"Government is committed to a fairer, more productive and more humane region, where economic progress is achieved with dignity for workers and their families." The 6th Labour Law Days – Azores are taking place on the island of São Miguel. The event brings together academics, magistrates, lawyers, managers and public officials in a space for debate and sharing on the challenges and opportunities that new models of labour organisation pose to contemporary society. Related press release: Speech by the President of the Government
October 10, 2025
José Manuel Bolieiro announces pilot project for four-day work week in Regional Public Administration
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the opening session of the 6th Labour Law Days – Azores at the Teatro Micaelense. This forum has promoted reflection and debate on issues central to the dignity of work in the Region since 2015. The ceremony was attended by the President of the Constitutional Court, Professor José João Abrantes, and the Judge of the Supreme Administrative Court, Ana Celeste Carvalho, whose presence was highlighted by the President of the Government as "a contribution that greatly honours this event and enriches the debate on the future of labour law in Portugal and the Azores." The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the timeliness and relevance of the theme chosen for this edition, "New models of working time organisation: The four-day work week - Implications." According to him, "we are living in a time of profound demographic, technological and organisational change, which challenges old understandings of productivity, talent attraction and service quality in both the public and private sectors." The President of the Government defended that the reorganisation of working hours "must be conducted with balance, responsibility and respect for workers' rights." In this regard, he noted that "flexibility must be supported by contractual clarification, risk assessment and mechanisms to prevent abuse, ensuring equal treatment and predictability in the management of working time." In his speech, José Manuel Bolieiro announced that the Regional Government will move forward with a four-day work week pilot project in the Regional Public Administration, scheduled to begin on January 1, 2026, and have a duration of six months. The aim, as he explained, is ‘to improve the balance between professional, personal and family life, boost productivity and well-being, and contribute to the competitiveness of our services, always in strict compliance with applicable legislation.’ The sample of services and workers who will participate in the pilot project will be selected in November, after consultation with the unions and senior officials of the Regional Public Administration. José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised that the project is based on an agreement between workers and employers, based on evidence and followed up by an independent assessment. As for the private sector, he stated that the approach will be "cautious, but encouraging voluntary, measured and reversible pilot projects," aligned with the Labour Code and collective bargaining. He stressed that public support will be technical, focused on process diagnosis, management training and independent assessment, "without resorting to direct wage subsidies." As for the private sector, he stated that the approach will be "cautious, but encouraging voluntary, measured and reversible pilot projects," aligned with the Labour Code and collective bargaining. He stressed that public support will be technical, focused on process diagnosis, management training and independent assessment, "without resorting to direct wage subsidies." The Regional Government's actions will be guided by five fundamental principles: priority given to citizen service; gradual, evidence-based experimentation before rolling out any solution; social dialogue; sectoral and territorial adequacy of solutions; and transparency, through public indicators and external assessment. The head of the Azorean Government ended his speech with a message of confidence and commitment, stating that he believes that "the future of work in the Azores will be built on dialogue, innovation, and the courage to seek new solutions." He added that the"Government is committed to a fairer, more productive and more humane region, where economic progress is achieved with dignity for workers and their families." The 6th Labour Law Days – Azores are taking place on the island of São Miguel. The event brings together academics, magistrates, lawyers, managers and public officials in a space for debate and sharing on the challenges and opportunities that new models of labour organisation pose to contemporary society. Related press release: Speech by the President of the Government
Intervenção
October 10, 2025
Speech by the President of the Government
Full text of the speech delivered today by the President of the Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, in Ponta Delgada, at the opening session of the 6th Labour Law Days: It is with great honour that I preside over the opening of the 6th Labour Law Conference – Azores. This forum has promoted reflection and debate on issues central to the dignity of work in the Region since 2015. I wish everyone a fruitful stay in the Azores, filled with reflection and appreciation for our peacefulness and the beauty of our nature. Allow me to extend a special greeting and thanks to His Excellency, the President of the Constitutional Court, Professor José João Abrantes, and to the Judge of the Supreme Administrative Court, Judge Ana Celeste Carvalho. Your participation greatly honours this event and enriches the debate, bringing the vision and experience of the highest authorities of Portuguese justice to the reflection on the future of labour law in general and in the Azores, in particular. Furthermore, I am pleased to add, for the record, that I personally hold you in high regard. To the distinguished speakers, moderators and members of the Scientific Committee, I would also like to extend a special greeting and express my gratitude for your willingness to accept our invitation to share your enriching experiences and valuable knowledge with us. The theme chosen for this edition, "New models of working time organisation: The four-day work week - Implications," is undoubtedly a very timely and relevant topic. It is innovative in terms of both social and labour matters. We are living in a time of profound demographic, technological and organisational change, which challenges old understandings of productivity, talent attraction and service quality in both the public and private sectors. The debate on the reorganisation of working hours is acquiring a new intensity. Digital transformation, globalisation, labour mobility and the need to reconcile economic results with the well-being of workers place us before the responsibility of finding legally secure and operationally viable solutions. Solutions promoting inclusive growth, full employment and fair work are aligned with the United Nations' 8th Sustainable Development Goal. Current trends show us the spread of models for reducing working hours, such as the four-day work week, hybrid arrangements and management by goals. These changes require a redesign of processes, the adoption of new planning tools, and the definition of clear performance metrics, replacing the mere counting of hours with performance indicators. However, any organisational change must comply with the legal framework, safeguarding the safety, health, and rights of workers. The sustainability of organisations and companies—a change in mindset. Flexibility must be supported by contractual clarification, risk assessment and mechanisms to prevent abuse, ensuring equal treatment and predictability in the management of working time. Confidence in change, with adaptive capacity. In this context, the Regional Government's actions are guided by five fundamental principles: - Priority given to citizen service; - Gradual, evidence-based experimentation before rolling out any solution; - Social dialogue and collective bargaining as the preferred method; - Sectoral and territorial adequacy of solutions; - Transparency, through public indicators and external assessment. Within the Regional Public Administration, a commitment has been made to move forward with a four-day work week pilot project, based on an agreement between employees and employers. The aim is to improve the balance between professional, personal and family life, boost productivity and well-being, and contribute to the competitiveness of our services, always in strict compliance with applicable legislation. In implementing international best practices, the four-day work week pilot project was presented and discussed with trade unions and senior managers in the Regional Public Administration. The sample of services and workers who will participate in the pilot project will be selected in November. The pilot project will then begin on January 1, 2026, for a period of six months. In the private sector, our approach is cautious, but we encourage voluntary, measured and reversible pilot projects, aligned with the Labour Code and collective bargaining agreements. Public support will be technical, focused on process diagnosis, management training and independent assessment, without resorting to direct wage subsidies. These conferences will allow us to learn about the results of the 2023 national pilot project and plan the pilot project for labour flexibility in Regional Public Administration, with the sharing of experiences from national and international experts. Therefore, we intend to consolidate recent evidence, identify advantages and challenges, and outline technical criteria for the continuity of public service and for the independent assessment of future projects. Finally, I would like to emphasise the key role of social dialogue. Only through negotiation between social partners can we find balanced solutions that will ensure predictability, protection of rights, sustainability and competitiveness of companies, and stability in labour relations. Allow me, on this occasion, to offer a word of confidence and commitment. I firmly believe that the future of work in the Azores will be built on dialogue, innovation, and the courage to seek new solutions. We are not afraid to assert ourselves as a laboratory for the future in the fields of social and economic innovation. We are committed to a fairer, more productive and more humane region, where economic progress is achieved with dignity for workers and their families. You can count on the Regional Government to lead this path of modernisation and recognition of work with responsibility and openness. I wish everyone excellent Days and hope they will be another firm step towards building a fairer and more innovative labour market tailored to the challenges of our time."
October 10, 2025
Speech by the President of the Government
Full text of the speech delivered today by the President of the Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, in Ponta Delgada, at the opening session of the 6th Labour Law Days: It is with great honour that I preside over the opening of the 6th Labour Law Conference – Azores. This forum has promoted reflection and debate on issues central to the dignity of work in the Region since 2015. I wish everyone a fruitful stay in the Azores, filled with reflection and appreciation for our peacefulness and the beauty of our nature. Allow me to extend a special greeting and thanks to His Excellency, the President of the Constitutional Court, Professor José João Abrantes, and to the Judge of the Supreme Administrative Court, Judge Ana Celeste Carvalho. Your participation greatly honours this event and enriches the debate, bringing the vision and experience of the highest authorities of Portuguese justice to the reflection on the future of labour law in general and in the Azores, in particular. Furthermore, I am pleased to add, for the record, that I personally hold you in high regard. To the distinguished speakers, moderators and members of the Scientific Committee, I would also like to extend a special greeting and express my gratitude for your willingness to accept our invitation to share your enriching experiences and valuable knowledge with us. The theme chosen for this edition, "New models of working time organisation: The four-day work week - Implications," is undoubtedly a very timely and relevant topic. It is innovative in terms of both social and labour matters. We are living in a time of profound demographic, technological and organisational change, which challenges old understandings of productivity, talent attraction and service quality in both the public and private sectors. The debate on the reorganisation of working hours is acquiring a new intensity. Digital transformation, globalisation, labour mobility and the need to reconcile economic results with the well-being of workers place us before the responsibility of finding legally secure and operationally viable solutions. Solutions promoting inclusive growth, full employment and fair work are aligned with the United Nations' 8th Sustainable Development Goal. Current trends show us the spread of models for reducing working hours, such as the four-day work week, hybrid arrangements and management by goals. These changes require a redesign of processes, the adoption of new planning tools, and the definition of clear performance metrics, replacing the mere counting of hours with performance indicators. However, any organisational change must comply with the legal framework, safeguarding the safety, health, and rights of workers. The sustainability of organisations and companies—a change in mindset. Flexibility must be supported by contractual clarification, risk assessment and mechanisms to prevent abuse, ensuring equal treatment and predictability in the management of working time. Confidence in change, with adaptive capacity. In this context, the Regional Government's actions are guided by five fundamental principles: - Priority given to citizen service; - Gradual, evidence-based experimentation before rolling out any solution; - Social dialogue and collective bargaining as the preferred method; - Sectoral and territorial adequacy of solutions; - Transparency, through public indicators and external assessment. Within the Regional Public Administration, a commitment has been made to move forward with a four-day work week pilot project, based on an agreement between employees and employers. The aim is to improve the balance between professional, personal and family life, boost productivity and well-being, and contribute to the competitiveness of our services, always in strict compliance with applicable legislation. In implementing international best practices, the four-day work week pilot project was presented and discussed with trade unions and senior managers in the Regional Public Administration. The sample of services and workers who will participate in the pilot project will be selected in November. The pilot project will then begin on January 1, 2026, for a period of six months. In the private sector, our approach is cautious, but we encourage voluntary, measured and reversible pilot projects, aligned with the Labour Code and collective bargaining agreements. Public support will be technical, focused on process diagnosis, management training and independent assessment, without resorting to direct wage subsidies. These conferences will allow us to learn about the results of the 2023 national pilot project and plan the pilot project for labour flexibility in Regional Public Administration, with the sharing of experiences from national and international experts. Therefore, we intend to consolidate recent evidence, identify advantages and challenges, and outline technical criteria for the continuity of public service and for the independent assessment of future projects. Finally, I would like to emphasise the key role of social dialogue. Only through negotiation between social partners can we find balanced solutions that will ensure predictability, protection of rights, sustainability and competitiveness of companies, and stability in labour relations. Allow me, on this occasion, to offer a word of confidence and commitment. I firmly believe that the future of work in the Azores will be built on dialogue, innovation, and the courage to seek new solutions. We are not afraid to assert ourselves as a laboratory for the future in the fields of social and economic innovation. We are committed to a fairer, more productive and more humane region, where economic progress is achieved with dignity for workers and their families. You can count on the Regional Government to lead this path of modernisation and recognition of work with responsibility and openness. I wish everyone excellent Days and hope they will be another firm step towards building a fairer and more innovative labour market tailored to the challenges of our time."
Nota de Imprensa
October 10, 2025
José Manuel Bolieiro welcomes 2026 State Budget proposal and advocates fair review of Finance Act
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, expressed his satisfaction with the proposed State Budget for 2026, emphasising that the document, as presented, ensures the main provisions of the regional budget proposal, currently under consultation with social partners and island councils. According to the proposal submitted to the National Assembly, transfers to the Azores under the Autonomous Regions Finance Act amount to €341.1 million, representing an increase of €21.9 million compared to 2025. This boost will ensure the continuity of structural public policies and consolidate the Region's financial balance. "The State Budget for 2026 gives confidence to regional planning and ensures stability to continue the commitments made to Azorean families and businesses," the President stated, highlighting the budget framework as a sign of confidence in regional finances. Without prejudice to this positive assessment, the President of the Government reiterated the need for a fair and updated revision of the Finance Act of the Autonomous Regions, stressing that this is a matter of equity and national responsibility. "We need a fair review of the Finance Law, which ensures predictability and respect for the Azores' contribution to the development of the country," stressed José Manuel Bolieiro. He added that the Region "is not committed to transitional or exceptional solutions, but rather to a stable and balanced financing model." The President of the Government also announced that, at the end of this month, he will attend a meeting of the Council of Ministers in Lisbon. The President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque, will also be present at the meeting.
October 10, 2025
José Manuel Bolieiro welcomes 2026 State Budget proposal and advocates fair review of Finance Act
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, expressed his satisfaction with the proposed State Budget for 2026, emphasising that the document, as presented, ensures the main provisions of the regional budget proposal, currently under consultation with social partners and island councils. According to the proposal submitted to the National Assembly, transfers to the Azores under the Autonomous Regions Finance Act amount to €341.1 million, representing an increase of €21.9 million compared to 2025. This boost will ensure the continuity of structural public policies and consolidate the Region's financial balance. "The State Budget for 2026 gives confidence to regional planning and ensures stability to continue the commitments made to Azorean families and businesses," the President stated, highlighting the budget framework as a sign of confidence in regional finances. Without prejudice to this positive assessment, the President of the Government reiterated the need for a fair and updated revision of the Finance Act of the Autonomous Regions, stressing that this is a matter of equity and national responsibility. "We need a fair review of the Finance Law, which ensures predictability and respect for the Azores' contribution to the development of the country," stressed José Manuel Bolieiro. He added that the Region "is not committed to transitional or exceptional solutions, but rather to a stable and balanced financing model." The President of the Government also announced that, at the end of this month, he will attend a meeting of the Council of Ministers in Lisbon. The President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque, will also be present at the meeting.
Nota de Imprensa
October 9, 2025
Regional Labour Inspection promotes seminar on safe and healthy work in the digital age
The Regional Labour Inspectorate (IRT) will promote a seminar on October 29 to take place at the Angra do Heroísmo Cultural and Conference Centre on Terceira Island as part of European Week for Safety and Health at Work, announced the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment. This year, "Safe and healthy work in the digital age" will be the theme of the European initiative that highlights safer and healthier workplaces across Europe. In this regard, the seminar organised by IRT will propose a reflection on how technology is reshaping risks and well-being at work. As such, it is aimed at professionals from various sectors of activity, as well as all those who have or will have responsibility in the area of occupational health and safety. Those interested in participating in this initiative should register, free of charge, by October 27, using the electronic form available at https://forms.office.com/e/HdZDwkpFyF. The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, will chair the opening session of the seminar at 9 a.m. Speakers include Emília Telo, Coordinator of the National Focal Point of the Agency for Safety and Health at Work; Inês Sena, Researcher at the Centre for Research in Digitalisation and Intelligent Robotics at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança; and Ana Isabel Gomes, Psychiatrist at the Institute of Integrative Medicine in Coimbra. Speakers at the seminar will also include Paula Sousa, Director of Occupational Health and Safety Promotion Services at the Authority for Working Conditions (ACT), and Marta Reis, Trainer/CEO of SimplifyPro. The presentation at the seminar will feature topics such as "Digital and Ecological Transition: How Artificial Intelligence is Redefining Occupational Health and Safety," "Smart Systems for Accident Risk Prediction," "Best Practices and Strategies for Mental Health in the Workplace," "Organisation of Occupational Safety Services: Employer or Designated Worker" and "From Digital Hygiene to Safe Literacy: How Training Protects People and Organisations." The full programme for the seminar, which runs from 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., can be found on the IRT website at https://irt.azores.gov.pt/.
October 9, 2025
Regional Labour Inspection promotes seminar on safe and healthy work in the digital age
The Regional Labour Inspectorate (IRT) will promote a seminar on October 29 to take place at the Angra do Heroísmo Cultural and Conference Centre on Terceira Island as part of European Week for Safety and Health at Work, announced the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment. This year, "Safe and healthy work in the digital age" will be the theme of the European initiative that highlights safer and healthier workplaces across Europe. In this regard, the seminar organised by IRT will propose a reflection on how technology is reshaping risks and well-being at work. As such, it is aimed at professionals from various sectors of activity, as well as all those who have or will have responsibility in the area of occupational health and safety. Those interested in participating in this initiative should register, free of charge, by October 27, using the electronic form available at https://forms.office.com/e/HdZDwkpFyF. The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, will chair the opening session of the seminar at 9 a.m. Speakers include Emília Telo, Coordinator of the National Focal Point of the Agency for Safety and Health at Work; Inês Sena, Researcher at the Centre for Research in Digitalisation and Intelligent Robotics at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança; and Ana Isabel Gomes, Psychiatrist at the Institute of Integrative Medicine in Coimbra. Speakers at the seminar will also include Paula Sousa, Director of Occupational Health and Safety Promotion Services at the Authority for Working Conditions (ACT), and Marta Reis, Trainer/CEO of SimplifyPro. The presentation at the seminar will feature topics such as "Digital and Ecological Transition: How Artificial Intelligence is Redefining Occupational Health and Safety," "Smart Systems for Accident Risk Prediction," "Best Practices and Strategies for Mental Health in the Workplace," "Organisation of Occupational Safety Services: Employer or Designated Worker" and "From Digital Hygiene to Safe Literacy: How Training Protects People and Organisations." The full programme for the seminar, which runs from 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., can be found on the IRT website at https://irt.azores.gov.pt/.
Nota de Imprensa
October 8, 2025
Regional Government opens public tender to service 36 plots for transfer in Capelas, São Miguel
The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, launched on Tuesday the public tender for the servicing of plots located in the Nossa Senhora do Rosário housing development in the parish of Capelas, municipality of Ponta Delgada, on the island of São Miguel. The works contract, now put out to tender, has a base price of €2.7 million plus VAT at the legal rate in force and a completion period of 240 days. It is financed under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) for the Region and includes the servicing of 36 plots to be transferred to families and the subsequent construction of 36 houses. The period for submitting proposals for this works contract runs until November 5 under the terms set out in the announcement published in the Official Journal. According to the implementation plan, the work to be carried out under this project focuses on demolition and surveying, earthworks, water supply network, sewage and drainage network, various infrastructures, landscaping, walls, electrical network and telecommunications infrastructures. More than 360 new housing solutions are currently being implemented in the Azores, representing an investment of over €43.6 million financed under the RRP for the Azores. This investment will expand the supply of public housing for different situations and age groups, including young people, middle-class and single-parent families, without overlooking the most disadvantaged households facing serious housing shortages.
October 8, 2025
Regional Government opens public tender to service 36 plots for transfer in Capelas, São Miguel
The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, launched on Tuesday the public tender for the servicing of plots located in the Nossa Senhora do Rosário housing development in the parish of Capelas, municipality of Ponta Delgada, on the island of São Miguel. The works contract, now put out to tender, has a base price of €2.7 million plus VAT at the legal rate in force and a completion period of 240 days. It is financed under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) for the Region and includes the servicing of 36 plots to be transferred to families and the subsequent construction of 36 houses. The period for submitting proposals for this works contract runs until November 5 under the terms set out in the announcement published in the Official Journal. According to the implementation plan, the work to be carried out under this project focuses on demolition and surveying, earthworks, water supply network, sewage and drainage network, various infrastructures, landscaping, walls, electrical network and telecommunications infrastructures. More than 360 new housing solutions are currently being implemented in the Azores, representing an investment of over €43.6 million financed under the RRP for the Azores. This investment will expand the supply of public housing for different situations and age groups, including young people, middle-class and single-parent families, without overlooking the most disadvantaged households facing serious housing shortages.
Nota de Imprensa
October 8, 2025
Message of Condolences
It is with deep sadness that the Government of the Azores, on behalf of the President of the Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, mourns the passing of Tomás Daniel Bernardo Vultão, President of the Parish Council of Santa Bárbara in the municipality of Ponta Delgada. Tomás Vultão was a dedicated and exemplary local politician who always guided his life by serving the community, being close to the people and committed to the development of his parish. His actions, marked by integrity, dialogue, and a sense of responsibility, will live on in local life and in the hearts of those he served with humility and dedication. His contributions have gone beyond his parish. He was recognised throughout the municipality and Region for his dedication to defending his community's interests and for the composure with which he faced the challenges of public life. At this time of sorrow, the Government of the Azores extends its deepest condolences to his wife, son, family, friends, and the entire parish of Santa Bárbara, which has lost a dedicated citizen and mayor who was deeply committed to his community.
October 8, 2025
Message of Condolences
It is with deep sadness that the Government of the Azores, on behalf of the President of the Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, mourns the passing of Tomás Daniel Bernardo Vultão, President of the Parish Council of Santa Bárbara in the municipality of Ponta Delgada. Tomás Vultão was a dedicated and exemplary local politician who always guided his life by serving the community, being close to the people and committed to the development of his parish. His actions, marked by integrity, dialogue, and a sense of responsibility, will live on in local life and in the hearts of those he served with humility and dedication. His contributions have gone beyond his parish. He was recognised throughout the municipality and Region for his dedication to defending his community's interests and for the composure with which he faced the challenges of public life. At this time of sorrow, the Government of the Azores extends its deepest condolences to his wife, son, family, friends, and the entire parish of Santa Bárbara, which has lost a dedicated citizen and mayor who was deeply committed to his community.
Nota de Imprensa
October 7, 2025
Over 870 students enrol in Azorean vocational schools
873 new students are beginning the 2025/2026 school year at Azorean Vocational Schools, enrolled in 51 new Level IV vocational courses, according to an announcement made today by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment. According to Maria João Carreiro, there are 139 more new graduates compared to the overall number of young people [734] who enrolled in a vocational school in the 2020/2021 school year. Additionally, there are 13 more new courses than the total number of courses approved [38] in that same school year, which coincides with the beginning of the PSD/CDS-PP/PPM coalition government. The government official visited today the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ponta Delgada Vocational School (EPCCIPD) in São Miguel to mark the beginning of the school year at regional professional schools. The government official highlighted the good results, despite a decrease of more than 1,000 students in public schools this school year. "Vocational education in vocational schools now generates more confidence among young people, parents and guardians, which leads to greater mobilisation and enrolment," she noted. Among the areas of training with the highest enrolment are Hospitality and Catering, Child and Youth Support Services, Tourism and Leisure, Agricultural and Animal Production, and Health. These account for 54% of the trainees now beginning their training programme. As such, Maria João Carreiro praised the efforts made by schools to align their training provision with the interests of young people and the needs of businesses, stressing that "we now have more provision and more enrolments in areas that create jobs in the Region." For the Regional Secretary, "the growing recognition of the benefits of vocational education focused on training and the success of trainees leads us to regard the present and future of vocational education in the Azores with optimism," with 2.9 million Euros invested through the RRP to modernise equipment. In this regard, the government official reiterated the Azorean Government's commitment to "maximise the achievements of the last four years," as outlined in the Regional Agenda for Vocational Training. This will be achieved by "further clarifying to young people and businesses the advantages of this educational path," which provides academic and professional certification. "Vocational schools are associated with quality and value in the training paths they offer young people, which we want to promote," noted the government official. In this regard, she praised this year's edition of the "Your First Choice" campaign, featuring medal-winning graduates from Skills Portugal – National Skills Championships 2024, which saw the Region win 18 medals, including seven gold medals. The Regional Secretary also called for significant and committed participation by vocational schools in next year's Regional Skills Championship, which is the qualifying round for Skills Portugal. During her visit to EPCCIPD, Maria João Carreiro was accompanied by the Regional Director for Vocational Training and Employment, Renato Medeiros, and was welcomed by the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ponta Delgada, Gualter Couto, the Vice-Presidents, Paula Stone and Sandra Moniz, and the Director-General of EPCCIPD, Francisco Gil. This year, EPCCIPD launched two new Level 4 courses: Management Support Technician and Environmental and Rural Tourism Technician, which have 48 new students enrolled. These courses will complement the 2nd-year Travel Agency Technician and Digital Communication Technician courses as well as the 3rd-year Sales Technician course. The provision of training tailored to the needs of the member companies of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ponta Delgada and the internationalisation of its training offer have been the focus of EPCCIPD, which has a record number of trainees, a total of 90, making it a benchmark in the Azorean education and vocational training system.
October 7, 2025
Over 870 students enrol in Azorean vocational schools
873 new students are beginning the 2025/2026 school year at Azorean Vocational Schools, enrolled in 51 new Level IV vocational courses, according to an announcement made today by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment. According to Maria João Carreiro, there are 139 more new graduates compared to the overall number of young people [734] who enrolled in a vocational school in the 2020/2021 school year. Additionally, there are 13 more new courses than the total number of courses approved [38] in that same school year, which coincides with the beginning of the PSD/CDS-PP/PPM coalition government. The government official visited today the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ponta Delgada Vocational School (EPCCIPD) in São Miguel to mark the beginning of the school year at regional professional schools. The government official highlighted the good results, despite a decrease of more than 1,000 students in public schools this school year. "Vocational education in vocational schools now generates more confidence among young people, parents and guardians, which leads to greater mobilisation and enrolment," she noted. Among the areas of training with the highest enrolment are Hospitality and Catering, Child and Youth Support Services, Tourism and Leisure, Agricultural and Animal Production, and Health. These account for 54% of the trainees now beginning their training programme. As such, Maria João Carreiro praised the efforts made by schools to align their training provision with the interests of young people and the needs of businesses, stressing that "we now have more provision and more enrolments in areas that create jobs in the Region." For the Regional Secretary, "the growing recognition of the benefits of vocational education focused on training and the success of trainees leads us to regard the present and future of vocational education in the Azores with optimism," with 2.9 million Euros invested through the RRP to modernise equipment. In this regard, the government official reiterated the Azorean Government's commitment to "maximise the achievements of the last four years," as outlined in the Regional Agenda for Vocational Training. This will be achieved by "further clarifying to young people and businesses the advantages of this educational path," which provides academic and professional certification. "Vocational schools are associated with quality and value in the training paths they offer young people, which we want to promote," noted the government official. In this regard, she praised this year's edition of the "Your First Choice" campaign, featuring medal-winning graduates from Skills Portugal – National Skills Championships 2024, which saw the Region win 18 medals, including seven gold medals. The Regional Secretary also called for significant and committed participation by vocational schools in next year's Regional Skills Championship, which is the qualifying round for Skills Portugal. During her visit to EPCCIPD, Maria João Carreiro was accompanied by the Regional Director for Vocational Training and Employment, Renato Medeiros, and was welcomed by the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ponta Delgada, Gualter Couto, the Vice-Presidents, Paula Stone and Sandra Moniz, and the Director-General of EPCCIPD, Francisco Gil. This year, EPCCIPD launched two new Level 4 courses: Management Support Technician and Environmental and Rural Tourism Technician, which have 48 new students enrolled. These courses will complement the 2nd-year Travel Agency Technician and Digital Communication Technician courses as well as the 3rd-year Sales Technician course. The provision of training tailored to the needs of the member companies of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ponta Delgada and the internationalisation of its training offer have been the focus of EPCCIPD, which has a record number of trainees, a total of 90, making it a benchmark in the Azorean education and vocational training system.
Nota de Imprensa
October 6, 2025
"New Elderly" is "structural programme for Azorean society to address demographic transition," says Artur Lima
The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, chaired today the closing ceremony of the presentation of the results of the "New Elderly" programme at Solar dos Remédios, in Angra do Heroísmo. The Vice-President began by recalling that "the Azores face serious and structural geographical and demographic challenges," a situation that poses "significant challenges in terms of economic development, social cohesion and quality of life as the population ages." This reality makes it "imperative that we take action with innovative social responses, with the new Elderly being a hugely creative and tremendous success," stated Artur Lima. The programme "is a humanistic achievement" as it places "seniors and their dignity at the heart of political action," he said. The implementation of differentiated and individualised care allows beneficiaries to "be closer to their spaces, their personal belongings, their families, and to have more confidence, independence and greater control over their daily lives," emphasised the Vice-President. "It gave families more time and resources to manage their family or professional lives, while also bringing recognition and professionalisation to carers through training and employment," he stressed. Mentioning the conclusions of the report “Preparing for Demographic Change in the Azores, Portugal,” published this year by the OECD, Artur Lima highlighted the measure’s potential to reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of services provided in the long term. "The Government saves money. This is an investment programme as it generates monetary savings, improves quality of life and promotes well-being," he said. Regarding the latest evaluation report on "New Elderly," drawn up by an external entity, the Vice-President of the Government highlighted its "highly positive impact." In this regard, he mentioned that participation was welcomed by all parties involved, with the majority expressing great satisfaction. Recalling all the entities involved and expressing his gratitude to all the team members who designed and implemented "New Elderly," Artur Lima pointed out that "it was worth fighting for what we believe in," despite the "many difficulties, battles and daily struggles." For the Vice-President of the Government, "this is a structuring programme for Azorean society." "Today, I feel enormous gratitude. Not for myself but for our elderly," he stressed. The "New Elderly" programme, created in 2022 with funding from the RRP, has already benefited 519 elderly people. There are currently 400 beneficiaries in the Region.
October 6, 2025
"New Elderly" is "structural programme for Azorean society to address demographic transition," says Artur Lima
The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, chaired today the closing ceremony of the presentation of the results of the "New Elderly" programme at Solar dos Remédios, in Angra do Heroísmo. The Vice-President began by recalling that "the Azores face serious and structural geographical and demographic challenges," a situation that poses "significant challenges in terms of economic development, social cohesion and quality of life as the population ages." This reality makes it "imperative that we take action with innovative social responses, with the new Elderly being a hugely creative and tremendous success," stated Artur Lima. The programme "is a humanistic achievement" as it places "seniors and their dignity at the heart of political action," he said. The implementation of differentiated and individualised care allows beneficiaries to "be closer to their spaces, their personal belongings, their families, and to have more confidence, independence and greater control over their daily lives," emphasised the Vice-President. "It gave families more time and resources to manage their family or professional lives, while also bringing recognition and professionalisation to carers through training and employment," he stressed. Mentioning the conclusions of the report “Preparing for Demographic Change in the Azores, Portugal,” published this year by the OECD, Artur Lima highlighted the measure’s potential to reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of services provided in the long term. "The Government saves money. This is an investment programme as it generates monetary savings, improves quality of life and promotes well-being," he said. Regarding the latest evaluation report on "New Elderly," drawn up by an external entity, the Vice-President of the Government highlighted its "highly positive impact." In this regard, he mentioned that participation was welcomed by all parties involved, with the majority expressing great satisfaction. Recalling all the entities involved and expressing his gratitude to all the team members who designed and implemented "New Elderly," Artur Lima pointed out that "it was worth fighting for what we believe in," despite the "many difficulties, battles and daily struggles." For the Vice-President of the Government, "this is a structuring programme for Azorean society." "Today, I feel enormous gratitude. Not for myself but for our elderly," he stressed. The "New Elderly" programme, created in 2022 with funding from the RRP, has already benefited 519 elderly people. There are currently 400 beneficiaries in the Region.