Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional
Vice-Presidência do Governo reforça capacitação das entidades públicas e adoção da LINKA
Vice-Presidência do Governo reforça capacitação das entidades públicas e adoção da LINKA
Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro destaca reforço da Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial com novas viaturas, equipamentos e cobertura total de médicos de família
José Manuel Bolieiro destaca reforço da Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial com novas viaturas, equipamentos e cobertura total de médicos de família
Secretaria Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades
Regional Government promotes literary residency in Flores and Corvo marking 600th anniversary of archipelago’s discovery
Regional Government promotes literary residency in Flores and Corvo marking 600th anniversary of archipelago’s discovery
Secretaria Regional das Finanças, Planeamento e Administração Pública
Duarte Freitas highlights major transformation in regional public administration over recent decades
Duarte Freitas highlights major transformation in regional public administration over recent decades
Government Members Appointments
Jul
10
Jul
10
Jul
10
Jul
10
09:00
Conclusões do Conselho do Governo
Colónia Alemã, na Horta.
Colónia Alemã, na Horta.
Presidente do Governo
Jul
10
10:00
Trabalhos do plenário da Assembleia Legislativa da Região Autónoma dos Açores
ALRAA, na Horta.
ALRAA, na Horta.
Membros do Governo
Jul
10
14:00
Visita ao Hospital de Santo Espírito da Ilha Terceira
Canada do Breado, Angra do Heroísmo.
Canada do Breado, Angra do Heroísmo.
Secretária Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social
Latest News
Nota de Imprensa
July 9, 2026
Vice-Presidência do Governo reforça capacitação das entidades públicas e adoção da LINKA
A Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional dos Açores, através da Direção Regional das Comunicações e da Transição Digital (DRCTD), está a promover um conjunto de sessões de capacitação junto das entidades da Administração Pública Regional com o objetivo de apoiar a digitalização e desmaterialização dos serviços públicos, reforçando a adoção da arquitetura LINKA e potenciando a utilização do Portal de Serviços dos Açores como canal único de acesso aos serviços digitais da Região. Estas iniciativas enquadram-se na estratégia de modernização administrativa do Governo dos Açores e visam apoiar as entidades na simplificação dos seus processos, promovendo uma Administração Pública mais eficiente, integrada e centrada nas necessidades dos cidadãos e das empresas. Esta ação insere-se igualmente nas atribuições da Direção Regional das Comunicações e da Transição Digital, que para além das comunicações, infraestruturas digitais e da cibersegurança, tem por missão coordenar e acompanhar a implementação da estratégia regional de transição digital, promovendo a modernização administrativa, a simplificação de processos e a adoção de soluções digitais que reforcem a eficiência dos serviços públicos e a sua proximidade aos cidadãos e às empresas. Nestas sessões de capacitação, as entidades são instadas a adotar os principais componentes da arquitetura LINKA, transformando os seus processos administrativos e a forma como disponibilizam os seus serviços públicos digitais alavancadas pela componente de interoperabilidade. O Portal de Serviços dos Açores assume um papel central nesta estratégia, constituindo-se como a porta digital única de entrada para os serviços públicos da Administração Pública Regional, um ponto único de acesso aos serviços, independentemente da entidade responsável pela sua prestação, simplificando a procura de informação, a submissão de pedidos e o acompanhamento dos processos. Complementarmente, o Azor.ID garante uma autenticação segura e integrada aos serviços digitais da Região, permitindo uma experiência mais simples e consistente para os utilizadores. Já o RegiDoc disponibiliza mecanismos de certificação e gestão de documentos oficiais, contribuindo para a rastreabilidade, segurança e confiança dos procedimentos administrativos eletrónicos. As ações de capacitação LINKA envolvem a apresentação detalhada de mais de uma dezena de módulos aplicacionais da arquitetura interoperável, têm decorrido no mês de junho e continuam no mês de julho, envolvem os departamentos da Administração Pública Regional. Decorre em simultâneo micro sessões de trabalho dedicadas aos serviços específicos de cada entidade, permitindo analisar casos concretos, esclarecer dúvidas e apoiar diretamente os processos de desmaterialização em curso. Esta abordagem procura garantir que as entidades adquiram não apenas conhecimento sobre as ferramentas tecnológicas disponíveis, mas também autonomia para conduzir os seus próprios processos de transformação digital de forma sustentada no ecossistema LINKA, evitando-se não apenas a criação de ferramentas departamentais próprias, redundantes e sem integração, mas também a substituição de um conjunto alargado de aplicações obsoletas. A Direção Regional das Comunicações e da Transição Digital tem reforçado o acompanhamento próximo das entidades públicas, assumindo um papel ativo na gestão da mudança organizacional, um processo contínuo de capacitação, colaboração e apoio humano, reconhecendo que a modernização dos serviços públicos depende tanto da tecnologia como das pessoas que a utilizam diariamente.
July 9, 2026
Vice-Presidência do Governo reforça capacitação das entidades públicas e adoção da LINKA
A Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional dos Açores, através da Direção Regional das Comunicações e da Transição Digital (DRCTD), está a promover um conjunto de sessões de capacitação junto das entidades da Administração Pública Regional com o objetivo de apoiar a digitalização e desmaterialização dos serviços públicos, reforçando a adoção da arquitetura LINKA e potenciando a utilização do Portal de Serviços dos Açores como canal único de acesso aos serviços digitais da Região. Estas iniciativas enquadram-se na estratégia de modernização administrativa do Governo dos Açores e visam apoiar as entidades na simplificação dos seus processos, promovendo uma Administração Pública mais eficiente, integrada e centrada nas necessidades dos cidadãos e das empresas. Esta ação insere-se igualmente nas atribuições da Direção Regional das Comunicações e da Transição Digital, que para além das comunicações, infraestruturas digitais e da cibersegurança, tem por missão coordenar e acompanhar a implementação da estratégia regional de transição digital, promovendo a modernização administrativa, a simplificação de processos e a adoção de soluções digitais que reforcem a eficiência dos serviços públicos e a sua proximidade aos cidadãos e às empresas. Nestas sessões de capacitação, as entidades são instadas a adotar os principais componentes da arquitetura LINKA, transformando os seus processos administrativos e a forma como disponibilizam os seus serviços públicos digitais alavancadas pela componente de interoperabilidade. O Portal de Serviços dos Açores assume um papel central nesta estratégia, constituindo-se como a porta digital única de entrada para os serviços públicos da Administração Pública Regional, um ponto único de acesso aos serviços, independentemente da entidade responsável pela sua prestação, simplificando a procura de informação, a submissão de pedidos e o acompanhamento dos processos. Complementarmente, o Azor.ID garante uma autenticação segura e integrada aos serviços digitais da Região, permitindo uma experiência mais simples e consistente para os utilizadores. Já o RegiDoc disponibiliza mecanismos de certificação e gestão de documentos oficiais, contribuindo para a rastreabilidade, segurança e confiança dos procedimentos administrativos eletrónicos. As ações de capacitação LINKA envolvem a apresentação detalhada de mais de uma dezena de módulos aplicacionais da arquitetura interoperável, têm decorrido no mês de junho e continuam no mês de julho, envolvem os departamentos da Administração Pública Regional. Decorre em simultâneo micro sessões de trabalho dedicadas aos serviços específicos de cada entidade, permitindo analisar casos concretos, esclarecer dúvidas e apoiar diretamente os processos de desmaterialização em curso. Esta abordagem procura garantir que as entidades adquiram não apenas conhecimento sobre as ferramentas tecnológicas disponíveis, mas também autonomia para conduzir os seus próprios processos de transformação digital de forma sustentada no ecossistema LINKA, evitando-se não apenas a criação de ferramentas departamentais próprias, redundantes e sem integração, mas também a substituição de um conjunto alargado de aplicações obsoletas. A Direção Regional das Comunicações e da Transição Digital tem reforçado o acompanhamento próximo das entidades públicas, assumindo um papel ativo na gestão da mudança organizacional, um processo contínuo de capacitação, colaboração e apoio humano, reconhecendo que a modernização dos serviços públicos depende tanto da tecnologia como das pessoas que a utilizam diariamente.
Nota de Imprensa
July 9, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro destaca reforço da Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial com novas viaturas, equipamentos e cobertura total de médicos de família
O Presidente do Governo dos Açores, José Manuel Bolieiro, presidiu hoje à entrega de seis viaturas elétricas e de dois novos equipamentos de medicina dentária à Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial (USIF), investimentos financiados pelo Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência (PRR) que reforçam a capacidade de resposta dos cuidados de saúde primários na ilha. Na ocasião, o líder do executivo açoriano sublinhou que este investimento resulta da capacidade do Governo dos Açores em aproveitar os recursos comunitários para modernizar o Serviço Regional de Saúde. "Esta era uma ambição que conseguimos concretizar graças ao cumprimento rigoroso dos marcos e metas do PRR. Aproveitámos esta oportunidade para reforçar os recursos disponíveis para a saúde e aumentar a capacidade de resposta junto da população", afirmou José Manuel Bolieiro. As seis viaturas elétricas, num investimento de cerca de 268 mil euros, permitem não só substituir três veículos que já tinham atingido o fim da sua vida útil, como duplicar a frota ao serviço da Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial, reforçando particularmente a prestação de cuidados de saúde no domicílio. O líder do executivo açoriano destacou igualmente o investimento realizado na área da saúde oral, com a aquisição de duas cadeiras de medicina dentária de última geração, num valor de cerca de 34 mil euros. "Não nos limitámos a substituir equipamentos. Passámos a dispor de duas cadeiras de medicina dentária, das mais modernas da atualidade, o que permitirá à Unidade de Saúde desenvolver uma intervenção cada vez mais proativa no rastreio e na promoção da saúde oral dos faialenses", salientou. Entre 2021 e 2026, o Governo dos Açores investiu cerca de 565 mil euros na Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial, dos quais mais de 300 mil euros foram financiados pelo PRR, contemplando ainda a aquisição de equipamentos como monitores de sinais vitais, candeeiros cirúrgicos e equipamentos informáticos, contribuindo para a modernização tecnológica da unidade. José Manuel Bolieiro destacou ainda os progressos alcançados ao nível dos recursos humanos, lembrando que a contratação de três médicas de Medicina Geral e Familiar permite atingir a cobertura total de médicos de família na ilha. "A cobertura de médicos de família no Faial atinge agora os 100%, um sinal muito positivo da evolução que estamos a assegurar no Serviço Regional de Saúde, sobretudo ao nível dos cuidados de saúde primários", frisou. A Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial assume um papel determinante na prestação de cuidados de proximidade à população, particularmente num contexto arquipelágico, onde os cuidados de saúde primários são fundamentais para promover a prevenção da doença, o acompanhamento das patologias crónicas e a articulação com os cuidados hospitalares. Os resultados deste reforço são já visíveis. Entre 2021 e o primeiro semestre de 2026, o Serviço Domiciliário da USIF realizou quase 50 mil consultas médicas e de enfermagem, evidenciando a crescente aposta na prestação de cuidados junto das famílias. Também na medicina dentária se verifica uma evolução significativa, tendo sido realizadas mais de 13 mil consultas desde 2021, com um crescimento de cerca de 36% entre 2024 e 2025.
July 9, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro destaca reforço da Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial com novas viaturas, equipamentos e cobertura total de médicos de família
O Presidente do Governo dos Açores, José Manuel Bolieiro, presidiu hoje à entrega de seis viaturas elétricas e de dois novos equipamentos de medicina dentária à Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial (USIF), investimentos financiados pelo Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência (PRR) que reforçam a capacidade de resposta dos cuidados de saúde primários na ilha. Na ocasião, o líder do executivo açoriano sublinhou que este investimento resulta da capacidade do Governo dos Açores em aproveitar os recursos comunitários para modernizar o Serviço Regional de Saúde. "Esta era uma ambição que conseguimos concretizar graças ao cumprimento rigoroso dos marcos e metas do PRR. Aproveitámos esta oportunidade para reforçar os recursos disponíveis para a saúde e aumentar a capacidade de resposta junto da população", afirmou José Manuel Bolieiro. As seis viaturas elétricas, num investimento de cerca de 268 mil euros, permitem não só substituir três veículos que já tinham atingido o fim da sua vida útil, como duplicar a frota ao serviço da Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial, reforçando particularmente a prestação de cuidados de saúde no domicílio. O líder do executivo açoriano destacou igualmente o investimento realizado na área da saúde oral, com a aquisição de duas cadeiras de medicina dentária de última geração, num valor de cerca de 34 mil euros. "Não nos limitámos a substituir equipamentos. Passámos a dispor de duas cadeiras de medicina dentária, das mais modernas da atualidade, o que permitirá à Unidade de Saúde desenvolver uma intervenção cada vez mais proativa no rastreio e na promoção da saúde oral dos faialenses", salientou. Entre 2021 e 2026, o Governo dos Açores investiu cerca de 565 mil euros na Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial, dos quais mais de 300 mil euros foram financiados pelo PRR, contemplando ainda a aquisição de equipamentos como monitores de sinais vitais, candeeiros cirúrgicos e equipamentos informáticos, contribuindo para a modernização tecnológica da unidade. José Manuel Bolieiro destacou ainda os progressos alcançados ao nível dos recursos humanos, lembrando que a contratação de três médicas de Medicina Geral e Familiar permite atingir a cobertura total de médicos de família na ilha. "A cobertura de médicos de família no Faial atinge agora os 100%, um sinal muito positivo da evolução que estamos a assegurar no Serviço Regional de Saúde, sobretudo ao nível dos cuidados de saúde primários", frisou. A Unidade de Saúde da Ilha do Faial assume um papel determinante na prestação de cuidados de proximidade à população, particularmente num contexto arquipelágico, onde os cuidados de saúde primários são fundamentais para promover a prevenção da doença, o acompanhamento das patologias crónicas e a articulação com os cuidados hospitalares. Os resultados deste reforço são já visíveis. Entre 2021 e o primeiro semestre de 2026, o Serviço Domiciliário da USIF realizou quase 50 mil consultas médicas e de enfermagem, evidenciando a crescente aposta na prestação de cuidados junto das famílias. Também na medicina dentária se verifica uma evolução significativa, tendo sido realizadas mais de 13 mil consultas desde 2021, com um crescimento de cerca de 36% entre 2024 e 2025.
Nota de Imprensa
July 8, 2026
Regional Government promotes literary residency in Flores and Corvo marking 600th anniversary of archipelago’s discovery
The Regional Secretariat for Parliamentary Affairs and Communities, in partnership with the National Culture Centre and the Disquiet project, will promote a literary residency on the Western Group Islands between July 12 and 18. The initiative is part of the preparations for the celebrations marking the 600th anniversary of the discovery of the Azores, to be commemorated in 2027, and is dedicated to reflecting on concepts of interculturalism, shared experiences, outermost regions and island autonomy. The Disquiet project promotes exchange and immersion for American writers in Portuguese culture, having already organised activities in the Azores in previous editions focused on the sharing and symbiosis of cultural heritages that shape identity. In this regard, it was deemed strategic to integrate this activity within the large-scale project celebrating the 600th anniversary. It highlights a crucial part of the archipelago’s history closely linked to its literature and the great literary figures who were born here or passed through, whilst simultaneously promoting its geostrategic role in the middle of the Atlantic. During the stay on the islands of Flores and Corvo, the event’s host will be Gabriela Silva, a member of the network of volunteer partners for the project marking the 600th anniversary of the discovery of the Azores. She will be assisted by Professor Onésimo Teotónio de Almeida and Leonor Simas-Almeida, who will guide the group of American writers on an in-depth exploration of the culture of these territories and their communities, encouraging the sharing of perspectives on what it means to be Azorean and the true essence of the Azores.
July 8, 2026
Regional Government promotes literary residency in Flores and Corvo marking 600th anniversary of archipelago’s discovery
The Regional Secretariat for Parliamentary Affairs and Communities, in partnership with the National Culture Centre and the Disquiet project, will promote a literary residency on the Western Group Islands between July 12 and 18. The initiative is part of the preparations for the celebrations marking the 600th anniversary of the discovery of the Azores, to be commemorated in 2027, and is dedicated to reflecting on concepts of interculturalism, shared experiences, outermost regions and island autonomy. The Disquiet project promotes exchange and immersion for American writers in Portuguese culture, having already organised activities in the Azores in previous editions focused on the sharing and symbiosis of cultural heritages that shape identity. In this regard, it was deemed strategic to integrate this activity within the large-scale project celebrating the 600th anniversary. It highlights a crucial part of the archipelago’s history closely linked to its literature and the great literary figures who were born here or passed through, whilst simultaneously promoting its geostrategic role in the middle of the Atlantic. During the stay on the islands of Flores and Corvo, the event’s host will be Gabriela Silva, a member of the network of volunteer partners for the project marking the 600th anniversary of the discovery of the Azores. She will be assisted by Professor Onésimo Teotónio de Almeida and Leonor Simas-Almeida, who will guide the group of American writers on an in-depth exploration of the culture of these territories and their communities, encouraging the sharing of perspectives on what it means to be Azorean and the true essence of the Azores.
Nota de Imprensa
July 8, 2026
Duarte Freitas highlights major transformation in regional public administration over recent decades
The Regional Secretary for Finance, Planning and Public Administration, Duarte Freitas, stated today that the Regional Government is undertaking a structural reform of the Regional Public Administration, based on the simplification of procedures, the upskilling of staff and technological modernisation, with a view to rendering public services faster, more transparent and more accessible to citizens and businesses. Speaking at the Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of the Azores during the urgent debate on bureaucracy in the Regional Public Administration, the government official emphasised that the Government “does not underestimate the difficulties faced by citizens and businesses,” but rejected the idea that the Government is not addressing this challenge. “The fight against bureaucracy requires a consistent strategy, investment, organisational change and the capacity to transform the way the public administration works,” he stated. For Duarte Freitas, simplification means eliminating unnecessary procedures, reducing response times, avoiding duplication of documents and making interactions with the public administration clearer, more predictable and more efficient for citizens and businesses. The Regional Secretary defended that the ongoing transformation is based on a clear priority: “people first, then processes, and only then technology.” "The biggest mistake would be to think that making forms digital is enough to eliminate paperwork. Digitising complicated procedures merely creates digital red tape. We genuinely aim to simplify the public administration," he emphasised. Duarte Freitas highlighted that 557 training initiatives have been organised since 2021, involving more than 14,900 Regional Public Administration workers. In this regard, he noted that “a simpler administration begins with better-prepared staff, more capable managers and teams with the autonomy to improve processes.” The government official also recalled that the Government had approved the Regional Public Administration Rejuvenation Plan and launched the new Azores Public Employment Exchange, which has already received over 15,000 digital applications, paving the way for a generational renewal of public services. As for administrative reorganisation, Duarte Freitas highlighted the implementation of GIRA – the new Integrated Information Management System – which will help redesign internal processes, eliminate redundancies, reduce paper usage and increase transparency in administrative procedures. “Citizens do not want to know which department their case is with. They want to know whether it has been received, what stage it is at and when they can expect a response. This is what we are building,” he said. The Regional Secretary also highlighted the investment of €30.6 million, funded under the RRP-Azores, to accelerate the modernisation of the Regional Public Administration through the creation of new digital platforms, the LINKA technology architecture and the future Regional Public Administration Services Portal, which will provide citizens with a single point of contact with the Public Administration to follow up on their requests. According to Duarte Freitas, this transformation is also reaching front-line services through the upgrading of RIAC, the Regional Public Administration Contact Centre and the RIAC Móvel project, ensuring that digital transformation does not exclude those who still require in-person assistance. "Our commitment is to build a public administration that respects citizens’ time, businesses’ investment and the work of its professionals. We need a Public Administration that is simpler, more transparent, more efficient and closer to the people," he said. Acknowledging that there are still procedures that need to be simplified, Duarte Freitas defended that the difference lies in having a clear problem-solving strategy. “Modernisation is not about buying technology. Modernisation is about changing how the Public Administration thinks, makes decisions and serves the public. It is about transforming bureaucracy into trust and making the Public Administration a partner to citizens and businesses, rather than an obstacle,” he concluded.
July 8, 2026
Duarte Freitas highlights major transformation in regional public administration over recent decades
The Regional Secretary for Finance, Planning and Public Administration, Duarte Freitas, stated today that the Regional Government is undertaking a structural reform of the Regional Public Administration, based on the simplification of procedures, the upskilling of staff and technological modernisation, with a view to rendering public services faster, more transparent and more accessible to citizens and businesses. Speaking at the Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of the Azores during the urgent debate on bureaucracy in the Regional Public Administration, the government official emphasised that the Government “does not underestimate the difficulties faced by citizens and businesses,” but rejected the idea that the Government is not addressing this challenge. “The fight against bureaucracy requires a consistent strategy, investment, organisational change and the capacity to transform the way the public administration works,” he stated. For Duarte Freitas, simplification means eliminating unnecessary procedures, reducing response times, avoiding duplication of documents and making interactions with the public administration clearer, more predictable and more efficient for citizens and businesses. The Regional Secretary defended that the ongoing transformation is based on a clear priority: “people first, then processes, and only then technology.” "The biggest mistake would be to think that making forms digital is enough to eliminate paperwork. Digitising complicated procedures merely creates digital red tape. We genuinely aim to simplify the public administration," he emphasised. Duarte Freitas highlighted that 557 training initiatives have been organised since 2021, involving more than 14,900 Regional Public Administration workers. In this regard, he noted that “a simpler administration begins with better-prepared staff, more capable managers and teams with the autonomy to improve processes.” The government official also recalled that the Government had approved the Regional Public Administration Rejuvenation Plan and launched the new Azores Public Employment Exchange, which has already received over 15,000 digital applications, paving the way for a generational renewal of public services. As for administrative reorganisation, Duarte Freitas highlighted the implementation of GIRA – the new Integrated Information Management System – which will help redesign internal processes, eliminate redundancies, reduce paper usage and increase transparency in administrative procedures. “Citizens do not want to know which department their case is with. They want to know whether it has been received, what stage it is at and when they can expect a response. This is what we are building,” he said. The Regional Secretary also highlighted the investment of €30.6 million, funded under the RRP-Azores, to accelerate the modernisation of the Regional Public Administration through the creation of new digital platforms, the LINKA technology architecture and the future Regional Public Administration Services Portal, which will provide citizens with a single point of contact with the Public Administration to follow up on their requests. According to Duarte Freitas, this transformation is also reaching front-line services through the upgrading of RIAC, the Regional Public Administration Contact Centre and the RIAC Móvel project, ensuring that digital transformation does not exclude those who still require in-person assistance. "Our commitment is to build a public administration that respects citizens’ time, businesses’ investment and the work of its professionals. We need a Public Administration that is simpler, more transparent, more efficient and closer to the people," he said. Acknowledging that there are still procedures that need to be simplified, Duarte Freitas defended that the difference lies in having a clear problem-solving strategy. “Modernisation is not about buying technology. Modernisation is about changing how the Public Administration thinks, makes decisions and serves the public. It is about transforming bureaucracy into trust and making the Public Administration a partner to citizens and businesses, rather than an obstacle,” he concluded.
Nota de Imprensa
July 8, 2026
Vice-Presidency launches “INOVAR 2030” with over €13 million to boost business research and innovation
The Vice-Presidency of the Regional Government published today Ordinance no.76/2026, which approves the Specific Regulations for the Research and Innovation Incentive Scheme, known as “INOVAR 2030”. With this incentive scheme aimed at the business sector, the aim is to develop and boost regional research and innovation capabilities, as well as the adoption of advanced technologies in the Azores. INOVAR 2030 will ensure that the new incentives fall within the scope of the General Block Exemption Regulation, overcoming the limitations of previous programmes under which these incentives were granted under the de minimis scheme with a maximum aid intensity of €200,000. The existence of a specific regulation responds to the ambitions of entrepreneurs and researchers who were previously severely constrained by financial restrictions. It is now possible to support projects of greater scale, risk and technological intensity. According to the Vice-President of the Government, “INOVAR 2030 represents a true paradigm shift for industrial research and experimental development in the Azores." “Being covered by the General Block Exemption Regulation "will free us from the constraints and limitations of the de minimis scheme, which often blocked or rejected highly relevant applications as companies had exhausted their available funding ceiling,” he emphasised. Artur Lima emphasised that “clear, consistent and transparent conditions are being created to fund structural projects, which require significant investment and have the potential to generate significant impacts on the integration of innovation and the competitiveness of the productive sector.” The new regulation will ensure that “investment in R&D (Research and Development) translates into a stronger, knowledge-intensive regional economy that generates lasting value for the Azores and Azorean residents," he stressed. INOVAR 2030 provides for the gradual launch of calls for applications dedicated to the creation of scientific and technological knowledge, scientific infrastructure, skilled entrepreneurship and technology transfer. Regarding business R&D, the programme includes a range of tools such as demonstration projects, mobilisation programmes, R&DT hubs, simplified projects and proof-of-concept projects, catering for a variety of investment profiles and stages of technological maturity. The base funding rates for eligible expenditure will be up to 50% for industrial research and up to 25% for experimental development. However, depending on the company's size, its level of effective collaboration or the widespread dissemination of results, the maximum aid intensity may reach 80%. As one of the goals is to strengthen R&I (Research and Innovation) capabilities among SMEs, they will be the main beneficiaries of these optimised rates. In co-funded projects, non-business entities within the regional scientific system may see their funding rise to 85%. Artur Lima also noted that “following the launch of INOVAR 2030, the conditions are now in place to publish, before the end of this year, calls for proposals with a total budget of over €13 million aimed at projects led by regional companies.” The INOVAR 2030 Incentive Scheme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Azores 2030 Programme.
July 8, 2026
Vice-Presidency launches “INOVAR 2030” with over €13 million to boost business research and innovation
The Vice-Presidency of the Regional Government published today Ordinance no.76/2026, which approves the Specific Regulations for the Research and Innovation Incentive Scheme, known as “INOVAR 2030”. With this incentive scheme aimed at the business sector, the aim is to develop and boost regional research and innovation capabilities, as well as the adoption of advanced technologies in the Azores. INOVAR 2030 will ensure that the new incentives fall within the scope of the General Block Exemption Regulation, overcoming the limitations of previous programmes under which these incentives were granted under the de minimis scheme with a maximum aid intensity of €200,000. The existence of a specific regulation responds to the ambitions of entrepreneurs and researchers who were previously severely constrained by financial restrictions. It is now possible to support projects of greater scale, risk and technological intensity. According to the Vice-President of the Government, “INOVAR 2030 represents a true paradigm shift for industrial research and experimental development in the Azores." “Being covered by the General Block Exemption Regulation "will free us from the constraints and limitations of the de minimis scheme, which often blocked or rejected highly relevant applications as companies had exhausted their available funding ceiling,” he emphasised. Artur Lima emphasised that “clear, consistent and transparent conditions are being created to fund structural projects, which require significant investment and have the potential to generate significant impacts on the integration of innovation and the competitiveness of the productive sector.” The new regulation will ensure that “investment in R&D (Research and Development) translates into a stronger, knowledge-intensive regional economy that generates lasting value for the Azores and Azorean residents," he stressed. INOVAR 2030 provides for the gradual launch of calls for applications dedicated to the creation of scientific and technological knowledge, scientific infrastructure, skilled entrepreneurship and technology transfer. Regarding business R&D, the programme includes a range of tools such as demonstration projects, mobilisation programmes, R&DT hubs, simplified projects and proof-of-concept projects, catering for a variety of investment profiles and stages of technological maturity. The base funding rates for eligible expenditure will be up to 50% for industrial research and up to 25% for experimental development. However, depending on the company's size, its level of effective collaboration or the widespread dissemination of results, the maximum aid intensity may reach 80%. As one of the goals is to strengthen R&I (Research and Innovation) capabilities among SMEs, they will be the main beneficiaries of these optimised rates. In co-funded projects, non-business entities within the regional scientific system may see their funding rise to 85%. Artur Lima also noted that “following the launch of INOVAR 2030, the conditions are now in place to publish, before the end of this year, calls for proposals with a total budget of over €13 million aimed at projects led by regional companies.” The INOVAR 2030 Incentive Scheme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Azores 2030 Programme.
Nota de Imprensa
July 7, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights improved community-based care with handover of 20 electric vehicles to São Miguel Island Health Unit
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the handover ceremony of 20 electric vehicles to the São Miguel Island Health Unit (USISM) in Ponta Delgada, representing an investment of €896,178, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). He emphasised that the initiative represents “another transformative moment” for the Regional Health Service and reflects the priority the Government has given to the health sector. The head of the Azorean Government emphasised that this fleet renewal stems from a “strategic vision” to modernise healthcare, using available EU funds to “bolster” the capacity to respond to people’s needs. "This has been a journey of transformation. We have made use of an EU financial tool, with a very tight schedule, to make a clear commitment to healthcare as our priority is to look after people and families," he said. José Manuel Bolieiro recalled that the RRP provided a crucial opportunity to accelerate structural investments in the Regional Health Service, leading to the implementation of projects intended to improve the quality of care across all islands. The President of the Regional Government emphasised, in particular, the importance of home care, pointing out that the future of healthcare lies in being “closer” to patients. “Our vision is to bring healthcare to people’s homes, rather than having people go to healthcare facilities. Whenever possible, we must provide support, monitoring and healthcare in people’s own homes, offering greater comfort, a better quality of life and a more personalised response,” he stressed. The 20 vehicles that have now been handed over will be distributed amongst the six health centres on the island of São Miguel, bolstering the operational capacity of the multidisciplinary teams that provide medical, nursing, physiotherapy and social support to the local population daily. During the first half of 2026, teams from the São Miguel Island Health Unit conducted about 13,000 home visits. This figure highlights the growing importance of this care service and the crucial role of community-based care in the prevention, monitoring and recovery of patients. José Manuel Bolieiro also took the opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of healthcare professionals. “I would like to express my satisfaction and deep gratitude to healthcare professionals for the commitment and dedication they have always shown. Even in the face of limited resources and means, they have managed to make the most of their capacity to serve the Azorean population, the residents of São Miguel, and also all those who visit São Miguel and use our health services,” he said. The head of the Azorean Government added that this renewal of the fleet will provide better working conditions for staff and provide a swifter, more efficient and safer response to the needs of the population. Under the RRP, the purchase of the 20 electric vehicles is part of the investment project RE-C01-i11-RAA – Modernisation and Upgrading of the Regional Health Service. The vehicles will be distributed among the Health Centres of Ponta Delgada (11), Ribeira Grande (4), Vila Franca do Campo (3), Povoação (1) and Nordeste (1). Between 2021 and 2026, the Azores Government’s investment in the São Miguel Island Health Unit exceeded €3.4 million, with around €2.4 million funded under the RRP. This investment has led, amongst other measures, to the acquisition of new radiology equipment for various health centres, five dental chairs, 19 vital signs monitors and the renewal of the fleet, which has now been completed. The results of these efforts are also reflected in the care provided by the São Miguel Island Health Unit. Currently, the GP coverage rate stands at 96%, with around 940 professionals serving the community – 175 more than in 2019. Compared with 2021, there was a 9% increase in general and family medicine consultations, a 158% increase in consultations at Basic Emergency Units, a 94% increase in dental consultations, a 31% increase in physiotherapy sessions and a 287% increase in X-ray tests. These indicators demonstrate the improved response capacity of primary healthcare on the island of São Miguel.
July 7, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights improved community-based care with handover of 20 electric vehicles to São Miguel Island Health Unit
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the handover ceremony of 20 electric vehicles to the São Miguel Island Health Unit (USISM) in Ponta Delgada, representing an investment of €896,178, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). He emphasised that the initiative represents “another transformative moment” for the Regional Health Service and reflects the priority the Government has given to the health sector. The head of the Azorean Government emphasised that this fleet renewal stems from a “strategic vision” to modernise healthcare, using available EU funds to “bolster” the capacity to respond to people’s needs. "This has been a journey of transformation. We have made use of an EU financial tool, with a very tight schedule, to make a clear commitment to healthcare as our priority is to look after people and families," he said. José Manuel Bolieiro recalled that the RRP provided a crucial opportunity to accelerate structural investments in the Regional Health Service, leading to the implementation of projects intended to improve the quality of care across all islands. The President of the Regional Government emphasised, in particular, the importance of home care, pointing out that the future of healthcare lies in being “closer” to patients. “Our vision is to bring healthcare to people’s homes, rather than having people go to healthcare facilities. Whenever possible, we must provide support, monitoring and healthcare in people’s own homes, offering greater comfort, a better quality of life and a more personalised response,” he stressed. The 20 vehicles that have now been handed over will be distributed amongst the six health centres on the island of São Miguel, bolstering the operational capacity of the multidisciplinary teams that provide medical, nursing, physiotherapy and social support to the local population daily. During the first half of 2026, teams from the São Miguel Island Health Unit conducted about 13,000 home visits. This figure highlights the growing importance of this care service and the crucial role of community-based care in the prevention, monitoring and recovery of patients. José Manuel Bolieiro also took the opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of healthcare professionals. “I would like to express my satisfaction and deep gratitude to healthcare professionals for the commitment and dedication they have always shown. Even in the face of limited resources and means, they have managed to make the most of their capacity to serve the Azorean population, the residents of São Miguel, and also all those who visit São Miguel and use our health services,” he said. The head of the Azorean Government added that this renewal of the fleet will provide better working conditions for staff and provide a swifter, more efficient and safer response to the needs of the population. Under the RRP, the purchase of the 20 electric vehicles is part of the investment project RE-C01-i11-RAA – Modernisation and Upgrading of the Regional Health Service. The vehicles will be distributed among the Health Centres of Ponta Delgada (11), Ribeira Grande (4), Vila Franca do Campo (3), Povoação (1) and Nordeste (1). Between 2021 and 2026, the Azores Government’s investment in the São Miguel Island Health Unit exceeded €3.4 million, with around €2.4 million funded under the RRP. This investment has led, amongst other measures, to the acquisition of new radiology equipment for various health centres, five dental chairs, 19 vital signs monitors and the renewal of the fleet, which has now been completed. The results of these efforts are also reflected in the care provided by the São Miguel Island Health Unit. Currently, the GP coverage rate stands at 96%, with around 940 professionals serving the community – 175 more than in 2019. Compared with 2021, there was a 9% increase in general and family medicine consultations, a 158% increase in consultations at Basic Emergency Units, a 94% increase in dental consultations, a 31% increase in physiotherapy sessions and a 287% increase in X-ray tests. These indicators demonstrate the improved response capacity of primary healthcare on the island of São Miguel.
Nota de Imprensa
July 7, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights “new phase” in modernisation of HDES with robotic surgery
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, observed today the first operation using the new orthopaedic surgical robot at the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital (HDES) in Ponta Delgada, considering it a “landmark” moment for the development of the Regional Health Service (SRS). The purchase of the equipment, funded under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), represents an investment of €1.1 million in HDES. Along with the equipment already in operation at the Santo Espírito Hospital of Terceira Island (HSEIT), the overall investment amounts to €2.35 million, reinforcing the Regional Government’s commitment to the technological modernisation of Azorean hospitals. The head of the Azorean Government emphasised that this is “an important milestone for HDES” and that the Region is “bringing the future into the present.” “Surgical robotics represents a future with a huge impact on healthcare in the Azores. This orthopaedic robot will be a decisive aid to healthcare professionals and, above all, to patients, rendering surgeries more precise, reducing operating times, and leading to faster and less painful recoveries,” he said. The President of the Government emphasised that the equipment represents “the cutting edge of global technology” in this field, placing HDES at the forefront of technological innovation in orthopaedics. “We are enhancing our ability to serve our patients better, whilst also fulfilling a legitimate aspiration of our healthcare professionals by supplying them with the best tools to carry out their work,” he added. Robotic orthopaedic surgery ensures more rigorous surgical planning, more precise placement of prostheses, decreased invasiveness, and better clinical outcomes. This will also lead to a potential reduction in hospital stays, physiotherapy sessions, and the social costs associated with patients’ recovery. José Manuel Bolieiro positioned this investment as part of the transformation of the SRS strategy, noting that the Government has been making a strong commitment to technological innovation. “We have prioritised the technological, digital and robotic capabilities of our SRS. We are moving from words to deeds in various healthcare facilities across the Azores, building a more modern, better-equipped system that is prepared to meet the challenges of the future,” he emphasised. Between 2021 and 2026, the Regional Government’s investment in HDES will exceed €25 million, with around €14 million funded under the RRP. At the same time, the hospital has significantly expanded its staffing levels and now employs 2,418 professionals, 434 more than in 2019. In the field of Orthopaedics, HDES currently has eight specialists and seven interns, thereby further strengthening its training capacity. Care indicators also show sustained growth in hospital activity. In 2025, HDES recorded a 12% increase in the total number of consultations, a 10% rise in overall surgical activity and a 26% rise in inpatient surgeries, in addition to significant increases in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. This trend continued in 2026, with growth in surgical activity, outpatient consultations, the Day Hospital and diagnostic tests up until May. The President of the Regional Government also emphasised that the modernisation of HDES is not limited to the acquisition of equipment, highlighting the growing use of artificial intelligence to aid diagnosis, particularly in the Emergency Department, and the early identification of strokes. He also mentioned the results achieved by the STOP Infeção 2.0 project, which eliminated serious infections in the Intensive Care Unit and prevented 24 deaths, generating savings of over €439,000. For José Manuel Bolieiro, this series of investments reflects an “integrated vision” for the future of healthcare in the Region. "Modernisation is achieved through technology, but, above all, it is achieved through people. We want HDES to become increasingly attractive, better qualified and capable of providing excellent care to the Azores population, both today and in the future," he concluded.
July 7, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights “new phase” in modernisation of HDES with robotic surgery
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, observed today the first operation using the new orthopaedic surgical robot at the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital (HDES) in Ponta Delgada, considering it a “landmark” moment for the development of the Regional Health Service (SRS). The purchase of the equipment, funded under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), represents an investment of €1.1 million in HDES. Along with the equipment already in operation at the Santo Espírito Hospital of Terceira Island (HSEIT), the overall investment amounts to €2.35 million, reinforcing the Regional Government’s commitment to the technological modernisation of Azorean hospitals. The head of the Azorean Government emphasised that this is “an important milestone for HDES” and that the Region is “bringing the future into the present.” “Surgical robotics represents a future with a huge impact on healthcare in the Azores. This orthopaedic robot will be a decisive aid to healthcare professionals and, above all, to patients, rendering surgeries more precise, reducing operating times, and leading to faster and less painful recoveries,” he said. The President of the Government emphasised that the equipment represents “the cutting edge of global technology” in this field, placing HDES at the forefront of technological innovation in orthopaedics. “We are enhancing our ability to serve our patients better, whilst also fulfilling a legitimate aspiration of our healthcare professionals by supplying them with the best tools to carry out their work,” he added. Robotic orthopaedic surgery ensures more rigorous surgical planning, more precise placement of prostheses, decreased invasiveness, and better clinical outcomes. This will also lead to a potential reduction in hospital stays, physiotherapy sessions, and the social costs associated with patients’ recovery. José Manuel Bolieiro positioned this investment as part of the transformation of the SRS strategy, noting that the Government has been making a strong commitment to technological innovation. “We have prioritised the technological, digital and robotic capabilities of our SRS. We are moving from words to deeds in various healthcare facilities across the Azores, building a more modern, better-equipped system that is prepared to meet the challenges of the future,” he emphasised. Between 2021 and 2026, the Regional Government’s investment in HDES will exceed €25 million, with around €14 million funded under the RRP. At the same time, the hospital has significantly expanded its staffing levels and now employs 2,418 professionals, 434 more than in 2019. In the field of Orthopaedics, HDES currently has eight specialists and seven interns, thereby further strengthening its training capacity. Care indicators also show sustained growth in hospital activity. In 2025, HDES recorded a 12% increase in the total number of consultations, a 10% rise in overall surgical activity and a 26% rise in inpatient surgeries, in addition to significant increases in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. This trend continued in 2026, with growth in surgical activity, outpatient consultations, the Day Hospital and diagnostic tests up until May. The President of the Regional Government also emphasised that the modernisation of HDES is not limited to the acquisition of equipment, highlighting the growing use of artificial intelligence to aid diagnosis, particularly in the Emergency Department, and the early identification of strokes. He also mentioned the results achieved by the STOP Infeção 2.0 project, which eliminated serious infections in the Intensive Care Unit and prevented 24 deaths, generating savings of over €439,000. For José Manuel Bolieiro, this series of investments reflects an “integrated vision” for the future of healthcare in the Region. "Modernisation is achieved through technology, but, above all, it is achieved through people. We want HDES to become increasingly attractive, better qualified and capable of providing excellent care to the Azores population, both today and in the future," he concluded.
Nota de Imprensa
July 7, 2026
2026/2027 Hunting Season Calendars reinforce sustainable management of game resources in the Azores
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, presented the hunting calendars for the 2026/2027 season at the Terceira Hunters’ Association. Recently published in the Official Journal, the documents set out, for each island, the game species that may be hunted, the hunting seasons, the bag limits, the authorised areas and the permitted hunting methods. These schedules are drawn up as a result of the work carried out by the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning (DRRFOT). This process is based on the continuous monitoring of game populations, technical and scientific studies carried out by the forestry services on each island, and consultation with organisations representing hunters, farmers, forestry producers and environmental protection organisations. This management model provides for the annual adjustment of hunting calendars to the ecological and hunting conditions on each island, ensuring that hunting takes place sustainably, with full respect for the principles of nature conservation, biodiversity preservation and the balance of ecosystems. As a fundamental principle, game management must continuously monitor changes in the populations of different species, adjusting hunting pressure to reflect conditions observed on the ground, thereby ensuring the sustainability of the islands’ resources and the balance of their ecosystems. In this regard, the 2026/2027 hunting season focuses on wild rabbit species, whose growing population on several islands in the archipelago has justified increased hunting as a means of population management and control. At a regional level, the total number of authorised hunting days for this species has increased, notably on the island of São Jorge, where the hunting season has been extended from 68 to 106 days and the daily bag limit raised from 10 to 30 rabbits per hunter, and the island of Flores, with an increase from 46 to 158 days, along with a rise in the daily bag limit from 8 to 10 specimens per hunter. Conversely, the monitoring actions carried out by the Forestry Services confirmed the need to maintain enhanced conservation measures for some of the most vulnerable species. In the case of the common snipe species, the decline observed in the breeding population on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira and Faial has led to the hunting ban on this species being maintained in these territories. Regarding the woodcock species, the increase in hunting demand and the need to ensure population sustainability have justified reduced hunting by decreasing the number of authorised hunting days and introducing additional restrictions on some islands. For the remaining game species, hunting levels remain similar to those of the previous season, reflecting the stability of their populations and the effectiveness of the management measures currently in effect. The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food emphasised that “the Azores now have one of the most adaptive game management models, based on the continuous monitoring of populations, the involvement of organisations representing the sector, and the ability to rapidly adjust management measures whenever changes in the species’ population dynamics so justify." António Ventura also took the opportunity to thank DRRFOT and all the organisations involved in drawing up the hunting season calendars for their contribution, namely hunters’ associations, agricultural organisations, forestry producers and environmental protection organisations. He wished all Azorean hunters a safe and responsible hunting season, guided by good hunting practices.
July 7, 2026
2026/2027 Hunting Season Calendars reinforce sustainable management of game resources in the Azores
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, presented the hunting calendars for the 2026/2027 season at the Terceira Hunters’ Association. Recently published in the Official Journal, the documents set out, for each island, the game species that may be hunted, the hunting seasons, the bag limits, the authorised areas and the permitted hunting methods. These schedules are drawn up as a result of the work carried out by the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning (DRRFOT). This process is based on the continuous monitoring of game populations, technical and scientific studies carried out by the forestry services on each island, and consultation with organisations representing hunters, farmers, forestry producers and environmental protection organisations. This management model provides for the annual adjustment of hunting calendars to the ecological and hunting conditions on each island, ensuring that hunting takes place sustainably, with full respect for the principles of nature conservation, biodiversity preservation and the balance of ecosystems. As a fundamental principle, game management must continuously monitor changes in the populations of different species, adjusting hunting pressure to reflect conditions observed on the ground, thereby ensuring the sustainability of the islands’ resources and the balance of their ecosystems. In this regard, the 2026/2027 hunting season focuses on wild rabbit species, whose growing population on several islands in the archipelago has justified increased hunting as a means of population management and control. At a regional level, the total number of authorised hunting days for this species has increased, notably on the island of São Jorge, where the hunting season has been extended from 68 to 106 days and the daily bag limit raised from 10 to 30 rabbits per hunter, and the island of Flores, with an increase from 46 to 158 days, along with a rise in the daily bag limit from 8 to 10 specimens per hunter. Conversely, the monitoring actions carried out by the Forestry Services confirmed the need to maintain enhanced conservation measures for some of the most vulnerable species. In the case of the common snipe species, the decline observed in the breeding population on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira and Faial has led to the hunting ban on this species being maintained in these territories. Regarding the woodcock species, the increase in hunting demand and the need to ensure population sustainability have justified reduced hunting by decreasing the number of authorised hunting days and introducing additional restrictions on some islands. For the remaining game species, hunting levels remain similar to those of the previous season, reflecting the stability of their populations and the effectiveness of the management measures currently in effect. The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food emphasised that “the Azores now have one of the most adaptive game management models, based on the continuous monitoring of populations, the involvement of organisations representing the sector, and the ability to rapidly adjust management measures whenever changes in the species’ population dynamics so justify." António Ventura also took the opportunity to thank DRRFOT and all the organisations involved in drawing up the hunting season calendars for their contribution, namely hunters’ associations, agricultural organisations, forestry producers and environmental protection organisations. He wished all Azorean hunters a safe and responsible hunting season, guided by good hunting practices.