Media and news Regional Government of the Azores - Communication

Nota de Imprensa
April 14, 2026
Proposta do Governo dos Açores para criação de Rede de Cuidados Paliativos aprovada por unanimidade
A Secretária Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social, Mónica Seidi, apresentou hoje, em plenário da Assembleia Legislativa da Região Autónoma dos Açores, a proposta de Decreto Legislativo Regional que cria a Rede Regional de Cuidados Paliativos (RRCP), até agora inexistente de forma autónoma no Serviço Regional de Saúde, texto que foi aprovado por unanimidade. Na sua intervenção, Mónica Seidi destacou que a rede constituirá “uma resposta estruturada e integrada dirigida a pessoas com doença grave, crónica ou incurável, abrangendo também as suas famílias”. Entre os principais objetivos da RRCP estão a promoção da qualidade de vida, da dignidade e do alívio do sofrimento, bem como a garantia de acesso equitativo em todas as ilhas. A governante sublinhou a importância da articulação entre cuidados de saúde primários, hospitalares, continuados e respostas sociais e comunitárias, numa abordagem centrada na pessoa. Mónica Seidi destacou também o contributo de profissionais de saúde com experiência na área, envolvidos na elaboração do diploma e que continuarão a participar na sua regulamentação. A criação da RRCP não assenta em investimento em infraestruturas, mas sim no reforço das equipas, na formação dos profissionais e na garantia de um fim de vida digno para todos os doentes, independentemente da sua localização. Neste âmbito, o mapa de recrutamento para 2026 prevê a contratação de 90 profissionais de saúde para as Unidades de Saúde de Ilha, mais 28 do que no ano anterior. Nos próximos três meses, serão ainda entregues 58 viaturas às nove ilhas, essenciais para o funcionamento das equipas comunitárias, num investimento de cerca de três milhões de euros, financiado pelo PRR. A formação é igualmente uma prioridade, sendo reconhecida como determinante para o sucesso dos cuidados paliativos. Ao longo deste ano e do próximo, serão promovidas ações formativas aos profissionais de Santa Maria ao Corvo, com base na capacidade instalada da Unidade de Cuidados Paliativos do Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo. “O caminho está traçado. Importa adaptar o melhor modelo à nossa realidade, garantindo que todos os açorianos têm acesso a cuidados dignos em fim de vida”, afirmou. A Secretária Regional concluiu sublinhando que os cuidados paliativos devem ser reconhecidos como um direito humano, reforçando que “morrer também exige dignidade”.

Nota de Imprensa
April 14, 2026
"Supporting the Azores is investing in Europe," says José Manuel Bolieiro
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, highlighted today at the Regional Legislative Assembly the work carried out by the Azorean Government with European institutions to safeguard the Region’s interests in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034. In his speech, the head of the Azorean Government analysed the European Commission’s proposal within the current international context. “The European Commission, in response to the war in Ukraine and global geopolitical instability, is setting new priorities such as security and defence,” he said, while leaving a warning: “It is impossible to do more or set new priorities, with less money.” José Manuel Bolieiro criticised the proposal, considering that it “undermines the distinctive nature of the Outermost Regions and fails to uphold Article 349 of the Treaty.” In this regard, he warned of the risks of diluting the specific characteristics of the Azores in areas such as agriculture, fisheries and cohesion. Nevertheless, he made a point of highlighting the actions undertaken by the Azorean Government since the beginning of this process.  “From the very outset, the Regional Government has made its position clear,” he stated, noting that this is aligned with the resolution adopted by the Legislative Assembly. The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the range of initiatives undertaken to shape the European proposal. “The President of the Regional Government has written to the President of the European Commission, the European Parliament and the European Council in support of the Outermost Regions,” he said, adding that the Region has played an active role in the Conference of Presidents of the Outermost Regions. This work is complemented by direct contact with European officials. He stated that the Region has held meetings with various key figures, including the Vice-President of the European Commission, Raffaele Fitto, as well as the Commissioners responsible for fisheries and agriculture, amongst other stakeholders. Regarding the positions advocated by the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the need to guarantee “co-financing rates” suited to the realities of the Outermost Regions and to ensure that “funding for the Outermost Regions is not subject to the discretion of Member States.” The President of the Regional Government also reiterated the importance of preserving key instruments for the Region. He defended the “maintenance and strengthening of the current POSEI Agriculture programme as an autonomous instrument,” as well as the creation of new measures to address the costs of remoteness, such as a POSEI programme for Transport. From a political standpoint, he took a firm stance against the centralisation of fund management. “We do not agree with the centralisation of funds within national governments, nor with any reduction in the effective participation of the Outermost Regions in shaping their own development,” he stated. José Manuel Bolieiro also highlighted the role of the Azores in the European and Atlantic context: “The Outermost Regions and the Azores, in particular, are a strategic asset for the European Union in the Atlantic,” he said, warning that “the Atlantic is too important to be overlooked.” The head of the Azorean Government further emphasised the idea that European support for the Region should be regarded as an investment. “Supporting our farmers, fishers, entrepreneurs and citizens will never be a cost to the European Union, but rather an investment,” he stated, defending that the Azores remain an active and relevant part of the European project.

Nota de Imprensa
April 14, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights work carried out on Faial during meeting with Island Council’s Board
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, received the Board of the Faial Island Council, chaired by Teresa Ribeiro, at the German Colony in Horta, for a meeting aimed at strengthening the Regional Government’s strategy of institutional proximity. The head of the Azorean Government recalled that this round of meetings also included meetings with the Boards of the Island Councils of São Miguel and Terceira, emphasising the importance of maintaining direct contact with representative bodies. This meeting concludes a series of meetings with the Island Councils of the three islands that are not covered by formal statutory visits, unlike the remaining six. “This is a time to value our joint efforts towards tangible solutions for the island’s development. The careful attention we have paid to local priorities will be crucial for more effective governance decisions,” stated José Manuel Bolieiro. The President of the Government also highlighted the importance of dialogue and institutional collaboration. “Our commitment is to active consultation and joint work, respecting the specific characteristics of each island and building shared solutions,” he added. During the audience, the Island Council’s Board presented a memorandum containing various concerns and proposals, with special focus on transport links, especially air travel and maritime transport, namely the Horta Port.   Meanwhile, the impact of investments made in the maritime sector was acknowledged at the meeting. José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the commitment to the “Maritime Cluster,” with projects such as the research vessel, part of the RRP goals, and the MARTEC Technopole. “We are establishing Faial as a true coastal community, promoting its identity and consolidating its international standing,” he said. The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss areas such as healthcare, land accessibility and social cohesion. Particular attention was drawn to the future bypass to the city of Horta, an RRP project expected to significantly improve mobility and access to services. Regarding social solidarity, the President of the Government reiterated the importance of ensuring the sustainability of Private Social Solidarity Institutions, whilst also highlighting the role of the private sector in boosting the local economy. José Manuel Bolieiro also highlighted the international prestige of Horta Marina: “It is a world-class facility that puts the Azores on the global map and should be a source of pride for all Azoreans,” he said. As for air connectivity, the President of the Government highlighted the improvement of inter-island flight connections, with plans to add a weekly service on the Ponta Delgada–Horta–Ponta Delgada route during the 2026 IATA summer, between July and August, as part of public service obligations. This audience thus reinforces the Regional Government’s commitment to community-based governance, based on dialogue and joint development of solutions for the balanced development of each island.

Nota de Imprensa
April 13, 2026
Applications for 92 houses in Nascer do Sol Neighbourhood to run from April 15 to May 8
The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, has announced that the application period for the 92 single-family houses in the Nascer do Sol Neighbourhood in Praia da Vitória, Terceira Island, will open on Wednesday, April 15.  According to the Order published today in the Official Journal, the application period will run until May 8, inclusive. Applications must be submitted using the appropriate form available on the Regional Directorate for Housing (DRH) website at https://portal. azores.gov.pt/web/drh/concursos-habitacao-arrendamento-opcao-compra, where the Regulations are also available for consultation. Applications should be submitted in one of the following formats:  DRH Services, located at Rua Dr. João Francisco de Sousa, no. 30, 9500-187, Ponta Delgada; Terceira Island Housing Services, located at Rua dos Italianos, no. 10, 9700-099, Angra do Heroísmo; RIAC - Integrated Citizen Support Network Offices; or submitted online at https://habitacao.azores.gov.pt. The 92 dwellings comprise 19 three-bedroom houses and 73 four-bedroom houses, representing an investment of €11 million funded under the RRP. They “will boost the housing supply in the municipality of Praia da Vitória and on Terceira Island, thereby creating the conditions for families – and young people in particular – to settle there,” emphasised Maria João Carreiro.  These houses will be allocated under a lease with purchase option scheme for the permanent residence of applicants and their households. Any requests for clarification regarding the application or the interpretation of the Regulations should be addressed to the president of the jury and submitted by the interested parties in writing to the DRH Services or sent to the email address [email protected] until April 23. 

Nota de Imprensa
April 13, 2026
António Ventura points out that food exports exceeded €445 million in 2025
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, emphasised today that the Region exceeded €445 million in food exports in 2025, “the highest figure over the last ten years.” “This represents an increase not only in volume but, above all, in the market value of these products. We hope to continue growing. This is a good indicator,” he said, speaking after visiting the Azorean companies present at SAGAL 2026 – "Flavours of Portugal" Export Fair, which runs until Wednesday at the Lisbon Exhibition and Congress Centre  (FIL). “Rather than simply promoting products on billboards or in magazines,” the government official defended that the Lisbon event aims to strengthen “the connection between those who want to buy and those who want to sell.” “One of the goals of our public policy for Agriculture is to produce food for the domestic market and for export,” stressed the Regional Secretary, who also oversees the Azores Brand. “The excellence, authenticity and competitiveness of Azorean products” were also highlighted by António Ventura. SAGAL has established itself as one of the leading business platforms exclusively dedicated to the international promotion of the Portuguese food sector. This year’s edition brings together around 400 national exhibitors and over 1,000 international buyers from demanding global markets such as the United States, Canada, China, Japan, Singapore and Brazil, as well as various European countries and Portuguese-speaking African countries.  With exhibitor satisfaction levels rising over the last four years, the Azorean Government is investing in this strictly professional event to expand the presence of the archipelago’s products in new markets, create and consolidate distribution channels, and boost the regional business sector. The scale of this export drive is evident in the performance of the Azores Brand, which now includes 9,000 certified products, with 95% originating from the food sector. The Azores are represented at SAGAL 2026 by 25 companies from several islands, showcasing the diversity and authenticity of regional production to importers from five continents.  The Azores delegation includes the following brands: Azores Farm, Azorfisk, AzorGhee, Bensaude Distribuição, Boa Fruta, Celeiro da Terra, Conseran, Conservas Santa Catarina, Fábrica de Licores Mulher de Capote, Fortunna Azores, Gorreana, Insulac, LactAçores, Lima & Quental, Materramenta, Mel do Atlântico, Milhafre dos Açores, Moaçor, Prolacto Azores, Promineral, Quinta das Três Cruzes, Quintal dos Açores, Sicosta, Sociedade Corretora and Yoçor.

Nota de Imprensa
April 13, 2026
Application period for allocation of 144 serviced plots extended until April 24
The Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment, through the Regional Directorate for Housing, announced that the period for submitting applications for the allocation, via public tender, of 144 serviced plots for housing construction has been extended until April 24.  Applications must be submitted pursuant to the terms specified in the Notice published in the Official Journal and available for consultation on the Regional Directorate for Housing (DRH) website at https://portal.azores.gov.pt/web/drh/concursos-cedencia-lotes-habitacao, where the application form is also available.  Interested parties may submit their duly completed application until April 24, inclusive, and deliver them in one of the following formats: DRH Services, located at Rua Dr. João Francisco de Sousa, no. 30, 9500-187 Ponta Delgada, on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.; RIAC - Integrated Citizen Support Network Offices; Registered post with acknowledgement of receipt to the Regional Housing Directorate, located at Rua Dr. João Francisco de Sousa, n.º 30, 9500-187 Ponta Delgada; DRH email address - [email protected]. Beneficiaries of the plots will pay between 5% and 45% of the plot price, depending on their income. They may also benefit, cumulatively, from a non-repayable grant of up to €5,000 towards the cost of architectural designs and specialist services, as well as support for self-build projects of up to €75,000, depending on the household composition and income, and the type of housing.  These 144 plots, including 114 on the island of São Miguel, 14 on the island of Flores, 10 on the island of São Jorge and six on the island of Santa Maria, are intended for the construction of permanent housing. Plots available on the island of São Miguel 6 plots in the Topo housing development, town of Nordeste, municipality of Nordeste; 4 plots in the Santana housing development, parish of Santana, municipality of Nordeste; 3 plots in the Milagres housing development, parish of Arrifes, municipality of Ponta Delgada; 36 plots in the Rosário housing development, town of Capelas, municipality of Ponta Delgada; 31 plots in the Biscoito housing development, parish of Feteiras, municipality of Ponta Delgada; 17 plots in the São Vicente Ferreira II housing development, parish of São Vicente Ferreira, municipality of Ponta Delgada; 2 plots in the Rua do Jogo housing development, parish of Ribeirinha, municipality of Ribeira Grande; 6 plots in the Lomba da Igreja housing development, parish of Ponta Garça, municipality of Vila Franca do Campo; 9 plots in the Galega housing development, parish of Ribeira das Tainhas, municipality of Vila Franca do Campo. Plots available on the island of Flores 14 plots in the Terça housing development, parish of Santa Cruz, municipality of Santa Cruz das Flores. Plots for sale on the island of Santa Maria  2 plots in the Outeiro housing development, parish of São Pedro, municipality of Vila do Porto; 4 plots in the Cruz Teixeira housing development, Vila do Porto, municipality of Vila do Porto. Plots available on the island of São Jorge 10 plots in the Casteletes housing development, parish of Urzelina, municipality of Velas.

Nota de Imprensa
April 13, 2026
Investment plans by Azorean companies exceed €1 billion
The Azores’ economy is showing clear signs of vitality, resilience and confidence. The strong uptake of various incentive schemes by regional companies demonstrates that the Azorean business community is active, investing, innovating and believing in the Region’s future. Figures speak for themselves. Under the Construir 2030 programme, applications were submitted representing €748.3 million in investment. Under the IFIC programme, the volume of investment applied for exceeds €252 million. In addition to this is the digital transition component, amounting to €33 million, bringing the total intended investment by Azorean companies to over €1 billion. These results confirm that the regional economy is growing and that Azorean entrepreneurs have been able to reinvent themselves, adapt and make the most of the tools made available to them. This is also a clear sign that the Regional Government of the Azores has successfully designed and implemented effective incentive schemes. With a strategy and measures tailored to the Region’s specific circumstances, companies are responding, investment is growing, and the Azores are firmly following a path of growth and confidence.

Nota de Imprensa
April 13, 2026
António Ventura highlights historic milestone in Azorean wine production, with production exceeding 1,000 tonnes
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, noted that the Azorean wine sector is currently experiencing a period of “strong dynamics and regenerative entrepreneurship.” The remarks were made during the opening session of the Atlantic Terroir Expo 2026, which took place this weekend at the Multisectoral Park on Terceira Island. For the government official, the sector has established itself as one of the most important in regional agricultural production: “Azorean wine production now plays a decisive role in the economic and social regeneration of the islands, supported by historic results and an increasingly entrepreneurial ecosystem,” he emphasised. 2025 set a record for the last two decades, with grape production reaching 1,048 tonnes in the Region.  The island of Pico consolidated its leading position, accounting for 92% of regional production (956 tonnes), followed by the island of Terceira (36 tonnes), which continues its growth trend. This vigour in the sector is also reflected in the number of economic operators and commercial references in the market. In 2025, the Azores Vine and Wine Institute (IVV Açores) reached a record of 35 registered producers, a figure that remains solid in 2026, with a new high expected by the end of the year. In terms of consumption and visibility, the market currently stands, based on data up to April 1, 2026, at 115 brands and 179 commercial references, far exceeding the all-time high recorded in the previous year. In the context of plant health innovation and technical production support, the Regional Secretary announced that the first 3,700 grapevine plants of the Verdelho, Terrantês do Pico and Arinto dos Açores varieties are now available for immediate distribution to wine producers, following a project developed in partnership with the Azores Biotechnology Centre. At the same time, António Ventura revealed the launch of a new line of research focused on the certification of rootstocks for traditional grape varieties, a measure aimed at reinforcing the Government’s commitment to sustainability and the protection of the archipelago’s unique wine production heritage. As regards investment and the expansion of the cultivation area, the government official noted that applications for new planting rights are open until April 15, for a quota of 17 hectares allocated to the Region. Financial support for the sector will be bolstered with the reopening of the VITIS programme in June, which has already received 19 applications in the first phase of this year, covering more than six hectares across several islands. In addition, producers can apply to PEPAC until the end of June, with support rates of up to 80% for investments in modernising the sector. António Ventura concluded by reiterating that the vitality of the figures presented, combined with the ongoing commitment to science and innovation, confirms that Azorean viticulture is on the right track towards an increasingly competitive future. In his view, this investment cycle demonstrates that the sector is prepared for the challenges of external markets, whilst always maintaining the quality and authenticity that define Azorean wines.