Regional Government improves public services and invests in animal welfare on Graciosa Island - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, reiterated today the Government's commitment to the modernisation and efficiency of public services and the improvement of the meat industry and animal welfare, during the statutory visit to the island of Graciosa.

The head of the Azorean Government opened the new RIAC-RIAE Office in Santa Cruz da Graciosa. This project congregates the services of the Integrated Citizen Support Network (RIAC) and the Integrated Entrepreneur Support Network (RIAE). With this initiative, the Regional Government aims to guarantee a more swift and effective service for citizens and local entrepreneurs, providing a more personalised and efficient response.

With an investment exceeding 10 thousand Euros, the new infrastructure will allow annual savings of about 8,400 Euros, promoting greater efficiency in public resources management.

The project falls within the strategy to standardise and modernise public services in the Region. Another two RIAC-RIAE offices are due to open on the islands of Santa Maria and Faial.

"We want a local government that understands the specificities of each reality and that, apart from responding to needs, knows how to seize opportunities," José Manuel Bolieiro stated, stressing the importance of providing quality services for all Azoreans.

He also visited the local slaughterhouse, with a view to obtaining the Welfair International Animal Welfare Certificate.

Presently, eight of the slaughterhouses within the Regional Slaughter Network are already certified, reflecting the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food's commitment to improving good practices in the sector.

The Regional Government has been investing in the modernisation of slaughtering infrastructures, ensuring high standards of food safety and quality in Azorean meat. The "Welfare Quality" seal is an asset for the meat sector, bringing regional production into line with the demands of consumers who favour ethical and sustainable consumption. 

"This certificate guarantees the quality of what we have in the Azores, adding value to the production chain and reinforcing our brand image of animal welfare respect," stated José Manuel Bolieiro, who highlighted the joint work between the Government and local producers.

With these initiatives, the Regional Government reiterates its commitment to improving public services and enhancing the value of the meat sector, promoting the Region's sustainable and economic development.