José Manuel Bolieiro honoured with the Velas Municipality Golden Key - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, was awarded the Golden Key of the Municipality of Velas this Wednesday, April 23, at a ceremony that marked the municipal holiday in honour of São Jorge, the municipality's patron saint.

The award was presented by the Mayor, Luís Silveira, as a way of distinguishing José Manuel Bolieiro's presence, commitment and solidarity during the difficult times experienced during the seismovolcanic crisis that affected the island of São Jorge in 2022.

The head of the Azorean Government thanked the people for the honour and offered them words of appreciation 

"I receive this key as a symbol of trust but also as a tribute to the resilience of a people who have faced uncertainty with courage, unity and a spirit of solidarity," he said.

The President of the Government took the opportunity to highlight the work carried out by the municipality, especially during the most critical days of the seismic crisis, praising Luís Silveira's leadership.

"It was with serenity, firmness and vision that he ensured the mobilisation of the necessary resources and made sure that the sense of responsibility towards his land and its people was never lost," he recalled.

José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised the fundamental role of the Armed Forces and the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, whose joint action was, in his words, "a true example of public service, proximity and efficiency."

The solemn session took place at the Main Hall of the Town Hall and was attended by the Minister of National Defence, Nuno Melo, who presided over the ceremony: "His coming to São Jorge is a clear sign that the Azores count and that the local population is an active and valued part of the national whole," José Manuel Bolieiro stated, praising the minister's institutional sensitivity.

During the event, several commendations were also bestowed, including Silver Medals to the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Azores Operational Command and Natália Maria Barroso da Rocha Lopes, and the Gold Medal to António José Bettencourt da Silveira.

Also present were the Chief of General Staff of the Portuguese Armed Forces, General José Nunes da Fonseca, the Vice-President of the Regional Legislative Assembly, Joaquim Machado, and the Operational Commander of the Azores, Lieutenant-General César Paulo da Silva Rodrigues.