José Manuel Bolieiro leads "pioneering" meeting with São Miguel Island Council - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, led today an innovative meeting with the São Miguel Island Council, chaired by Jorge Rita, in a crucial step to deepen institutional "dialogue" and "strategic planning" for the island.

This meeting marks a pioneering milestone, given that São Miguel is one of the three islands without a formal statutory visit, unlike the other six. This is the first of a series of meetings with the Boards of the Island Councils of São Miguel, Terceira and Faial, as defined by the Regional Government.

"We are opening a new approach to governance based on proximity and responsibility. This meeting represents a step forward in the commitment to democratic and structured dialogue between the government and the islands' representatives," stressed José Manuel Bolieiro.

During the session, a memorandum summarising the concerns and priorities of São Miguel Island was presented and discussed. The Government members present clarified topics such as transport (air, sea and land), the strategic importance of the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital (HDES), and the importance of the agrifood, maritime food, agriculture, fisheries, services and tourism sectors.

The head of the Azorean Government emphasised the importance of the issues raised in the memorandum, stressing the harmony between them and the Government's plan, particularly regarding the redevelopment of the Ponta Delgada Airport terminal. Expansion is scheduled for 2026, adding more landing gates and new services, along with commercial areas, resulting in a capacity increase of approximately 30%. Some interventions are already underway to improve passenger comfort, and the next ones will ensure greater operational efficiency.

"This is a moment of acknowledging the joint effort to find tangible solutions for the island's development. The careful consideration we have given to local priorities will be decisive for more effective governance decisions," he said.

The meeting also served to clarify the Regional Government's strategy regarding the HDES and the projects to improve port accessibility in Ponta Delgada, as well as the ongoing planning for the concession of land transport in São Miguel.

The Government thus reiterated its commitment to active listening, the importance of local government, and the sustainable and integrated development of the islands.