Regional Government reinforces Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade with new resources and regional investment in Civil Protection - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, delivered today new equipment to the Vila Franca do Campo Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, reinforcing the response capacity of this corporation and the regional strategy for enhancing Civil Protection.

"It is with a great sense of public responsibility, respect for your mission and recognition of your dedication that we today mark the reinforcement of resources and operational capabilities for this organisation," he said, addressing those present.

Three new essential pieces of equipment were presented: a heavy fire truck tanker worth €300,000, a self-command vehicle worth €43,000 and an emergency ambulance worth €73,000, which will be delivered in the first half of the year.

"This year, we are providing this corporation with three essential pieces of equipment, which will significantly strengthen your operational capacity," emphasised José Manuel Bolieiro.

These investments are part of the Regional Government's overall effort, which already exceeds €5.8 million allocated to the renewal of vehicles and ambulances throughout the archipelago. According to the President of the Government, this is "a solid strategy for modernising and strengthening Civil Protection on all islands."

Alongside these measures, the Government has reinforced the technical equipment of the fire brigades, notably with the acquisition of 70 defibrillator monitors, representing an investment of €800,000, and the delivery of Self-contained Breathing Apparatus worth €300,000, ensuring better safety conditions for firefighters.

"These investments are structural: they improve response capacity and protect the lives of those who protect lives," he said.

Professional recognition has also been a priority: the basic salary for firefighters in the Azores now stands at €1,014, about 10% higher than in Mainland Portugal. The new funding model for humanitarian associations will amount to €750,000 in 2026, 50% more than in 2025.

"The recognition of firefighters is not just empty words, it is a tangible, visible and sustained reality," José Manuel Bolieiro said, adding that this salary increase "is a commitment to the respectability of this profession and the fairness towards those who take risks for the common good."

The social benefits package exceeds half a million Euros, including support for after-school activities for firefighters' children starting this month. Last December, support amounting to €180,000 was paid to the operational staff, "a significant incentive for volunteering," he added.

In 2025, the Vila Franca do Campo fire brigade responded to 1,103 incidents, including 91% in the area of health, also playing an important role in the non-urgent transport of patients.

"This performance confirms the professionalism, dedication and absolutely central importance of this corporation to the municipality," stated the President of the Government.

Regarding the future, plans for a new fire station are currently under consideration. The preliminary version has been revised to ensure that operational requirements are met, and the next phase will involve cost estimates and assessment by the Government.

"This is a serious, progressive and evidence-based process, which will continue to be conducted in this manner," he assured.

During the ceremony, a photovoltaic panel solution was also presented, aimed at increasing the corporation's energy efficiency.

"It is a clear example of our commitment to sustainability and reduction of operating costs," stated José Manuel Bolieiro. The Medal of Distinguished Service and the Friend of the Firefighters Diploma were also awarded to José Manuel Santos and Glória Santos, former concessionaires of the firefighters' restaurant.

The President of the Government joined in the recognition, highlighting that the "dedication" and "spirit of collaboration of both represent the best of the Vila Franca do Campo community."

The ceremony was also attended by the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, the Mayor of Vila Franca do Campo, Graça Melo, the President of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, Rui Andrade, the President of the Vila Franca do Campo Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, Rui Melo, and the Commander of the Vila Franca do Campo Fire Brigade, Tiago Santos.