José Manuel Bolieiro highlights work carried out on Faial during meeting with Island Council’s Board - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

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.