José Manuel Bolieiro highlights importance of empowering local authorities and local elected representatives - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, presided over the closing session of the conference “The Architecture of Local Government.” The event was organised by the National Association of Municipal Assemblies and held at the University of the Azores in Ponta Delgada last Friday.

The head of the Azorean Government praised the fundamental role of local government in Portuguese democracy, emphasising the importance of parishes and municipalities, and their decision-making bodies, namely municipal assemblies.

The President of the Government considered that reflection on the architecture of local government is particularly pertinent, advocating a critical and constructive analysis of the various dimensions structuring this level of governance.

José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the need to continue improving the “framework of powers and responsibilities of local authorities,” and the role of decision-making bodies. He also emphasised the importance of a local finance system to ensure a fairer distribution of national wealth among decentralised authorities.

In this context, he emphasised the need to ensure positive differentiation for local authorities on the islands and in the Autonomous Regions, acknowledging the specific characteristics and unique challenges of outermost regions.

The President of the Regional Government also highlighted the importance of enhancing the status of local elected representatives, considering that mayors play an irreplaceable role in maintaining close ties with the local population.

“In fact, local mayors are advocates for the people, whether in their parish or municipality, maintaining very direct contact with residents and their concerns,” he stated.

In this regard, José Manuel Bolieir defended a reformist approach to the status of local elected representatives, an area he believes has been undervalued over recent years.

Another topic addressed concerned the mapping of local government in Portugal. The President of the Regional Government stated that “any discussion on this matter must consider the identity of the regions and their ability to provide essential services to the population, particularly in the most remote areas, which face greater challenges in retaining residents and attracting talent.”

José Manuel Bolieiro also shared some of the experiences acquired throughout his career in local government, emphasising the importance of proximity, democratic participation and the promotion of local government as fundamental pillars of territorial development and social cohesion.

The closing session was also attended by the Secretary of State for Local Government and Spatial Planning, Silvério Regalado, and the President of the National Association of Municipal Assemblies, Fernando Pereira, who were part of the conference’s closing panel.