"RTP/Açores is pillar of our Autonomy," highlights José Manuel Bolieiro - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, received the Board of Directors of RTP, led by Nicolau Santos, at an audience held today at the Sant'Ana Palace, pointing out that this television station is a "pillar" of Regional Autonomy.

"RTP/Açores is an essential pillar of our Autonomy, ensuring the cohesion between the archipelago's nine islands and strengthening ties with our diaspora. Its role is irreplaceable in promoting the regional and cultural identity of the Azores," stressed the President of the Government, who was accompanied at the hearing by the Regional Secretary responsible for media affairs, Paulo Estêvão.

"The Regional Government is committed to ensuring that, within the financial resources available, there are conditions to guarantee the continuity and predictability of RTP/Açores' funding in a context of full transparency," continued José Manuel Bolieiro.

"We are aware that the funding of public media in Portugal is a State responsibility. However, this Government also believes that the Regional Autonomy must assume its share of this responsibility," said the President of the Government.

It should be noted that the Council of the Government recently approved financial support amounting to 200 thousand Euros for RTP with a view to improving the technical conditions of the correspondents located on the islands with local offices. The board of directors welcomed this measure.

Furthermore, the Regional Government presented the "Plan for Azorean Media" this week. Although focused on supporting the private sector, it includes an axis for training journalists - in collaboration with CENJOR - which will be open to journalists from public organisations, namely RTP/Açores, Antena1/Açores and the Lusa news agency.