Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro honoured with the Velas Municipality Golden Key
José Manuel Bolieiro honoured with the Velas Municipality Golden Key
Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
2nd edition of "Associations Talks" on April 30 in Ribeira Grande
2nd edition of "Associations Talks" on April 30 in Ribeira Grande
Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional
Artur Lima advocates greater European concern for connectivity at regional level, and between the Azores and Europe
Artur Lima advocates greater European concern for connectivity at regional level, and between the Azores and Europe
Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social
Mónica Seidi visited Kavivo Residential Home in Ribeira Grande
Mónica Seidi visited Kavivo Residential Home in Ribeira Grande
Nota de Imprensa
April 24, 2025 José Manuel Bolieiro honoured with the Velas Municipality Golden Key The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, was awarded the Golden Key of the Municipality of Velas this Wednesday, April 23, at a ceremony that marked the municipal holiday in honour of São Jorge, the municipality's patron saint. The award was presented by the Mayor, Luís Silveira, as a way of distinguishing José Manuel Bolieiro's presence, commitment and solidarity during the difficult times experienced during the seismovolcanic crisis that affected the island of São Jorge in 2022. The head of the Azorean Government thanked the people for the honour and offered them words of appreciation "I receive this key as a symbol of trust but also as a tribute to the resilience of a people who have faced uncertainty with courage, unity and a spirit of solidarity," he said. The President of the Government took the opportunity to highlight the work carried out by the municipality, especially during the most critical days of the seismic crisis, praising Luís Silveira's leadership. "It was with serenity, firmness and vision that he ensured the mobilisation of the necessary resources and made sure that the sense of responsibility towards his land and its people was never lost," he recalled. José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised the fundamental role of the Armed Forces and the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, whose joint action was, in his words, "a true example of public service, proximity and efficiency." The solemn session took place at the Main Hall of the Town Hall and was attended by the Minister of National Defence, Nuno Melo, who presided over the ceremony: "His coming to São Jorge is a clear sign that the Azores count and that the local population is an active and valued part of the national whole," José Manuel Bolieiro stated, praising the minister's institutional sensitivity. During the event, several commendations were also bestowed, including Silver Medals to the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Azores Operational Command and Natália Maria Barroso da Rocha Lopes, and the Gold Medal to António José Bettencourt da Silveira. Also present were the Chief of General Staff of the Portuguese Armed Forces, General José Nunes da Fonseca, the Vice-President of the Regional Legislative Assembly, Joaquim Machado, and the Operational Commander of the Azores, Lieutenant-General César Paulo da Silva Rodrigues.
April 24, 2025 José Manuel Bolieiro honoured with the Velas Municipality Golden Key The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, was awarded the Golden Key of the Municipality of Velas this Wednesday, April 23, at a ceremony that marked the municipal holiday in honour of São Jorge, the municipality's patron saint. The award was presented by the Mayor, Luís Silveira, as a way of distinguishing José Manuel Bolieiro's presence, commitment and solidarity during the difficult times experienced during the seismovolcanic crisis that affected the island of São Jorge in 2022. The head of the Azorean Government thanked the people for the honour and offered them words of appreciation "I receive this key as a symbol of trust but also as a tribute to the resilience of a people who have faced uncertainty with courage, unity and a spirit of solidarity," he said. The President of the Government took the opportunity to highlight the work carried out by the municipality, especially during the most critical days of the seismic crisis, praising Luís Silveira's leadership. "It was with serenity, firmness and vision that he ensured the mobilisation of the necessary resources and made sure that the sense of responsibility towards his land and its people was never lost," he recalled. José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised the fundamental role of the Armed Forces and the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, whose joint action was, in his words, "a true example of public service, proximity and efficiency." The solemn session took place at the Main Hall of the Town Hall and was attended by the Minister of National Defence, Nuno Melo, who presided over the ceremony: "His coming to São Jorge is a clear sign that the Azores count and that the local population is an active and valued part of the national whole," José Manuel Bolieiro stated, praising the minister's institutional sensitivity. During the event, several commendations were also bestowed, including Silver Medals to the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Azores Operational Command and Natália Maria Barroso da Rocha Lopes, and the Gold Medal to António José Bettencourt da Silveira. Also present were the Chief of General Staff of the Portuguese Armed Forces, General José Nunes da Fonseca, the Vice-President of the Regional Legislative Assembly, Joaquim Machado, and the Operational Commander of the Azores, Lieutenant-General César Paulo da Silva Rodrigues.
Nota de Imprensa
April 24, 2025 2nd edition of "Associations Talks" on April 30 in Ribeira Grande The Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment, through the Regional Directorate for Youth, will be marking Youth Associations Day on Wednesday, April 30, with the second edition of "Associations Talks." The meeting will take place at Arquipélago Contemporary Arts Centre in Ribeira Grande, São Miguel, starting at 6 p.m., and will bring together young people and leaders of youth associations throughout the Region. The opening session will be chaired by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, followed by the presentation "Associations: From Personal Belief to Social Mission" by Rita Saias, former President of the National Youth Council. The importance of associations in terms of active citizenship and the promotion of the common good will be discussed at the round table "Associations in Youth." It will include the participation of Hugo Medeiros, from the Scout Association of Portugal (AEP); Mariana Pedro, from the Portuguese Association of Guides (AGP); José Carlos Pimentel, from the National Scouts Corps (CNE); Micaela Pimentel, from ICHTUS - Porto Judeu Youth Association; and Lizandra Silva, from AJIFA, Faial Island Youth Association. The session will be moderated by journalist Sara Oliveira. This session to celebrate Youth Associations Day will also include cultural moments, namely performances by the 9 Circos Association and the VengaGirls dance group. Youth Associations Day "has been celebrated since 2002 and aims to highlight the importance of associations as a model of participatory citizenship and a vehicle for social learning, emphasising the role of young people in promoting democratic values, whilst recognising and promoting the activity of the youth associations. Additionally, it encourages young people to have a taste for civic intervention, and fosters the values and skills acquired in activities of associations," says the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ). The first edition of "Associations Talks," organised by the Regional Government, took place in 2024 at the Coliseu Micaelense in Ponta Delgada.
April 24, 2025 2nd edition of "Associations Talks" on April 30 in Ribeira Grande The Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment, through the Regional Directorate for Youth, will be marking Youth Associations Day on Wednesday, April 30, with the second edition of "Associations Talks." The meeting will take place at Arquipélago Contemporary Arts Centre in Ribeira Grande, São Miguel, starting at 6 p.m., and will bring together young people and leaders of youth associations throughout the Region. The opening session will be chaired by the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, followed by the presentation "Associations: From Personal Belief to Social Mission" by Rita Saias, former President of the National Youth Council. The importance of associations in terms of active citizenship and the promotion of the common good will be discussed at the round table "Associations in Youth." It will include the participation of Hugo Medeiros, from the Scout Association of Portugal (AEP); Mariana Pedro, from the Portuguese Association of Guides (AGP); José Carlos Pimentel, from the National Scouts Corps (CNE); Micaela Pimentel, from ICHTUS - Porto Judeu Youth Association; and Lizandra Silva, from AJIFA, Faial Island Youth Association. The session will be moderated by journalist Sara Oliveira. This session to celebrate Youth Associations Day will also include cultural moments, namely performances by the 9 Circos Association and the VengaGirls dance group. Youth Associations Day "has been celebrated since 2002 and aims to highlight the importance of associations as a model of participatory citizenship and a vehicle for social learning, emphasising the role of young people in promoting democratic values, whilst recognising and promoting the activity of the youth associations. Additionally, it encourages young people to have a taste for civic intervention, and fosters the values and skills acquired in activities of associations," says the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ). The first edition of "Associations Talks," organised by the Regional Government, took place in 2024 at the Coliseu Micaelense in Ponta Delgada.
Nota de Imprensa
April 24, 2025 Artur Lima advocates greater European concern for connectivity at regional level, and between the Azores and Europe The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, participated in the General Assembly of the Islands Commission of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR), which took place between Wednesday and today on the island of La Palma, Canary Islands. The Vice-President of the Regional Government warned of the "adversities" facing the European Union's peripheral and outermost regions, "some of which are poorly understood, in addition to the current situation," during a round table discussion on the economic sustainability of European islands. Faced with "a changing geopolitical framework" and at a time when amendments to the Cohesion Policy are expected, the next Multiannual Financial Framework is being prepared as well as a new Community strategy for the Outermost Regions, it is essential to ensure that "we continue to have a credible and active voice in the European Union's decision-making process," defended Artur Lima. The Vice-President of the Government began by presenting the "model of sustainable economic, social, territorial and environmental development" applied in the Region. This model is also based "on Science, whose structuring and funding have made the Azores an oceanographic research hub." This "Atlantic potential is acknowledged by European institutions," he recalled, mentioning, as an example, the approval of the European Deep Sea Observatory in the Azores by the European Parliament. "The sea also poses well-known challenges for the islands," stated Artur Lima during the session dedicated to current challenges in connectivity. In the Azores, "it is necessary to consider external and internal transport, both for people and goods, and the most efficient way to develop it." This reality can have an impact on the Region's "attractiveness and competitiveness," while also entailing "considerable investments," he continued. As such, the transport sector in the Azores "must be given due consideration at national and European level," defended the Vice-President of the Government. "I am talking about very specific measures of distance and time. I am talking about costs that weigh. This is a question of European cohesion, justice and fairness," he concluded. Regarding digital connectivity, Artur Lima stated that "this is a priority area," as it will allow "access to the global digital services market." It will also "attract high technological value investments and innovation to the centre of the Atlantic." However, the strategy underway in the Region requires "an up-to-date and resilient submarine cable network," he warned. The Vice-President of the Government pointed out that "the Azores are Europe's western border" and this is an issue that now also arises "from a security standpoint." For this reason, "they want to be digitally cohesive, along with the entire European Union." The General Assembly marked the end of the Azores' term of office as the chair of the CPMR Islands Commission. The region of Corsica will take over the new term. The Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions congregates more than 150 regions that are part of Europe's maritime basin or peripheral maritime areas, representing more than 200 million people.
April 24, 2025 Artur Lima advocates greater European concern for connectivity at regional level, and between the Azores and Europe The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, participated in the General Assembly of the Islands Commission of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR), which took place between Wednesday and today on the island of La Palma, Canary Islands. The Vice-President of the Regional Government warned of the "adversities" facing the European Union's peripheral and outermost regions, "some of which are poorly understood, in addition to the current situation," during a round table discussion on the economic sustainability of European islands. Faced with "a changing geopolitical framework" and at a time when amendments to the Cohesion Policy are expected, the next Multiannual Financial Framework is being prepared as well as a new Community strategy for the Outermost Regions, it is essential to ensure that "we continue to have a credible and active voice in the European Union's decision-making process," defended Artur Lima. The Vice-President of the Government began by presenting the "model of sustainable economic, social, territorial and environmental development" applied in the Region. This model is also based "on Science, whose structuring and funding have made the Azores an oceanographic research hub." This "Atlantic potential is acknowledged by European institutions," he recalled, mentioning, as an example, the approval of the European Deep Sea Observatory in the Azores by the European Parliament. "The sea also poses well-known challenges for the islands," stated Artur Lima during the session dedicated to current challenges in connectivity. In the Azores, "it is necessary to consider external and internal transport, both for people and goods, and the most efficient way to develop it." This reality can have an impact on the Region's "attractiveness and competitiveness," while also entailing "considerable investments," he continued. As such, the transport sector in the Azores "must be given due consideration at national and European level," defended the Vice-President of the Government. "I am talking about very specific measures of distance and time. I am talking about costs that weigh. This is a question of European cohesion, justice and fairness," he concluded. Regarding digital connectivity, Artur Lima stated that "this is a priority area," as it will allow "access to the global digital services market." It will also "attract high technological value investments and innovation to the centre of the Atlantic." However, the strategy underway in the Region requires "an up-to-date and resilient submarine cable network," he warned. The Vice-President of the Government pointed out that "the Azores are Europe's western border" and this is an issue that now also arises "from a security standpoint." For this reason, "they want to be digitally cohesive, along with the entire European Union." The General Assembly marked the end of the Azores' term of office as the chair of the CPMR Islands Commission. The region of Corsica will take over the new term. The Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions congregates more than 150 regions that are part of Europe's maritime basin or peripheral maritime areas, representing more than 200 million people.
Nota de Imprensa
April 24, 2025 Mónica Seidi visited Kavivo Residential Home in Ribeira Grande The Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, visited on Wednesday the construction site of the Kavivo Residential Home in the parish of Maia, municipality of Ribeira Grande. The residential home to be created is the result of the refurbishment and expansion of the institution's building, which will be now used for this purpose, with a capacity for 20 users. This two-floor space will provide the necessary facilities to guarantee an improved quality of life for its residents. The investment, which includes the project, works contract, supervision, equipment purchases and other expenses, falls within the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) and amounts to more than three million Euros. The Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Divino Espírito Santo da Maia, formerly known as Irmandade do Hospital da Maia, is a private social solidarity institution founded on October 27, 1919. The institution is located in the eastern part of the municipality of Ribeira Grande. The institution is headed by Laudalino Rodrigues. Although the headquarters are located in the parish of Maia, its services also cover the parishes of Porto Formoso, São Brás, Lomba da Maia, Fenais da Ajuda and Lomba de São Pedro. As for social responses, the Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Divino Espírito Santo da Maia works with children and young people, the elderly, people with disabilities and the community in general. It has already signed 10 Cooperation-Value Client contracts with the Institute for Social Security.
April 24, 2025 Mónica Seidi visited Kavivo Residential Home in Ribeira Grande The Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, visited on Wednesday the construction site of the Kavivo Residential Home in the parish of Maia, municipality of Ribeira Grande. The residential home to be created is the result of the refurbishment and expansion of the institution's building, which will be now used for this purpose, with a capacity for 20 users. This two-floor space will provide the necessary facilities to guarantee an improved quality of life for its residents. The investment, which includes the project, works contract, supervision, equipment purchases and other expenses, falls within the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) and amounts to more than three million Euros. The Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Divino Espírito Santo da Maia, formerly known as Irmandade do Hospital da Maia, is a private social solidarity institution founded on October 27, 1919. The institution is located in the eastern part of the municipality of Ribeira Grande. The institution is headed by Laudalino Rodrigues. Although the headquarters are located in the parish of Maia, its services also cover the parishes of Porto Formoso, São Brás, Lomba da Maia, Fenais da Ajuda and Lomba de São Pedro. As for social responses, the Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Divino Espírito Santo da Maia works with children and young people, the elderly, people with disabilities and the community in general. It has already signed 10 Cooperation-Value Client contracts with the Institute for Social Security.
Nota de Imprensa
April 24, 2025 António Ventura recalls importance of maize for Azorean agricultural sector The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, is marking International Maize Day today by highlighting the importance of this crop in the sustainability and competitiveness of the Azorean agricultural sector. "In the Azores, fodder maize plays a strategic role as the main source of silage - essential food for the cattle diet, especially in the dairy sector, which continues to be one of the pillars of the regional agricultural economy. Growing maize for silage is fundamental to guaranteeing the animal food self-sufficiency, especially during periods when pasture is scarce," he stressed. In the last four years, the area of maize for silage in the Autonomous Region of the Azores has increased by about 2,000 hectares, reflecting the right public policies and a strategic commitment to strengthening farms' productive capacity. This growth comes as a result of specific measures, such as support for maize seed, the end of cuts in Community support and the elimination of apportionments, as proposed by the Azores Agricultural Federation and implemented by the Regional Government. This investment has borne fruit and will continue to deserve our commitment," stated the Regional Secretary. Despite the lesser importance of grain maize production in today's agriculture, it retains a symbolic and historical value, associated with ancient subsistence systems and cultural traditions that persist today in several parishes, namely through the preservation of traditional seeds and ethnographic recognition. On this day, the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food reiterates its commitment to Azorean farmers, promoting a modern, resilient and sustainable agricultural sector, where maize - especially as fodder - continues to be a central element of food self-sufficiency and the Azores' productive identity.
April 24, 2025 António Ventura recalls importance of maize for Azorean agricultural sector The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, is marking International Maize Day today by highlighting the importance of this crop in the sustainability and competitiveness of the Azorean agricultural sector. "In the Azores, fodder maize plays a strategic role as the main source of silage - essential food for the cattle diet, especially in the dairy sector, which continues to be one of the pillars of the regional agricultural economy. Growing maize for silage is fundamental to guaranteeing the animal food self-sufficiency, especially during periods when pasture is scarce," he stressed. In the last four years, the area of maize for silage in the Autonomous Region of the Azores has increased by about 2,000 hectares, reflecting the right public policies and a strategic commitment to strengthening farms' productive capacity. This growth comes as a result of specific measures, such as support for maize seed, the end of cuts in Community support and the elimination of apportionments, as proposed by the Azores Agricultural Federation and implemented by the Regional Government. This investment has borne fruit and will continue to deserve our commitment," stated the Regional Secretary. Despite the lesser importance of grain maize production in today's agriculture, it retains a symbolic and historical value, associated with ancient subsistence systems and cultural traditions that persist today in several parishes, namely through the preservation of traditional seeds and ethnographic recognition. On this day, the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food reiterates its commitment to Azorean farmers, promoting a modern, resilient and sustainable agricultural sector, where maize - especially as fodder - continues to be a central element of food self-sufficiency and the Azores' productive identity.
