Media and news Regional Government of the Azores - Communication

Nota de Imprensa
June 13, 2026
Nota à imprensa
Perante a nota de imprensa hoje divulgada pelo Grupo Parlamentar do Partido Socialista sobre alegados constrangimentos no Serviço de Imagiologia do Hospital do Santo Espírito da Ilha Terceira (HSEIT), importa repor os factos e esclarecer a população. Em primeiro lugar, importa referir que o equipamento de mamografia atualmente em utilização no HSEIT sofreu uma avaria ontem, não correspondendo à realidade qualquer tentativa de associar esta ocorrência a alegados atrasos acumulados de vários meses na realização de exames. Importa igualmente salientar que o atual mamógrafo é um equipamento com mais de 14 anos de utilização, encontrando-se tecnologicamente obsoleto e desadequado às exigências atuais de resposta clínica. Precisamente por essa razão, o Governo dos Açores, através da Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social, já desencadeou a sua substituição. Ao abrigo do Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência (PRR), o HSEIT adquiriu um novo mamógrafo, num investimento próximo dos 300 mil euros, estando prevista a sua instalação e entrada em funcionamento nas próximas duas semanas. Trata-se de um investimento estruturante que permitirá reforçar a capacidade de resposta do Serviço de Imagiologia e garantir melhores condições de diagnóstico e acompanhamento aos utentes. Relativamente aos recursos humanos, importa também esclarecer que já foi autorizada a abertura do procedimento concursal para recrutamento de mais uma médica especialista em Imagiologia, assegurando-se igualmente o recurso a prestadores de serviços sempre que necessário para garantir a continuidade assistencial. O Governo dos Açores reconhece a importância do acompanhamento atempado dos doentes oncológicos e mantém total prioridade na garantia de respostas adequadas e seguras. Contudo, considera fundamental que o debate sobre matérias tão sensíveis seja feito com rigor, responsabilidade e respeito pelos factos, evitando criar alarmismo desnecessário junto dos utentes e das suas famílias. O investimento realizado na renovação tecnológica e no reforço dos recursos humanos demonstra, precisamente, o compromisso do Governo dos Açores com a melhoria contínua dos cuidados de saúde prestados aos açorianos.

Nota de Imprensa
June 13, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro destaca importância de valorizar o poder local e os eleitos autárquicos
O Presidente do Governo dos Açores, José Manuel Bolieiro, presidiu na sexta-feira à sessão de encerramento da Conferência “Arquitetura do Poder Local”, promovida pela Associação Nacional de Assembleias Municipais e realizada na Universidade dos Açores, em Ponta Delgada. O líder do executivo açoriano enalteceu o papel fundamental do poder local na democracia portuguesa, sublinhando a relevância das freguesias, dos municípios e dos seus órgãos executivos e deliberativos, designadamente das assembleias municipais. O governante considerou que a reflexão em torno da arquitetura do poder local é particularmente pertinente, defendendo uma análise crítica e construtiva das várias dimensões que estruturam este nível de governação. José Manuel Bolieiro apontou a necessidade de continuar a aperfeiçoar o “quadro de competências e atribuições das autarquias”, bem como a relação entre os órgãos executivos e deliberativos, e defendeu igualmente a importância de um regime de finanças locais que permita uma distribuição mais justa da riqueza nacional pelos poderes descentralizados. Neste contexto, sublinhou a necessidade de assegurar uma diferenciação positiva para as autarquias insulares e das Regiões Autónomas, reconhecendo as especificidades e os desafios próprios dos territórios ultraperiféricos. O Presidente do Governo dos Açores destacou ainda a importância de dignificar e valorizar o estatuto do eleito local, considerando que os autarcas desempenham um papel de proximidade insubstituível junto das populações. “Na verdade, o autarca é um provedor do povo, na sua freguesia ou no seu município, num contacto muito direto com as pessoas e os seus problemas”, afirmou. José Manuel Bolieiro defendeu, por isso, uma visão reformista para o estatuto dos eleitos locais, área que considera ter sido, em vários momentos, desvalorizada ao longo dos últimos anos Outro dos aspetos abordados foi o mapeamento do poder local em Portugal. O Presidente do Governo dos Açores considerou que “qualquer reflexão sobre esta matéria deve ter em conta a identidade dos territórios e a sua capacidade de prestar serviços essenciais às populações, especialmente nas zonas mais periféricas e com maiores desafios de fixação de residentes e atração de talento”. José Manuel Bolieiro partilhou ainda algumas das experiências adquiridas ao longo do seu percurso autárquico, reforçando a importância da proximidade, da participação democrática e da valorização do poder local como pilares fundamentais do desenvolvimento territorial e da coesão social. A sessão de encerramento contou ainda com a participação do Secretário de Estado da Administração Local e Ordenamento do Território, Silvério Regalado, e do Presidente da Associação Nacional de Assembleias Municipais, Fernando Pereira, que integraram a mesa de encerramento da conferência.

Nota de Imprensa
June 13, 2026
Variante às Capelas é investimento estratégico que reforça mobilidade, coesão e desenvolvimento em São Miguel
A Variante às Capelas, uma das mais relevantes infraestruturas rodoviárias atualmente em desenvolvimento na ilha de São Miguel, representa um investimento superior a 45 milhões de euros, financiado maioritariamente pelo Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência (PRR). Este projeto, que tem sido permanente acompanhado pela Secretária Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas, afirma-se como um marco na modernização da rede viária regional e um exemplo concreto da aplicação de fundos europeus ao serviço do desenvolvimento estrutural dos Açores. Ainda hoje, Berta Cabral voltou a visitar a obra, que tem uma extensão aproximada de 8,3 quilómetros, acrescida de uma ligação adicional de 1,4 quilómetros à vila das Capelas, constituindo um dos maiores investimentos rodoviários recentes nos Açores, integrando projeto, construção e fiscalização numa única intervenção de elevada ambição técnica e estratégica. A Variante às Capelas foi concebida para ligar de forma mais eficiente a vertente norte à zona sul da ilha, garantindo uma conexão mais direta entre o noroeste de São Miguel e o principal centro urbano, Ponta Delgada. Esta infraestrutura permitirá reduzir significativamenteos tempos de deslocação, terá percursos mais seguros e diretos e diminuirá o tráfego em centros urbanos e freguesias. Ao evitar a travessia de várias localidades, a nova estrada contribui para uma mobilidade mais fluida e cómoda, com impacto direto na qualidade de vida da população. Paralelamente, melhora o acesso a serviços essenciais como hospital, aeroporto e porto, concentrados nas principais áreas urbanas da ilha. Berta Cabral defende que a melhoria das acessibilidades representa um fator determinante para o crescimento económico e adianta que a Variante às Capelas reforça a ligação entre zonas periféricas e Ponta Delgada, criando condições para dinamização do comércio local, estímulo ao turismo regional e facilitação da circulação de pessoas e bens. “Ao tornar o território mais acessível e eficiente do ponto de vista logístico, esta infraestrutura contribui para aumentar a competitividade da região e a sua atratividade para investimento”, afirma Berta Cabral. E prossegue: “Mais do que uma obra rodoviária, a Variante às Capelas assume-se como um instrumento de coesão social e territorial. Ao reduzir assimetrias entre diferentes zonas da ilha, promove maior integração entre comunidades, acesso mais equilibrado a serviços e oportunidades e reforço da equidade territorial”. “Este investimento insere-se numa visão estratégica de desenvolvimento harmonioso dos Açores, aproximando territórios e fortalecendo a unidade regional, cirando mais segurança e resiliência”, sustenta. A nova via foi projetada com padrões modernos de engenharia, permitindo redução de acidentes rodoviários, diminuição de congestionamentos e retirada de tráfego pesado dos centros populacionais. Adicionalmente, contempla soluções que ajudam a mitigar riscos naturais, nomeadamente problemas de inundação que têm afetado algumas freguesias do concelho de Ponta Delgada. Esta abordagem reforça a resiliência do território face a fenómenos naturais, uma prioridade num contexto insular particularmente exposto. A Variante às Capelas é amplamente reconhecida como uma obra-chave para o presente e futuro da ilha de São Miguel e simboliza um investimento público estruturante, o aproveitamento eficaz de fundos europeus do PRR e uma aposta clara na modernização das infraestruturas regionais. Este projeto traduz, assim, uma visão estratégica de longo prazo, aliando desenvolvimento económico, sustentabilidade e qualidade de vida, além do que constitui uma infraestrutura de impacto multidimensional, essencial para melhorar a mobilidade e acessibilidades, dinamizar a economia regional, reforçar a segurança rodoviária, promover a coesão territorial e mitigar riscos naturais.

Nota de Imprensa
June 12, 2026
José Manuel Bolieiro states that “support for agriculture protects a real and productive economy”
The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the opening ceremony of the Azores Agricultural Fair 2026, held at the Vinha Brava Multipurpose Hall on Terceira Island, highlighting agriculture as a strategic sector for economic development, social cohesion and the establishment of Azorean identity. Speaking before producers, entrepreneurs, association leaders and other stakeholders in the sector, José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised the importance of the fair as a meeting place for all players in the agricultural value chain, from production to processing and distribution. “This is an opportunity to bring the Azores together, congregating production, processing and distribution from a sector that has an important value chain for our economy and for what we do in the Azores,” he stated. The head of the Azorean Government defended that wealth generation remains an essential condition for economic and social development, stressing the role of work in building a more prosperous society. “It is not possible to distribute wealth without first creating it. It is not possible to enhance the quality of human life without work, whether on an individual or collective level. The potential of our natural environment is only fully achieved when combined with work, knowledge and the ability to innovate,” he emphasised. The head of the Azorean Government also praised the role of Azorean agricultural associations, considering them an “indispensable social partner” for the sector’s progress and the development of solutions addressing current challenges. “Agricultural associations have established themselves as a key social partner. In every association, on every island and across the entire archipelago, I commend the work ethic, the search for solutions and the pooling of expertise that matches the scale of our collective ambition,” he stressed. The President of the Regional Government pointed out that Azorean agriculture represents much more than just food production; it is an essential part of the Region’s culture and identity. “Agriculture is also part of Azorean culture and identity. No one would imagine visiting the Azores without encountering a thriving agricultural sector, capable of contributing to our islands’ food self-sufficiency and the preservation of our authenticity,” he said. In this context, he tied agriculture to the values of social cohesion, sustainability and authenticity that the Azores Brand seeks to promote both within and outside the Region. José Manuel Bolieiro also highlighted the sector’s ability to attract and retain talent, noting that Azorean agriculture is well-positioned to create future opportunities and generate value for residents and visitors alike. “We have quality, we have excellence, and we have the capacity to continue attracting people to the Azores, making the most of our resources and creating opportunities for new generations,” he stated. In his speech, the president of the Government highlighted the results achieved by the agricultural sector, emphasising that its importance to the regional economy is reflected in the growth of the Gross Value Added (GVA) of agriculture and agro-industries. As he noted, agricultural GVA reached its highest level in 30 years in 2024, standing at €354 million, demonstrating the sector’s growing importance to the Azorean economy. José Manuel Bolieiro also highlighted the joint efforts of the Regional Government and the Azores Agricultural Federation to ensure that Azorean farmers are treated equally in accessing national support measures. “We have managed to correct an unfair situation that was creating difficulties for Azorean farmers, who were being excluded from national support schemes. Today, our efforts to secure better terms have ensured that Azorean farmers are included in national support schemes for fertilisers and energy, which is entirely fair,” he emphasised. In the context of public policies for the sector, the President of the Regional Government reiterated the Government's commitment to ensuring balance throughout the food value chain, offsetting the additional costs arising from the archipelago’s geographical location whilst protecting consumers. “The main beneficiaries of these measures are consumers and the regional economy, ensuring that products reach Azorean consumers at affordable prices, without compromising the sustainability of production,” he stated. The head of the Azorean Government also highlighted investment in research, innovation and food safety, key areas for boosting the competitiveness and excellence of regional production. José Manuel Bolieiro also announced that applications have been open since June 1 for the conversion of dairy farms to beef production on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira and Graciosa, a measure aimed at diversifying agricultural activity and strengthening the sector’s resilience. It was also announced that applications to support the purchase of maize and sorghum seeds for the 2025 season would open in July, with a 30% increase in funding in response to the adverse weather conditions experienced throughout the year. This measure has contributed to the growth of regional forage maize production, with the Azores reaching a record area of 14,500 hectares dedicated to this crop by 2025, thereby strengthening self-sufficiency in animal feed and reducing dependence on imports. Regarding the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy (PEPAC), the President of the Regional Government highlighted the strong uptake amongst Azorean farmers towards the available investment programmes. The first application period, which ran from December 2025 to January 2026, saw €4 million in funding approved to support a total investment exceeding €5.1 million, covering projects in areas such as dairy and beef cattle farming, fruit growing, viticulture and horticulture. José Manuel Bolieiro also announced that applications will open in July, with €3 million in funding available to support the afforestation of agricultural land and the installation of windbreaks. “This is an opportunity to increase the forest area of the Azores, whilst promoting the environmental sustainability of farms and supporting producers during the early years of this investment,” he explained. Furthermore, the President of the Regional Government also defended the need to ensure that national support for the agricultural sector is effectively extended to the Region. “National aid must cover the entire national territory. We have been calling on the National Government to include the Azores in this support scheme. We are not creating an economy of dependency, but rather protecting a real, productive economy that generates wealth, employment and development for the Azores,” he concluded. Also present at the ceremony were the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, the President of the Azores Agricultural Federation, Jorge Rita, the President of the Terceira Island Agricultural Association, José Azevedo, the Deputy Mayor of Angra do Heroísmo, Guido Teles, and the Mayor of Praia da Vitória, Vânia Ferreira, amongst other figures linked to the Azorean agricultural sector.

Nota de Imprensa
June 12, 2026
Artur Lima highlights in Berlin Azores' role as geopolitical and economic driving force for Portugal's global presence
As part of the celebrations of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, held at the Portuguese Embassy in Berlin, the Vice-President of the Regional Government highlighted the strategic importance of the Azores for Portugal’s global standing. Speaking to an audience of over 200 people, comprising members of the Portuguese community in Germany, diplomats and entrepreneurs, Artur Lima emphasised that the archipelago transforms Portugal into a true maritime power and serves as an irreplaceable bridge between Europe and the Americas. “Celebrating Portugal without looking to the Atlantic would be to forget our very origins. Therefore, I have come to speak to you of how Portugal extends Europe out into the middle of the ocean: I have come to speak to you of the Azores,” stated Artur Lima. In this regard, he utterly rejected the perception of the islands as isolated: “The Azores have never been on the periphery of Portugal; they were, and remain, its Atlantic heart.” After highlighting the historical importance the Azores have had for Portugal, the focus shifted to the present and the future. “The Azores are now the research hub for deep-sea science, and we are positioning ourselves at the forefront of the European space sector. We are the ultimate living laboratory for marine biotechnology, underwater robotics and the sustainable exploitation of ocean resources, as well as a leading force in safeguarding marine biodiversity and environmental sustainability,” he emphasised. During his speech, the Vice-President of the Government launched a challenge to the entrepreneurs and investors present, inviting them to invest in the Azores. “Portugal’s future is shaped from here: looking towards the horizon, always with the ambition of those who know that the sea does not separate us, but rather unites us. I assure the entrepreneurs and investors here today that we are ready to welcome your vision, your investment and your boldness,” he stressed. At the invitation of the Portuguese Ambassador to Berlin, Madalena Fischer, the Autonomous Region of the Azores, represented by the Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, took part in the celebrations of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, alongside the Secretary of State for European Affairs, Inês Domingos. The event also included a display of Azorean handicrafts and products, promoted with the support and participation of Invest in Azores, Azores Brand, the Azores Tourism and Hospitality School, and VisitAzores.

Nota de Imprensa
June 11, 2026
“Drive Safe” campaign raised awareness among 200 drivers across six islands in the Azores
The road safety awareness campaign “Drive Safe,” which ran from June 2 to 8, covered six islands in the archipelago of the Azores, reaching around 200 drivers. Organised by the Public Security Police (PSP),  in collaboration with the Regional Sub-directorate for Land Transport, under the administration of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, the initiative took place on the islands of São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge, Graciosa, Faial and Flores. The activities were intended to promote responsible behaviour on the road, encouraging speed reduction and safe driving. The campaign was primarily intended to raise drivers’ awareness of the risks associated with speeding – one of the main causes of road accidents – and promote safer and defensive driving, encouraging compliance with speed limits. Reducing accidents on regional roads, raising awareness of the importance of safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and fostering a spirit of responsibility and prevention were other goals of this campaign, thereby contributing to safer roads in the Azores. Overall, the campaign reached 193 drivers, with 45 in São Miguel, 20 in Terceira, 15 in São Jorge, 10 in Graciosa, 48 in Faial and 55 in Flores. The “Drive Safe” campaign was well received by motorists, raising awareness of the importance of responsible and safe driving. This initiative is part of a series of measures aimed at promoting road safety in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, with a view to reducing the number of accidents and protecting lives.

Nota de Imprensa
June 10, 2026
Azores regarded as “strategic territory” during Portugal Day celebrations, says José Manuel Bolieiro
The President of the Regional Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, participated today in the ceremonies marking Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities Day, which were held in Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira Island. On the occasion, he highlighted the importance of the speeches delivered during the official session and the “recognition of the Azores’ significance.” The head of the Azorean Government welcomed the speeches delivered, believing that they reinforced the Azores’ standing in both the national and international contexts. “The speeches emphasised the importance of our Region and its strategic significance,” he noted. José Manuel Bolieiro also considered that the selection of the Azores to host this year’s celebrations “resonates deeply with the Azorean people,” considering it as a sign of recognition of the Region’s role in the Atlantic presence of Portugal. The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the archipelago’s geographical position and its global geopolitical relevance, defending that the Azores are instrumental in linking different continents and strategic areas. “We regard our identity as a people and a territory as one of peace, cosmopolitanism and connection with the Western world,” he said. José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised that the Region serves as a bridge linking three continents, strengthening relations with Europe, the Americas and Africa. It also plays a coordinating role in the Atlantic region. “This location on Terceira Island and in the Azores was a very good choice,” he declared, also expressing his gratitude for the President of the Republic’s decision to hold the June 10 celebrations there. The President of the Regional Government of the Azores highlighted that the official speeches confirmed the “growing recognition” of the Azores’ strategic importance, when the Region celebrates 50 years of political autonomy.

Nota de Imprensa
June 10, 2026
Apps for Good Açores Regional Meeting brought together young innovators at Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory
This week, the Ponta Delgada Regional Conservatory hosted the Regional Apps for Good  Açores Meeting, an initiative organised by the Regional Directorate for Education and Educational Administration (DREAE) as part of the implementation of the Apps for Good programme in schools across the Autonomous Region of the Azores. In the 2026 edition, 11 teams from seven schools on the islands of São Miguel, Pico and Terceira are participating. The projects presented covered social, environmental, and educational areas, demonstrating young Azoreans' ability to identify challenges and propose innovative technological solutions. Since the 2017/2018 academic year, this department has been developing the programme in partnership with CDI Portugal – Centre of Digital Inclusion, an NGO dedicated to social and digital inclusion and innovation, providing students with opportunities to develop digital, creative and entrepreneurial skills. Apps for Good challenged teams of students from middle to secondary school to design mobile apps that address social needs identified in their communities, within the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Throughout the school year, participants worked on a project methodology divided into five stages, supported by an online platform. The regional meetings are valuable opportunities to share and evaluate the projects developed, leading to the selection of the finalist teams that will represent the Region at the national event, usually held in September. Among the solutions in competition were the following projects: Zen Sénior, from Canto da Maia Basic Education School; Encontra PET, from Capelas Basic Education School; Caritas Share, É Canja!!, Healthy Gamers, Mind Bloom and Floresta da Esperança, from Rabo de Peixe Basic Education School; ECOKIDS, from Madalena Basic Education and Secondary School; Elite Fishing, from São Roque do Pico Basic Education and Secondary School; Gravidez Informada, from Tomás de Borba Basic Education and Secondary School; and TravelBuddy, from Jerónimo Emiliano de Andrade Secondary School. The awards for Basic Education School Finalist, Secondary School Finalist and the People’s Choice Award were presented during the ceremony.