Approval of the Decree-Law Project
The Permanent Commission of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira has decided to give a favorable opinion to a specific decree-law project. The president of the Madeiran parliament, José Manuel Rodrigues, mentioned that the commission proposed that the increase of 50 million euros from the Cohesion Fund for Madeira be transferred by March 31 of this year.
Support for Prison Guards’ Law Proposal
Additionally, Rodrigues noted that the deputies expressed their support, at the request of the Assembly of the Republic, for a legislative proposal from the Left Bloc (BE). This proposal aims to rectify inequalities in the supplemental pay for prison guards in the autonomous regions. The intention is for all prison guards working in Madeira and the Azores to receive a 15% island subsidy, regardless of their place of residence or whether they are on assignment.
Next Steps for the Permanent Commission
Rodrigues also pointed out that with the dissolution of the island’s parliament last Monday, it is now the responsibility of the Permanent Commission to issue opinions on the diplomas from the Assembly of the Republic and the Government of the Republic. Previously, this task was handled by the Specialized Commissions. The commission is scheduled to meet again on February 6 at 10:00 AM.
Concerns Over Electoral Law Changes
On another note, José Manuel Rodrigues expressed a desire for the changes to the electoral law of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira to be applicable to the upcoming early regional elections on March 23. He emphasized that failing to implement these changes would disappoint the expectations created among voters, particularly regarding the parity of candidate lists and the voting rights of Madeiran students. Many students are currently residing on the mainland and in the Azores.
Clarification from the National Elections Commission
The National Elections Commission (CNE) clarified on Tuesday that the alterations to the electoral law will not apply to the upcoming early regional legislative elections scheduled for March 23. This is due to the fact that the changes will only come into effect on that date, and the dissolution of the Regional Legislative Assembly was published in the Diário da República on Monday, producing immediate effects. Therefore, the law that was in force at the time of the dissolution of the regional parliament will remain applicable.
Increased Passenger Traffic at Madeira Airports
In related news, Madeira’s airports are expected to handle more than five million passengers in 2024, indicating a positive trend in tourism and travel to the region.