### Potential Legality Issues in Lisbon's City Council

Experts and the **National Association of Municipalities** (ANMP) have raised concerns that the Lisbon City Council may be operating **illegally since May**. This situation could lead to the **nullification of decisions** made during council meetings over the past six months.

The legal troubles began on **May 16**, when the **Cultural Councilor**, Diogo Moura (CDS), suspended his mandate. Following this, **Joana Oliveira Costa**, a fifth substitute candidate from the same party, took his place. However, for her to officially assume the position, all other CDS members ahead of her on the list were required to either suspend or resign from their mandates in writing.

In this case, **neither resignation nor suspension** took place, yet candidates in higher positions continued to participate as substitutes in council meetings. The Lisbon City Council has responded, asserting that there was **no irregularity**, claiming that those above on the list simply replaced other councilors.

Especialistas e ANMP consideram que substituição de vereadores em Lisboa aconteceu de forma irregular. Câmara faz outra interpretação e discorda.

Are Lisbon's City Councilors Acting Illegally? Experts Weigh In!

### Political Crisis in Madeira

The ongoing **political crises** in Madeira are turning into an endless saga. With **elections on the horizon**, stability once again lies in the hands of **Chega**. 

A historical **PSD/Madeira** member proclaimed, **"We are all in Chega's hands,"** summarizing the political future of the Autonomous Region after the opposition approved a **motion of censure** against Miguel Albuquerque's government.

### Preparing for New Elections

As the new political crisis unfolds, parties are gearing up for yet another electoral campaign. Many doubt that the results will differ from those of May. Both the **PSD** and **PS** are facing internal dissent, with some members advocating for leadership changes before the elections to resolve the political deadlock. Manuel António Correia, a social democrat, publicly urged the **President of the Republic** to allow time for internal reorganization before calling for elections. While criticisms within the **PS** are less vocal, dissatisfaction with Paulo Cafofo is evident.

### Chega's Dilemma

As the **Chega** party continues to push its agenda against corruption and the **Socialist Party**, they face a crucial decision. After causing the regional government's collapse, Chega must choose whether to support a new government led by Albuquerque—who is facing allegations of corruption—or a leftist coalition government. **"Chega will have to decide whether it stands with the right or the left,"** a regional deputy remarked.

### Elections Before Carnival?

Both Miguel Albuquerque and Paulo Cafofo expressed their desire for elections to occur as soon as possible. The scheduling of discussions with **Ireneu Barreto** just two days post-censure vote has been interpreted as a sign of a swift process. Political leaders believe that Barreto's quick action aligns with **Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa**, who is now positioned to call parties without delay. They are aiming for elections before **Carnival**, on February 16 or 23, which would necessitate a decision from the President before the year's end.

### Campaign Strategies

Albuquerque plans to campaign using the **2025 Regional Budget**, which was rejected by the opposition, arguing that the lack of good news for Madeirans results from opposition actions. He also highlights recent positive economic data, including **GDP growth** and increased employment, as favorable news for the outgoing government. The campaign strategy focuses on **"talking little about the PSD and much about governance results."**

In a repeat of previous elections, **Luís Montenegro** is unlikely to join the campaign. The Prime Minister, who recently accused Chega and PS of collusion in Madeira, is expected to communicate with Albuquerque shortly.

As sucessivas crises políticas na Madeira estão a tornar-se numa novela sem fim à vista. Com uma repetição de resultados à vista, a estabilidade fica de novo nas mãos do Chega.

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Chega's Rising Influence and Upcoming Elections

## Court Ruling Targets Admiral Gouveia e Melo
The ruling from the Central Administrative Court of the South (TCAS) directly implicates **Admiral Gouveia e Melo**, Chief of Staff of the Navy (CEMA), in the annulment of sanctions imposed on sailors who refused to board the NRP Mondego. The Navy attempted to distance Gouveia e Melo from the incident, but judges determined that he validated **"illegal acts"** in applying the now-overturned punishments.

The court's analysis centers on the fact that Gouveia e Melo, as CEMA, rejected hierarchical appeals from **13 sailors** regarding sanctions ranging from **10 to 90 days suspension** for insubordination. By denying these appeals in July of this year, the admiral confirmed the disciplinary actions against the sailors.

The court identified two main nullities in these sanctions: 
- Sailors were questioned without being informed of their rights.
- The commander of the Navy and War, **Rodrigues Teixeira**, participated as an instructor in the disciplinary process despite being part of the command chain involved in the events of **March 11, 2023**.

According to the ruling, Rodrigues Teixeira should have either declared himself unable to intervene or stated that he lacked knowledge of facts that could influence the disciplinary process. Failing to do so rendered all subsequent actions—including accusations and final reports—invalid under military discipline regulations.

## Navy's Response to the Ruling
Approximately two hours after the ruling was announced, the Navy issued a statement emphasizing that the punishments were not applied by Gouveia e Melo but by **Commander Chaves Ferreira**. However, the statement did not clarify that the sanctions were confirmed by the Chief of Staff through the rejection of the hierarchical appeals.

The Navy also stated that they plan to appeal the ruling, noting that the TCAS decision has not yet become final. They highlighted a history of favorable outcomes in cases against sailors who refused to board the NRP Mondego due to alleged lack of conditions.

## Defense of the Sailors
In statements to Observador, lawyer **Paulo Graça**, representing the sailors, argued that the responsibility for the sanctions lies with Gouveia e Melo, criticizing the Navy for what he termed a **“falsehood”** in their public response. He emphasized that the admiral confirmed the sanctions, thus assuming legal responsibility for them.

## The Incident That Shook the Portuguese Navy
In March 2023, the NRP Mondego did not carry out a mission to monitor a Russian ship near **Porto Santo Island** after several military personnel refused to board. The Navy reported the incident to the Military Judicial Police. Following the incident, Gouveia e Melo insisted on addressing the sailors directly, stating that the Navy **"cannot forget, ignore, or forgive acts of indiscipline"**.

He criticized the sailors for reporting issues with the ship to external entities, arguing that it compromised military confidentiality. In his rejection of the appeals, Gouveia e Melo reiterated the seriousness of the sailors' actions, claiming that such conduct negatively impacts the Navy's integrity and cohesion. 

*(Article updated at 22:40)*

Acórdão visa almirante em "atos ilegais" na aplicação dos castigos, numa altura em que Gouveia e Melo está de saída da Marinha para ficar livre para uma possível candidatura à Presidência da República

Admiral Gouveia e Melo Faces Legal Scrutiny for Sanctions Against NRP Mondego Sailors

## Discontent Among Educators

The **National Federation of Teachers (Fenprof)** is considering requesting an additional negotiation regarding the **salary increase** for cooperating teachers, which is expected to range between **€80 and €90 per month**. This comes after the **government approved a proposal** on Wednesday to grant this supplement to teachers supervising interns, despite ongoing negotiations on the matter. The decision has sparked protests from various **teacher unions**, who deem it a significant **disrespect** to the negotiation process.

The unions argue that moving forward with the decision while discussions are still pending undermines their bargaining rights and the integrity of the educational system. **Fenprof** expressed its disappointment, highlighting the need for respect and proper negotiation channels within the educational framework.

Sindicatos estão descontentes com o Governo por ter aprovado a proposta de suplemento aos docentes que acompanhem estagiários, sem a negociação ter terminado. “Um desrespeito”, diz a FNE.

Unraveled: Teachers' Unrest as Government Approves Controversial Pay Supplement

### Arrow Group Takes Charge of Algarve's Luxury Hospitality

The **Arrow Group**, via **Vilamoura World Holdings (VWH)**, is set to gain **exclusive control** over **Minor Vilamoura**, which operates a **5-star hotel** in the Algarve region, specifically in **Vilamoura**, under the renowned **Anantara Hotels & Resorts** brand.

The **Competition Authority** confirmed that on **December 16**, it received a notification regarding this company concentration, which pertains to VWH's **exclusive control** over **Minor Luxury Hotels Vilamoura, S.A.**.

VWH is a **Portuguese company** that is part of the **Arrow Group**. According to the Competition Authority, the group's activities in Portugal include managing **delinquent credits** and **real estate investments**, particularly through **Norfin** and **Whitestar**. They also operate **tourist accommodations** in the Algarve and Madeira, as well as **golf courses** in the Algarve and Lisbon. Additionally, they engage in the production and marketing of **ceramic flooring and coatings**.

Minor Vilamoura, on the other hand, is known for its **5-star hotel** in the Algarve, enhancing the region's luxury tourism appeal.

O Grupo Arrow, através da Vilamoura World Holdings (VWH) passaria a ter o controlo exclusivo da Minor Vilamoura que é detentora e operadora de um hotel de 5 estrelas na região do Algarve, em Vilamoura, que é explorado sob a marca Anantara Hotels & Resorts.

Exclusive Control of Algarve's 5-Star Hotel Transferred to Arrow Group

## Major Update to Scientific Career Statute Approved in Parliament

The **Portuguese Parliament** has approved a government proposal to update the **scientific career statute**, a long-standing demand that has been in the pipeline for **25 years**. The current statute has not seen any revisions since **1999**, and this new proposal will now proceed to discussions in the **Education and Science Committee** before its final implementation in **2025**.

In addition to the government's proposal, revisions from the **Socialist Party** and the **Left Bloc** were also approved, each presenting different approaches to the statute. The **scientific research career statute** has been under review since 2023, when the previous government initiated a framework for a new statute that was halted due to the resignation of the former Prime Minister.

The current proposal is built upon the previous framework left by the Socialist government. **Ana Paiva**, the Secretary of State for Science, emphasized that the intention is to **build upon existing foundations** rather than dismantle them. She noted that the existing statute is **outdated** and fails to meet the current needs of the national scientific system, advocating for the **empowerment of youth in science, innovation, and entrepreneurship**.

### Key Changes to the Statute

One significant change proposed is that scientists will now have the ability to manage **startups** or provide consultancy services stemming from their research. The government's plan indicates that the application of the scientific career rules will be **optional** for private institutions, allowing non-profit entities to bypass certain career progression and hiring criteria, which has raised concerns about **job security** and **performance evaluation**.

However, there is a safeguard: the application of the scientific career statute may be mandated by the **public funding project**, as stipulated by the **Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)**. The Socialist Party's proposal also supports optional application for private entities, while the Left Bloc insists on mandatory application.

The government, represented by **Fernando Alexandre**, believes that this new statute will address **job insecurity** and promote **stability** and **predictability** for PhD holders and their research lines. The new statute aims to replace a 25-year-old framework that has become obsolete, a promise reiterated by every government since the **Passos Coelho administration** (2011-2015).

### Future Prospects for Scientific Careers

In the coming two years, the scientific career could see a boost with the integration of **1,500 researchers** under the **FCT-Tenure program**, which financially supports the hiring of PhD holders in higher education and research centers for up to six years. This integration will be divided between teaching and scientific research careers. The first edition of this program concluded successfully with **1,104 positions** awarded, and an additional **400 positions** are expected in the second edition in **2025**.

Historically, the recruitment of scientists has relied heavily on research grants and temporary contracts funded by the FCT. In the recent parliamentary session, a proposal from the Socialist Party was also approved, urging the government to open competitions for hiring PhDs for the scientific career at the FCT, aiming to address the **disparities** in **salary and contractual conditions** for doctoral staff within the institution.

Actualização do diploma, em vigor há 25 anos, era reivindicação de cientistas e sindicatos há vários anos. Estatuto será agora discutido na especialidade antes de ser aplicado definitivamente.

Portugal's Scientific Career Statute Overhaul: A Game Changer for Researchers?

## Overview of Heat-Related Mortality in Alentejo
The **Alentejo region**, known for its warm climate, has been experiencing an alarming increase in heat-related mortality due to climate change. This study investigates historical patterns of heat-related deaths from **1980 to 2015** and projects future impacts through **2100**.

### Methods Employed
Using a **case time series design**, researchers analyzed the relationship between daily mortality rates and mean temperatures across Alentejo's four subregions. The analysis included data from **May to September** and took into account greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5).

### Key Findings
- **Minimum Mortality Temperature (MMT)**: The study identified an MMT of **19.0 °C**, noting that mortality risks increase significantly when temperatures exceed this threshold.
- **Exponential Increase in Risk**: At extreme temperatures, such as **36.6 °C**, the risk of mortality surged by **413%**.
- **Heatwave Impact**: The **2003 heatwave** alone accounted for over **5,296 deaths**, highlighting the severe impacts of extreme heat events.
- **Future Projections**: Without adaptive measures, heat-related mortality could rise by up to **15.88%** by 2100 under a no-mitigation scenario. However, implementing mitigation strategies could limit this increase to **6.61%**.

### Implications for Health Policy
The findings emphasize the urgent need for **protective health policies** to mitigate the risks associated with heat exposure and to safeguard vulnerable populations in the region. Continuous monitoring and adaptation strategies are critical as climate change intensifies.

### Conclusion
The research underscores the **growing threat** of climate change on public health in Alentejo, necessitating immediate action to prevent further loss of life as temperatures continue to rise.

The increased severity of extreme weather and anticipated climate change has intensified heat stress-related mortality worldwide. This study examines the historical short-term effects of heat on mortality in Alentejo, Portugal’s warmest region, and projects it up to the end of the century. Using data from 1980 to 2015 during warm seasons (May-September), the association between daily mortality by all-causes and mean temperature was examined following a case time series design, applied at both regional and subregional scales. Projections for daily temperatures were obtained from regional climate models and greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5). We also examined temporal shifts in mortality considering potential long-term and seasonal adaptative responses to heat. We then quantified the yearly effects of heat by calculating absolute and relative excess mortality from 1980 to 2015, specifically during the heatwave of 2003 (July 27 to August 15), and in future projections at 20-year intervals through 2100. The analysis revealed a significant rise in mortality risk at temperatures exceeding a minimum mortality temperature (MMT) of 19.0&nbsp;°C, with an exponential trend and delayed effects lasting up to 5 days. The risk increased by 413% at the maximum extreme temperature of 36.6&nbsp;°C. From 1980 to 2015, 2.32% of total deaths, equating to over 5,296 deaths, were heat-associated. No significant shifts over time were noted in the population’s response to heat. Future projections, without adaptation and demographic changes, show a potential increase in mortality by 15.88% under a “no mitigation policy” scenario by 2100, while mitigation measures could limit the rise to 6.61%. Results underscore the urgent need for protective health policies to reduce regional population vulnerability and prevent premature heat-related deaths across the century.

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

After a **sold-out debut** in Portugal this year, **The Phantom of the Opera** is set to enchant audiences once more from **October 14 to 25, 2025**, at the **Sagres Campo Pequeno** in Lisbon.

![The Phantom of the Opera](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/lisboasecreta.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20124432/fantasma-da-opera-dr-foto-1024x683.jpg)
*Photo: site @everythingisnewpt / DR / Disclosure*

**The Phantom of the Opera** is a **world-renowned musical** that needs no introduction. Following its **successful premiere in Portugal**, this international production—a collaboration between **Broadway** and the **West End**—is eagerly anticipated by fans.

The story unfolds around **Christine**, a young soprano at the **Paris Opera**, and the **Phantom**, a musical genius hiding in the theater’s catacombs. Based on **Gaston Leroux's** novel, the musical delves into the **Phantom's obsession** with Christine, leading to dramatic twists when she falls for her childhood friend **Raoul**. The narrative explores profound themes of **darkness, isolation**, and **compulsive love**.

### The Phantom of the Opera by the Numbers

This globally acclaimed production, created by **Andrew Lloyd Webber**, first premiered in **October 1986** in the **West End, London**. Since then, it has garnered **over 70 theater awards** and has been witnessed by more than **160 million people** across **190 cities** in **18 languages**. Tickets for this extraordinary experience are available at usual outlets, priced between **€45 and €140**.

<iframe src="https://199.71.214.121/embed/EGb4hj-EXt0?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cueW91dHViZS5jb20" width="736" height="414" allowfullscreen="1" scrolling="no"></iframe>

Após esgotar na grande estreia em Portugal este ano, “O Fantasma da Ópera” já tem data marcada para o reencontro com o público nacional.

Are Lisbon's City Councilors Acting Illegally? Experts Weigh In!

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Potential Legality Issues in Lisbon's City Council

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Other Latest News

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Chega's Rising Influence and Upcoming Elections

Admiral Gouveia e Melo Faces Legal Scrutiny for Sanctions Against NRP Mondego Sailors

Unraveled: Teachers' Unrest as Government Approves Controversial Pay Supplement

Exclusive Control of Algarve's 5-Star Hotel Transferred to Arrow Group

Portugal's Scientific Career Statute Overhaul: A Game Changer for Researchers?

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

The Phantom of the Opera Returns to Lisbon: A Must-See Musical Experience in 2025!

Other Latest News

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Chega's Rising Influence and Upcoming Elections

Admiral Gouveia e Melo Faces Legal Scrutiny for Sanctions Against NRP Mondego Sailors

Unraveled: Teachers' Unrest as Government Approves Controversial Pay Supplement

Exclusive Control of Algarve's 5-Star Hotel Transferred to Arrow Group

Portugal's Scientific Career Statute Overhaul: A Game Changer for Researchers?

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

The Phantom of the Opera Returns to Lisbon: A Must-See Musical Experience in 2025!