### **Arrest of Suspected Arsonist in Oliveira de Azeméis**

The **Judicial Police** have arrested a **24-year-old man** suspected of starting a major wildfire in **Oliveira de Azeméis**. This fire, which raged for **six days**, devastated **thousands of hectares** of vegetation and tragically resulted in **loss of human life**.

![Devastation from the Wildfire](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/n8qtzf4yxftw.jfif?w=1852&q=80)
*The fire consumed tens of thousands of hectares of brush and forest. Photo: Archive*

The suspect, who works in manufacturing, has **not provided any motive** for his actions, raising concerns about the reasons behind such destructive behavior. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of **wildfires** and their severe impact on communities and the environment in Portugal.

A Polícia Judiciária deteve um homem de 24 anos, suspeito de ser o autor de um incêndio florestal em Oliveira de Azeméis, apenas extinto seis dias depois, após queimar milhares de hectares de mato e provocar a perda de vidas humanas. O suspeito, operário fabril, não apresentou qualquer motivação para os actos.

Arsonist Arrested for One of Portugal's Most Devastating Wildfires

## Burger King Opens New Locations in Lisbon  
The **Burger King** has just launched two new restaurants in **Lisbon**, located at **Avenida Almirante Reis 86** and **Largo das Fontaínhas 7**, Alcântara. With these openings, the brand now boasts **45 restaurants** in the Lisbon district and **19 in the capital**, solidifying a presence that began in **2001** with its first location at **Centro Comercial Colombo**.  

These new establishments have created **60 job opportunities**, bringing the total to over **1,300** jobs generated by Burger King in the Lisbon district. The Burger King communication team emphasizes, "Continuing to grow and create local opportunities is one of our brand's commitments."  

At the new restaurants, customers can enjoy the full menu, from the classic **Whopper** to limited editions like **Brutal Bacon**, available in meat, chicken, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The little ones are not forgotten, with **King Jr. menus** and the iconic crowns that symbolize Burger King.  

Both spaces, each over **350m²**, are designed for comfort and accessibility. They offer services such as **drink refills**, **pre-order kiosks**, **free wifi**, as well as **take away** and **Home Delivery**. The areas are intended for family or friend gatherings, combining modern architecture with a cozy atmosphere.  

The restaurant on Avenida Almirante Reis has a capacity of **162 seats**, with **114** in the dining area and **48** on the terrace. The Alcântara unit can accommodate up to **110 customers**, with **12** seats on the lower floor, **58** upstairs, and **40** on the terrace. Both locations operate daily from **11 AM to 12 AM**.  

These openings are part of Burger King's growth plan, which aims to inaugurate over **200 restaurants** in **Portugal** by the end of **2024**. The brand, which employs around **5,000** people nationwide, strengthens its goal of bringing the authentic grilled flavor across the country while simultaneously fostering local economic development through new job creation.

Com estas inaugurações, a marca passa a contar com 45 restaurantes no distrito de Lisboa e 19 na capital, consolidando uma presença que iniciou em 2001 com a

Burger King Expands in Lisbon: Two New Restaurants Open with 60 Job Opportunities!

**André Ventura**, the leader of Portugal's third most voted party, Chega, recently visited the **Martim Moniz neighborhood** in Lisbon, where he made a striking statement about a so-called **'political genocide' against the PSP (Public Security Police)**. Ventura urged politicians to stand in solidarity with the police instead of criticizing them.  

Ventura emphasized that a segment of the political landscape understands the necessity for police actions in areas plagued by **drugs, crime, prostitution, and illegal immigration**. He condemned the notion that all police officers are **racist** and stated that actions taken by the police should not be unjustified.  

He further argued, “Just as the police do not instruct journalists on how to perform their jobs, journalists should refrain from telling the police how to do theirs.” Ventura pointed out that the police were executing **judicial mandates**, which some found unfavorable. He remarked on the importance of **visible policing**.  

During a police operation last Thursday in Martim Moniz, authorities detained two individuals and confiscated nearly **€4,000 in cash**, along with **weapons, documents, a phone**, and counterfeit items. The heavy police presence in an area with many immigrants sparked social media discussions, showing images of individuals lined against a wall with their hands raised for police searches, raising questions about the necessity of such measures.

Em visita ao bairro do Martim Moniz, em Lisboa, o líder do terceiro partido mais votado em Portugal afirmou que está em curso um "genocídio político à PSP" e desafia os políticos a colocarem-se ao lado das forças de segurança.

Political Genocide? André Ventura's Bold Challenge to Support Police in Portugal

## New Tax Incentives for Foreign Professionals

The **Ministry of Finance** has officially released the list of **highly qualified professions** that will be eligible for the new **tax incentive for scientific research and innovation (IFICI)**, which replaces the previous **non-habitual resident regime**. 

### Eligible Professions

The list includes:
- **Executive Directors and Company Managers**
- **Administrative and Commercial Services Directors** (excluding those in security command roles)
- **Production and Specialized Services Directors**
- **Doctors**
- **University Professors**
- **Specialists in Physical Sciences, Mathematics, or Engineering**
- **Product and Equipment Designers**
- **Information and Communication Technology Specialists**

### Registration Deadlines

Professionals must register by **January 15** of the year following their residency establishment in Portugal. This year, however, there will be an **extension until March 15** for those who earned income in Portugal in 2024.

### Awaiting Additional Lists

An additional list of **economically relevant activities** for the national economy is yet to be compiled by the **Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade of Portugal (AICEP)** and **IAPMEI**.

### A Year to Finalize the Regime

The **2024 State Budget** has phased out the **Non-Habitual Resident Regime** that lasted over a decade, introducing the **IFICI** aimed at attracting and retaining specialized workers in **scientific research, investment, and business development**.

### Application Process

Soon, an **electronic form** will be available for applications, which must be submitted to:
- **Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)** for higher education and research roles
- **AICEP** for qualified jobs in investment benefits
- **Tax Authority (AT)** for highly qualified professions in companies benefiting from investment support

### Tax Benefits Under IFICI

The IFICI offers a **20% special tax rate** on net income from categories A and B earned in Portugal for a **10-year period** from the year of residency registration. Foreign income is exempt from taxation in Portugal, but must be included for determining applicable tax rates.

Notably, beneficiaries with income from non-resident entities in tax havens will face an increased rate of **35%**.

*Updated with additional information.*

O Ministério das Finanças já publicou a lista das profissões que poderão ser abrangidas pelo novo incentivo fiscal à investigação científica e inovação, que substitui o regime dos residentes não habituais. As inscrições passam a ter de ser até 15 de janeiro, mas este ano serão estendidas até 15 de março.

Exciting New Tax Benefits for Foreign Professionals and Emigrants in Portugal: Are You Eligible?

### Health Professionals Unite Against Discrimination

A total of **840 health professionals**, including **doctors, nurses, psychologists, social workers**, and **diagnostic technicians**, have signed an open letter protesting the recent changes to the **Health Basic Law**. This amendment, approved last week in the **Assembly of the Republic**, restricts **irregular migrants** from accessing public health care services.

The professionals argue that this change is **discriminatory** and undermines the principles of equality and access to healthcare for all, regardless of their immigration status. They are considering **civil disobedience** as a means to oppose this legislation, emphasizing the importance of health care as a fundamental right.

The letter highlights the collective stance of these professionals, who believe that health care should be available to everyone, and they are prepared to act against what they see as an unjust law.

Profissionais de saúde criticam alteração aprovada na Assembleia da República que muda Lei de Bases da Saúde, considerando-a discriminatória. E admitem desobedecer.

840 Health Professionals Stand Against Exclusion of Foreigners from SNS: A Call for Civil Disobedience

### Controversial Cargo
The **Russian cargo ship Sparta** experienced a malfunction in **Portuguese waters** but has since passed through **Gibraltar** and is now en route to **Syria**. This incident raises questions about the nature of its cargo and the implications for international relations, especially concerning **arms transport**.

### Implications of the Journey
The passage of such a vessel through Portuguese territory has sparked discussions about **Portugal's role** in global maritime security and the **monitoring of arms shipments**. Observers are concerned about how this may affect regional stability and the ongoing **conflict in Syria**. 

### Public Reaction
The public reaction has been mixed, with calls for **greater scrutiny** of ships passing through national waters, particularly those suspected of carrying **military equipment**. This event has highlighted the need for **transparency** in maritime activities and the responsibilities of nations in monitoring foreign vessels.

<p><span>O cargueiro russo Sparta teve uma avaria em águas portuguesas mas já passou por Gibraltar e está a caminho da Síria.</span></p>

Russian Cargo Ship Passes Through Portugal Carrying Arms to Syria

**The Rise of Musical Theatre in Lisbon**

Since the 1990s, when **Filipe La Féria** began staging musicals, the genre has seen significant growth in Lisbon, especially recently. But does the city have the potential to become a **Portuguese Broadway**?

Historically, musical theatre traces its roots back to **Ancient Greece**. Today, it has evolved through various forms, including opera and operetta, leading to the established musical scenes of **Broadway** and the **West End**. This year, **The Phantom of the Opera** arrives in Portugal, a collaboration between Broadway and West End productions, marking a significant milestone for local musical theatre. However, questions remain: is it too late, or just in time?

**Cultural Growth and Challenges**

The **musical genre** has traditionally faced challenges in Portugal, with many associating it with the more popular **revista** theatre style. La Féria's pioneering efforts helped shift this perspective, proving that musicals could indeed find an audience. He recalls a time when musicals were almost taboo, yet his belief in their potential has since been validated.

**Growing Interest and Opportunities**

As more producers recognize the potential of musical theatre, interest has surged among both audiences and artists. **Diogo Infante**, a well-known director, notes that the increasing number of productions reflects a growing public receptivity. Young actors are also eager for opportunities, participating in auditions and events like **Broadway in Lisbon**.

**Educational Foundations**

**Musical Theater Lisbon (MTL)** plays a crucial role in nurturing talent, providing training that connects local artists with the Broadway scene. This has sparked interest in the genre and raised its profile within the community.

**Financial and Spatial Limitations**

Despite the growth, significant obstacles remain. The **lack of investment**, high production costs, and insufficient venues hinder the expansion of musical theatre in Lisbon. While some theatres host musicals regularly, many cities in Portugal lack consistent programming, making it difficult for the genre to gain a foothold.

**Political Influence on Culture**

Cultural policies also impact the musical theatre landscape. Infante emphasizes the need for political support, advocating for early artistic education to cultivate future talent. Both La Féria and other industry professionals express concern over the stagnation of cultural funding, which limits opportunities for new generations.

**International Productions and Local Aspirations**

International musicals frequently visit Lisbon, but financial constraints often dictate their limited runs. Upcoming productions, like **Mamma Mia!** in 2025, highlight the ongoing struggle to balance costs while providing quality entertainment. Local productions are encouraged, with plans for original content in the future.

![Filipe La Féria](https://media.timeout.com/images/106217930/image.jpg)

**Looking Ahead**

As Lisbon continues to nurture its musical theatre scene, industry insiders remain hopeful for a future where the city can stand alongside cultural hubs like London and New York. With the right investments and community support, the dream of a Portuguese Broadway could one day become a reality.

Desde que La Féria começou a encenar musicais nos anos 90, o género tem vindo a crescer na cidade, especialmente nos últimos tempos. Mas terá Lisboa as condições para se tornar uma Broadway portuguesa?

Is Lisbon on the Brink of Becoming Portugal's Broadway? Discover the Musical Theatre Boom!

## Political Turmoil in Madeira

The political landscape in **Madeira** is in upheaval following the **recent vote of no confidence** against the minority government led by **Miguel Albuquerque** from the Social Democratic Party (PSD). The **Republic’s Representative** for the Autonomous Region, **Ireneu Barreto**, is set to meet with **President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa** in Belém to discuss the situation.

### Recent Developments

The **Madeiran Legislative Assembly** approved the motion of censure last Tuesday, with support from all opposition parties, while only PSD and CDS-PP voted against it. In a series of meetings held on Thursday, Barreto consulted with various political parties, including **PSD, PS, JPP, Chega, CDS-PP, IL, and PAN**.

Barreto reported that all parties expressed a desire for **elections as soon as possible**. He attempted to find a **governing solution** within the current legislative framework but was unsuccessful. The **most likely date for early elections** is projected to be **March 9**, contingent upon the President's decision after consultations with the parties and the **Council of State**.

### PSD Leadership Challenges

Amidst this, Miguel Albuquerque has resisted calls for an extraordinary congress or direct elections within the PSD, suggesting that such actions would lead to a **“fratricidal war”** among parties. He believes the Madeiran people prefer **stability** and quick regional elections.

During the consultations, Albuquerque reiterated the urgency for **early legislative elections**, emphasizing that a prolonged hiatus would not serve the interests of the population. Other parties, including **PS, Chega, and JPP**, echoed the sentiment for **prompt elections**, while **CDS-PP** suggested a **reasonable timeline** to allow parties to rethink their strategies.

The **IL party** also expressed readiness for early elections. Before any dissolution of the Madeira Legislative Assembly, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa must hear from all parliamentary parties and convene the Council of State, as stipulated by the **Constitution of the Republic**. These discussions are likely to occur early next year.

É mais um passo no processo político após o derrube do Governo Regional da Madeira. O representante da República para a Região Autónoma avista-se esta segunda-feira, em Belém, com o presidente. Ireneu Barreto vai oficializar, junto de Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, a informação de que não pôde ser obtida uma solução para substituir o Executivo de Miguel Albuquerque. E consultar o chefe de Estado.


Arsonist Arrested for One of Portugal's Most Devastating Wildfires

Summary:

Arrest of Suspected Arsonist in Oliveira de Azeméis

Comments

Join Our Community

Subscribe our newsletter to receive our daily digested news

PortugalToday.news

Other Latest News

Burger King Expands in Lisbon: Two New Restaurants Open with 60 Job Opportunities!

Political Genocide? André Ventura's Bold Challenge to Support Police in Portugal

Exciting New Tax Benefits for Foreign Professionals and Emigrants in Portugal: Are You Eligible?

840 Health Professionals Stand Against Exclusion of Foreigners from SNS: A Call for Civil Disobedience

Russian Cargo Ship Passes Through Portugal Carrying Arms to Syria

Is Lisbon on the Brink of Becoming Portugal's Broadway? Discover the Musical Theatre Boom!

Political Crisis in Madeira: Calls for Early Elections Intensify

Other Latest News

Burger King Expands in Lisbon: Two New Restaurants Open with 60 Job Opportunities!

Political Genocide? André Ventura's Bold Challenge to Support Police in Portugal

Exciting New Tax Benefits for Foreign Professionals and Emigrants in Portugal: Are You Eligible?

840 Health Professionals Stand Against Exclusion of Foreigners from SNS: A Call for Civil Disobedience

Russian Cargo Ship Passes Through Portugal Carrying Arms to Syria

Is Lisbon on the Brink of Becoming Portugal's Broadway? Discover the Musical Theatre Boom!

Political Crisis in Madeira: Calls for Early Elections Intensify