Summary:
Pedro Nuno Santos accuses the government of creating a workforce shortage.
Debate marks the first since the 2025 State Budget proposal was approved.
Criticism of the end of the previous immigration interest declaration regime leads to concerns over labor shortages.
80,000 workers are estimated to be missing, threatening the Recovery and Resilience Plan.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro defends the need for work visas and collaboration with labor sectors.
Tensions Rise in Parliament
During the opening of the biweekly parliamentary debate, Pedro Nuno Santos, the Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS), accused the government of creating a workforce shortage due to its immigration policies. This debate marked the first since the PS approved the government's 2025 State Budget proposal.
Key Arguments Presented
- Pedro Nuno Santos criticized the government's decision to end the previous immigration interest declaration regime, claiming it has led to significant labor shortages in crucial sectors such as construction, agro-industry, and tourism.
- He estimated a shortfall of 80,000 workers, warning that this could jeopardize the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), attributing the government's restrictive measures to a political rivalry with Chega.
Government's Response
- Prime Minister Luís Montenegro countered by linking the PS to Chega, stating that his government will not keep immigration policies too open and will require work visas for entry into Portugal.
- He assured that the government is currently collaborating with sectors in need of labor and is working to facilitate housing access for better social integration.
This exchange highlights the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies and their impact on the economy and labor market in Portugal.
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