Summary:
Finance Minister confident in reaching an agreement with firefighters despite protests.
Accusations against PS of adding €1 billion in expenses to the 2024 State Budget.
State spending is "controlled" with a positive economic outlook for 2025.
Criticism of parliamentary decisions that limit government discretion.
Confirmation of TAP's privatization plans by 2025.
Finance Minister's Interview Highlights
In a recent interview with RTP, Finance Minister Joaquim Miranda Sarmento expressed strong confidence that the government will reach an agreement with the firefighters despite recent protests in Lisbon. He emphasized the need for balance among various public service careers.
Budget Concerns
Regarding the 2024 State Budget, Sarmento accused the Socialist Party (PS) of teaming up with Chega to add €1 billion in expenses, arguing that they were acting as if they could replace the government. He pointed out that the proposed increase for starting firefighters' salaries—€360 by 2027—is comparable to that of security forces.
He also addressed warnings from the Bank of Portugal's governor, Mário Centeno, concerning the increase in current expenses, attributing most to decisions made by the previous government.
Economic Growth Outlook
Sarmento assured that state spending remains "controlled" and predicted a positive economic evolution in 2025. He mentioned that a proposed 1% reduction in corporate tax (IRC), as part of the 2025 budget, could yield significant results based on economic theory.
He reiterated the government's goal to further reduce the IRC rate and highlighted that the upcoming budget is favorable as it does not increase any taxes and reduces several.
Critique of Parliamentary Decisions
However, he criticized the parliament for limiting the government's discretionary power through unilateral decisions, including abolishing tolls on former Scut highways and cutting VAT on electricity, which he deemed beyond their role. He emphasized that this budget "holds PS and Chega accountable".
TAP Privatization Plans
On the topic of TAP, the national airline, Sarmento confirmed the government's intention to privatize by 2025 but stated there is no rush, prioritizing the achievement of objectives over speed.
For those interested, the full interview can be viewed here.
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