Mariana Mortágua Blasts Political Failures in Madeira's Wildfire Response

Political Accountability in the Wake of Wildfires

The recent wildfires in Madeira that shocked the nation prompted Mariana Mortágua, the National Coordinator of the Left Bloc (BE), to visit the affected areas, particularly the burned regions of Serra de Água. In her political assessment, she highlighted a "brutal failure" in the management of the crisis, pointing fingers at Miguel Albuquerque, the President of the Regional Government, among others.

Mortágua emphasized the importance of assigning political responsibilities, stating that "these responsibilities lie with Miguel Albuquerque, and also with the parties supporting the PSD here in the RAM: Chega, Iniciativa Liberal, PAN, and CDS."

Surrounded by charred landscapes near the lookout point below the Pousada dos Vinháticos, Mortágua declared, "Everything failed in the fires". She criticized the lack of prevention measures and the region's exclusion from the National Fire Combat Plan, which hinders the immediate deployment of national resources.

Adding to the criticism, she noted that the Regional Government not only failed to intervene promptly but also rejected assistance from the Republic. The Secretary responsible for Civil Protection, Pedro Ramos, admitted that only 10% of the resources were utilized to combat the fire, which Mortágua deemed a "huge irresponsibility".

She also pointed out Albuquerque's negligence, stating that the Regional President preferred to remain on vacation in Porto Santo, leaving the population to fend for themselves.

Mortágua reiterated that the BE believes Miguel Albuquerque is unfit to lead the Regional Government of Madeira, and that the PSD lacks the capability to govern effectively. This assertion stems not only from the wildfire crisis but also from what she described as "the arrogance and disrespect that Miguel Albuquerque has shown towards the people of Madeira".

During her visit, Mortágua announced that the BE will propose an increase in aerial firefighting resources stationed in Madeira, funded by the State, with a proposal to be included in next year's State Budget.

She justified her delayed visit to Madeira by stating, "Disaster scenarios are not a stage for politicians to engage in propaganda or showcase themselves to the country. After the most dramatic moment has passed, we must not forget the tragedies or the anguish that these communities experienced, and there are political responsibilities that must be addressed."