Montenegro Defends Health Minister Amid Controversy Over Gandra d'Almeida's Role

The Prime Minister has assured that neither he nor the Health Minister were aware of any potential incompatibilities regarding former SNS Executive Director António Gandra d'Almeida during the previous government. This statement came on the same day Health Minister Ana Paula Martins acknowledged her awareness of the CReSAP report that highlighted Gandra's dual roles.

Key Points from the Council Meeting

According to reports from Lusa, during a closed-door PSD National Council meeting, Luís Montenegro emphasized that neither he nor Minister Ana Paula Martins "knew or had any way of knowing" about any incompatibilities during the previous administration.

The controversy revolves around Gandra d'Almeida's resignation, who, for over two years, held the position of director of INEM in the North while also working as a part-time doctor in Faro and Portimão, reportedly earning over €200,000 for those shifts.

Minister's Response

Hours before Montenegro's declarations, Health Minister Ana Paula Martins was asked if she was aware of Gandra d'Almeida's dual roles. Martins confirmed she was familiar with the CReSAP evaluation report, stating, "Naturally, I know the CReSAP report... and the opinion we received was positive."

Despite the controversy, Montenegro praised the Health Minister, arguing that the public pressure she faces is not due to the current government's actions, but rather what "was not done" before this government took office.

CReSAP's Position

CReSAP clarified that during Gandra d'Almeida's interview, the issue of potential dual roles was not discussed. They stated, "It is not the role of CReSAP to assess incompatibilities and impediments in previous positions, as this committee does not have oversight powers."

Following Gandra d'Almeida's resignation, the government announced the appointment of Álvaro Almeida, former president of the Health Regulatory Entity and ex-PSD deputy, to lead the SNS executive direction.