## Parliament's Upcoming Vote on Municipal Separation  
This Friday, **deputies** will cast their votes regarding the **separation of 300 municipalities** under a simplified regime. Among these, **six municipalities are eagerly awaiting** a decision that could impact their **local governance** before the upcoming elections.  

![Municipal Separation](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/adv48qfavkxl.jpg?w=1852&q=80)  
*Covilhã witnessed the separation from a union that included Canhoso, a locality with 1,200 residents.*  
*Photo: Pedro Reis Martins / Archive*  

This significant move aims to streamline local governance, but the **clock is ticking** for these municipalities as they hope for a timely resolution ahead of the **local elections**. The outcome of this vote will be crucial for the future of these communities and their administrative structures.

Deputados votam, nesta sexta-feira, a desagregação de 300 autarquias ao abrigo de um regime simplificado, mas há outras que anseiam por decisão a tempo das autárquicas.

Parliament Set to Decide on Divorcing Six Municipalities This Friday

### Pinto Luz Responds to Investigative Scrutiny

**Miguel Pinto Luz**, the current Minister of Infrastructure, expressed **tranquility** regarding the ongoing investigation into the Cascais City Hall. He emphasized that he has not yet been contacted by authorities since the searches began, focusing on alleged favoritism towards a real estate company.

> **"Yesterday, justice worked. Therefore, it is with enormous tranquility and normality that we, political actors, must coexist with this scrutiny."**

Pinto Luz, who served for **20 years in the Cascais municipality**, affirmed that his team operated with the **"superior interests" of the population** as their main premise. He views the investigation as an opportunity to clarify any misunderstandings surrounding the **sale of land for a hotel in an ecological reserve**.

### Key Points of the Investigation

Pinto Luz stated:
- **"I am confident that the truth will come to light, and I will have the opportunity to explain myself. But I have not been contacted or sought out; I only know from the media."**
- He mentioned that the **Cascais City Hall sold an 800-square-meter plot for a price significantly above existing valuations**, although **the hotel was not built on that specific land** as it lacked construction capacity.
- The land was described as a **"national ecological reserve"**, and the hotel structure does not occupy any of that territory. Pinto Luz clarified that the sold land represents only **"five percent of the total operation"** and is part of the hotel garden.
- He insisted that during his tenure, he held no **financial or property-related responsibilities** and expressed solidarity with the decisions made by his team.
- Regarding **tax exemptions** for the five-star hotel, he stated:
  > **"I don’t know what you are talking about. The exemptions are under a public, transparent municipal regulation."**

The **Judiciary Police** conducted searches in Cascais and Lisbon, following a criminal complaint against political leaders in Cascais, including President **Carlos Carreiras** and Pinto Luz himself, concerning the sale of municipal land for the construction of the **Hilton Hotel** and approximately **120 luxury apartments**.

Miguel Pinto Luz afirma não ter ainda sido contactado pelas autoridades, desde que se iniciaram as buscas na Câmara de Cascais, no âmbito de uma investigação por suspeitas de favorecimento a uma empresa do ramo imobiliário. O ainda ministro das Infraestruturas admite que a Justiça está a funcionar, considera normal "conviver com este escrutínio" e afirma querer "esclarecer tudo" sobre a venda de um terreno para um hotel numa reserva ecológica. O antigo vice-presidente da Câmara garante que, enquanto esteve em funções, as decisões da autarquia eram no "superior interesse" da população.


Pinto Luz Faces Scrutiny with Calm Amid Cascais Investigation

The **PS candidate lists** for the upcoming legislative elections have been approved with an impressive **92%** of votes from the National Political Commission. President **Carlos César** emphasized the party's **unity** and commitment to its leader and the campaign. Despite internal tensions, the overwhelming vote signals a strong push for the **PS** to secure a **majority** in the elections.

### Internal Tensions and Aiming for Majority
Pedro Nuno Santos downplayed internal conflicts, focusing instead on the party's goal to be the **"most voted party"**. The meeting aimed to mobilize party structures, especially given the **tight polling** figures. César urged voters to show **greater confidence** in the PS, noting that winning by even a single vote is crucial.

### New Faces and Diversity in Candidate Lists
The meeting revealed some **challenges** in candidate selection, with some factions expressing concerns over a lack of **diversity** and **youth** in the lists. Notably, **Eva Cruzeiro**, a rapper and human rights activist, is included in a prominent position, reflecting the party's effort to appeal to younger voters. Her engagement with the PS on social media indicates a strategic move to attract a broader demographic.

### Criticism and Political Strategy
During the meeting, rival **José Luís Carneiro** highlighted the significant contributions of departing candidates, including **Paulo Pisco**, who was instrumental in achieving two absolute majorities in Europe. Meanwhile, concerns were raised by **Sofia Pereira**, the leader of the JS, about the need for more inclusive representation in candidate lists.

### Campaign Focus
Pedro Nuno Santos emphasized that the campaign will focus on **health** and **housing**, key issues impacting voters' lives. He criticized the government's use of state resources for campaigning, highlighting a need for the PS to maintain ethical standards. The party is determined to steer the narrative away from controversies surrounding other political figures, aiming instead to resonate with voter concerns on practical issues. Santos concluded with a confident declaration of victory in the upcoming elections.

Pedro Nuno Santos desvaloriza tensões internas, apoiado numa votação nacional de 92%. Mostra recear efeito das sondagens na mobilização do partido e ouviu queixas da JS. PS já só pede mais um voto.

PS Candidate Lists Approved with Overwhelming Support: A New Era for Portugal's Political Landscape

### Tense Public Session on Jacaranda Tree Removal in Lisbon  
Over **five hours**, more than **two hundred residents** attended a public session to discuss the controversial project involving the **removal of jacarandas** from Avenida 5 de Outubro. The discontent among residents has been directed towards the **Lisbon City Council (CML)**, which they accuse of prioritizing **car traffic** over green spaces.  
  
As the session progressed, frustrations peaked two hours in, as the audience grew restless waiting for updates on the **jacarandas**. The representative from **Fidelidade Property**, a partner in the project, faced interruptions leading to police intervention to restore order. Calm returned when **Councilor Joana Almeida** announced that citizen interventions would be moved up in the agenda.  

Despite the **significant backlash**, the administration of **Carlos Moedas** remains steadfast in moving forward with the project, sparking further outrage among local residents who feel their voices are being ignored.

Ao longo de mais de cinco horas, mais de duas centenas de moradores estiveram na sessão pública para debater o projeto que inclui a retirada de jacarandás. As queixas alastraram à política da CML "feita a pensar nos carros". Apesar da enorme contestação, o executivo de Carlos Moedas não dá um passo atrás na obra prevista para a 5 avenida de outubro&nbsp;

Tensions Rise as Lisbon Residents Clash Over Jacaranda Tree Removal Project

The **PS (Socialist Party)** is set to replace over **half of its candidates** for the upcoming legislative elections in May. The most notable changes include:

### Key Changes in Candidate Lists
- **Pedro Delgado Alves** will now represent **Coimbra**, while **Marcos Perestrello** moves to **Santarém**.
- **Paulo Pisco** has been replaced by **Emília Ribeiro** in the **European constituency**.
- **Pedro do Carmo** returns in **Beja**, while **José Luís Carneiro** leads the list for **Braga** after his previous controversies.

This reshuffling comes after discussions in the party's **executive committee**, where the final list composition was to be approved.

### Notable Candidates and Constituencies
- **Pedro Nuno Santos** remains the **number one candidate** for **Aveiro**, facing **Luís Montenegro**.
- **Mariana Vieira da Silva**, the former Minister, will lead the list for **Lisbon**.

### Reasons Behind the Changes
Several candidates have shifted due to new roles or relocations:
- **Francisco Assis** and **Ana Catarina Mendes** have moved on to **Brussels**.
- **Aida Carvalho** now leads the list in **Guarda**, taking over from **Ana Mendes Godinho**.
- **Marcos Perestrello** takes on the challenge in **Santarém** due to **Alexandra Leitão**'s candidacy for **Lisbon**.

### Unknown Reasons for Changes
The replacement of **Paulo Pisco**, a long-time representative since **1999**, raises questions, as he is succeeded by **Emília Ribeiro**.

In **Madeira**, **Paulo Cafôfo** is also replaced by **Emanuel Câmara** after significant electoral losses. Other notable shifts include:
- **Rui Santos** from **Vila Real** and **Júlia Rodrigues** from **Mirandela** entering the race for the **Assembly of the Republic**.

In the **Alentejo**, **Luís Moreira Testa** returns to lead in **Portalegre**, and **Pedro do Carmo** replaces **Nelson Brito** in **Beja**. The list includes many familiar faces, with **Pedro Nuno**, **Carneiro**, and **Vieira da Silva** among those returning.

Depois da polémica com José Luís Carneiro na lista de Braga, socialistas aprovaram candidatos nesta quarta-feira. Mais de metade das lideranças foi mudada.

Major Shake-Up in PS Candidate Lists: Who's In and Who's Out for the Upcoming Elections?

### Celebrate 12 Years of 'Deixem o Pimba em Paz'  
The beloved show **“Deixem o Pimba em Paz”** returns this summer, celebrating its **12th anniversary** with **12 concerts** featuring various guests in **Lisbon** from **June 24 to July 16** at the **Teatro Maria Matos**.  

### A Star-Studded Line-up  
Created by **Bruno Nogueira**, along with **Manuela Azevedo**, **Filipe Melo**, **Nuno Rafael**, and **Nelson Cascais**, the show is set to deliver a mix of popular Portuguese music, showcasing the **rich repertoire** of **pimba music**. While the names of the 12 guests have yet to be announced, past performances have seen contributions from artists like **António Zambujo**, **Salvador Sobral**, and **Samuel Úria**.  

### Ticket Information  
Tickets are currently on sale for **22 euros** each. The quintet will perform beloved hits with fresh arrangements, featuring songs from renowned artists such as **Quim Barreiros**, **Ágata**, **José Malhoa**, and **Marco Paulo**.  

### Noteworthy Tracks  
The setlist will include classics like:  
- *24 rosas*  
- *Comunhão de bens*  
- *Porque não tem talo o nabo*  
- *Azar na praia*  
- *Garagem da vizinha*  

### A Unique Perspective on Pimba Music  
Bruno Nogueira has been vocal about his mission to **explore pimba music's potential** beyond its typical reputation. He believes pimba is a **unifying genre** that tells relatable stories, challenging the stigma often associated with it. According to him, those who criticize pimba are often the same people who enjoy dancing to it.  

### Previous Success  
The show has previously been recorded in a live album and has featured performances with the **Orquestra Metropolitana de Lisboa**, highlighting its cultural significance in the Portuguese entertainment landscape.

O espetáculo de Bruno Nogueira, Manuela Azevedo, Filipe Melo, Nuno Rafael e Nelson Cascais, acontece entre 24 de junho e 16 de julho no Teatro Maria Matos.

Experience the Joy of 'Deixem o Pimba em Paz' – 12 Exciting Summer Shows in Lisbon!

### A Rare Green Spring in Southern Portugal

The **Alentejo** and **Algarve** regions are experiencing a remarkable transformation this spring, with landscapes more vibrant than they have been in decades. After **30 years**, the fields, rivers, and streams are flowing with an abundance of water, brought on by recent storms.

![Planície alentejana](https://services.meteored.com/img/article/o-alentejo-e-o-algarve-estao-verdes-e-floridos-como-ha-muito-nao-se-via-1743444295008_1024.jpg)
*Fields blooming with clover in Messejana, Aljustrel. Photo: Tempo.pt*

According to the **Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere**, rainfall in the **first two weeks of March** was more than double the historical average in the Algarve and three times more in the Alentejo. This has led to **historically low water levels** in reservoirs being replenished, providing nearly three years' worth of water supply for both regions.

### Spring Colors and Opportunities

The fields are now blanketed in **green**, much to the delight of farmers and livestock breeders. The vibrant colors of **yellow, purple, and white** flowers are a rare sight, making this an excellent time for a visit.

With the pleasant spring temperatures, it's the perfect moment to plan a getaway to witness firsthand the lush landscapes that the March rains have brought, contrasting sharply with the **arid conditions** seen in recent years.

The arrival of spring has filled the landscape with **yellow clovers, wild poppies, white daisies**, and **purple lilies**. The mild weather encourages outdoor activities like **hiking and walking** during the morning or evening.

![Alte, Loulé](https://services.meteored.com/img/article/o-alentejo-e-o-algarve-estao-verdes-e-floridos-como-ha-muito-nao-se-via-1743444524276_1024.jpg)
*The fields of Alte, Loulé are filled with wildflowers. Photo: Tempo.pt*

### Exploring the Algarve's Nature

Away from the summer tourist crowds, visitors can explore the **orange groves** of **Silves**, the capital of oranges in Portugal, where the citrus aromas are in full bloom. The spring season is also a prime time for birdwatching, with migratory birds returning and locations like **Lagoa dos Salgados** and the protected wetlands of **Ria Formosa** being ideal for spotting various species.

### Alentejo's Lavender and Chamomile Fields

The Alentejo region is equally blessed with the March rains. The spring showcases fields filled with **lavender** and **chamomile**, providing lush pastures for livestock and habitats for wildlife. The **Alqueva** and **Guadiana** rivers offer numerous trails for exploration, featuring historic cities like **Évora**, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

![Mimosa, Santiago do Cacém](https://services.meteored.com/img/article/o-alentejo-e-o-algarve-estao-verdes-e-floridos-como-ha-muito-nao-se-via-1743444788155_1024.jpg)
*The Alentejo plains are now dotted with puddles, where frogs can be heard croaking. Photo: Tempo.pt*

As day turns to night, the **Alentejo** also offers memorable experiences under the stars, particularly in the **Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve**, renowned for its clear night skies, making it an ideal conclusion to a day spent enjoying the natural beauty that has flourished thanks to the rains of March.

Há 30 anos que não havia tanta água a correr nos campos, nos rios, ribeiros e riachos que atravessam as planícies e as serras do Alentejo e Algarve.

Experience the Unprecedented Bloom of Alentejo and Algarve: A Spring Spectacle Awaits!

### Ria Formosa: A Precious Jewel

There’s no doubt that the **Ria Formosa** is a "**jewel**" of Portugal, renowned for its **natural, cultural, economic, and touristic value**. In a high-traffic area, the best approach is to **prevent** and **advise**, which is the strategy adopted by **Turismo do Algarve** in their newly launched campaign: **"Ria Mais que Formosa - Admira e Preserva"**.

This campaign, which will be promoted extensively in **April and May**, targets not only visitors but also local residents and tourism agents. The goal is to raise awareness about the **preservation and enhancement** of the natural and cultural resources of the **Ria Formosa Natural Park**.

In a statement, it was emphasized that there is a need to **reinforce** the perception of the Ria as a **natural and cultural heritage** that should be enjoyed **consciously**.

### Campaign Details

Integrated into the **Co-management Plan** of the **Ria Formosa Natural Park (PNRF)** and funded by the **Environmental Fund**, the campaign is designed with a **strong and emotional visual approach** featuring three protagonists: the **Fisherman**, the **Shellfish Gatherer**, and the **Nature Guide**. These characters symbolize the link between **community, tradition, and sustainability**, as noted by **André Gomes**, President of **Turismo do Algarve**. The campaign aims to highlight **responsible behaviors** that contribute to the **protection** of the **ecosystem** and the cultural identity of Ria Formosa.

### Promotion Channels

The campaign will reach audiences through **outdoors**, **buses**, and **digital platforms** (Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Google, and TikTok), as well as through direct contact points with visitors, including the **tourist information network** of **Turismo do Algarve**. Online, visitors will find **recommendations**, a subtitled video in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, and eco-friendly brochures made from **seed paper**.

The direct message is **clear**: "**Ria Formosa is a natural jewel that must be protected by everyone**."  

![Ria Formosa](https://108.181.33.135/embed/AWYf_g0krLw?si=G5isl_-1hAO_u2tp&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.publico.pt)

A região lançou a campanha “Ria Mais que Formosa - Admira e Preserva”. O apelo aos visitantes: desfrutem deste “património natural e cultural” de “forma consciente”.

Parliament Set to Decide on Divorcing Six Municipalities This Friday

Summary:

Parliament's Upcoming Vote on Municipal Separation

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Major Shake-Up in PS Candidate Lists: Who's In and Who's Out for the Upcoming Elections?

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Experience the Unprecedented Bloom of Alentejo and Algarve: A Spring Spectacle Awaits!

Discover the Hidden Gem of Ria Formosa: A Call to Protect Algarve's Natural Treasure