PSD's Summer University: Montenegro Unveils Youth-Focused Policies Amidst Political Turmoil

Key Highlights from PSD's Summer University

The final day of the PSD Summer University featured a significant address by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, who emphasized various recent measures aimed at benefiting young people in Portugal. Montenegro asserted that the "true political instability" in the country lies within the opposition, accusing leaders of the PS and Chega parties of being "resentful and disoriented" regarding upcoming State Budget negotiations.

Photo: Nuno Veiga - Lusa

Montenegro highlighted several decisions made by the government, stating, "We have only been in government for a little over four months, but there are many decisions we can reference today that emerged from discussions held here." Among these, he noted the increased availability of student housing, addressing the severe shortage that impacts young people's academic efforts. He described this situation as one of the "most serious problems" and "greatest injustices" facing youth, where many struggle for years academically only to be hindered by their families' financial situations.

He acknowledged criticisms that these measures might be seen as "electoralist", but clarified, "These measures are being implemented now because they were not taken before." At the beginning of his speech, he also expressed condolences for the five GNR soldiers who tragically died in a helicopter accident on the Douro River.

Montenegro pointed out new regulations that facilitate applications for the Porta 65 program, which no longer requires a rental contract. He also mentioned the exemption from stamp duty for home purchases by young people under 35 and a public guarantee that could significantly impact their ability to buy homes.

A noteworthy strategic measure announced was that young Portuguese would only pay one-third of the income tax on their earnings, allowing them "better conditions to establish their professional lives" and achieve independence from their parents.

Political Climate

In his speech, Montenegro reiterated that the "true political instability" belongs to the opposition, asserting that the current government does not need elections to govern or legitimize itself. He emphasized, "This government has enough to fulfill our program, provided there is political responsibility in Portugal to avoid governmental blockages." He concluded that "the country is with the government, but we are uncertain if the opposition is with the country." His remarks lasted around 40 minutes, during which he firmly stated that "Portugal has no instability in government, except for that of the opposition."