### Overview
The defense attorney for **Ricardo Salgado** is pushing for a **new medical examination** of the former banker. They argue that without assessing Salgado's **capabilities**, the trial regarding the **BES/GES case** could be rendered **null**.

### Court's Stance
Despite the defense's claims, the judges believe that Salgado's **illness** does not obstruct the continuation of the trial. This raises significant questions about the legal proceedings surrounding one of Portugal's most notable financial scandals.

### Related Articles
- [Defesa de Salgado quis impedir reprodução de depoimento](https://108.181.11.39/noticias/pais/defesa-de-salgado-quis-impedir-reproducao-de-depoimento_v1608118?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucnRwLnB0)
- [Processo do GES. Tribunal começa a ouvir gravação de interrogatório de Salgado](https://108.181.11.39/noticias/pais/processo-do-ges-tribunal-comeca-a-ouvir-gravacao-de-interrogatorio-de-salgado_n1607954)

O advogado de Ricardo Salgado insistiu numa nova perícia ao ex-banqueiro. A defesa entende que o julgamento do caso BES/GES pode ser considerado nulo caso não seja feita uma averiguação às capacidades de Ricardo Salgado.


Ricardo Salgado's Defense Demands New Medical Examination Amidst BES/GES Trial Controversy

### Pedro Nuno Santos Proposes Abstention from 2025 State Budget

**Pedro Nuno Santos**, the leader of the **Socialist Party (PS)**, announced on Thursday his intention to propose to the National Political Commission the party's **abstention** in the voting of the **2025 State Budget**. This move allows the document to proceed despite the lack of an agreement following negotiations with the government.

In a roughly ten-minute declaration, Santos emphasized that the current government, led by **Luís Montenegro**, is isolated and more dependent than ever on the **largest opposition party**. He stated, **"It is currently an isolated government, completely dependent on the largest opposition party."**

Despite the absence of a formal agreement, Santos expressed a commitment to the Portuguese people, considering that there were **legislative elections just seven months ago**. He warned that rejecting the budget could lead the country to face **third legislative elections** in less than three years, without a guarantee of achieving a stable majority.

### The Role of PS in Current Politics

Santos highlighted the role of the PS as a **"responsible and consistent"** party. He reiterated the importance of having a **strong political alternative** within a democracy, emphasizing that the PS stands as the main alternative to a **PSD government**.

While he did not rule out discussions on issues related to **sovereignty and security**, he firmly opposed the notion of a **central bloc** between PS and PSD unless in extreme situations that threaten democracy. He noted, **"The norm is that the main opposition party votes against the State Budget proposal presented by the government."**

Santos acknowledged that making political choices can be challenging. He referred to the recent **"sad and chaotic episode"** between PSD and Chega regarding the election of the President of the Assembly of the Republic, indicating the right's failure to establish a **majority government**.

### Key Demands and Government Concessions

In light of these circumstances, the PS decided to offer a **"minimal solution"** for the budget that would allow for their abstention. The two key demands were related to **IRS Jovem** and **IRC**. Santos noted that the government made **substantial concessions on IRS Jovem** and partial concessions on IRC, stating that these changes were **"not a victory for PS, but a victory for the country."**

However, he pointed out that the **basic conditions** set by the PS were not fully met, and their proposals concerning **housing, health, and pensions** were also rejected. 

### Looking Ahead

During the press conference, Santos underlined the PS's focus on the upcoming **municipal elections** and future general states throughout the next year. He refrained from indicating how the party would vote on future budgets during the legislature.

The discussion and voting for the **2025 State Budget** are scheduled for **October 30 and 31**, followed by general discussions and a final vote on **November 28**. The National Political Commission of the PS will deliberate on the voting stance and the proposal communicated by Santos next Monday.

O líder do PS anunciou esta quinta-feira que vai propor à Comissão Política a abstenção do partido na votação do Orçamento do Estado para 2025. Pedro Nuno Santos permite desta forma a viabilização do documento. 


Pedro Nuno Santos Proposes Abstention from PS on 2025 State Budget Vote: What It Means for Portugal's Political Landscape

**Pedro Nuno Santos**, the Secretary-General of the **Socialist Party (PS)**, announced the party's position regarding the **State Budget** during a conference in Lisbon. He emphasized the importance of a strong opposition for democracy, stating, *“I assumed that the PS would lead the opposition after the most recent elections.”* He expressed his dissent against potential agreements with the **Social Democratic Party (PSD)**, arguing against any form of a central block unless democracy is at stake.  

Santos defended the PS's usual stance of voting against the **State Budget**, maintaining that *“we should not have the two main parties committed to the same governance.”* He outlined the party's demands, including **IRS Jovem** and **IRC**, labeling them as costly and ineffective measures.  

He explained that the proposal for abstention in the final vote is to avoid causing public account imbalances. Santos noted that the PS's reasons for this decision are not due to the merit of the proposed budget, which faces **firm opposition** from the party.  

The announcement, initially planned for Monday, was moved up to today, with Santos stating, *“I am not impulsive.”* He assured that the PS is united in this complex issue that required consultation within the party.  

Santos has previously criticized the proposed budget as being unsatisfactory and called for party unity. Meanwhile, Prime Minister **Luís Montenegro** commented on the confusion among EU counterparts regarding the ongoing negotiations for the State Budget in Portugal. The **PSD** is set to meet at a Congress this weekend, although uncertainties remain about the budget's approval.

O secretário-geral do Partido Socialista anuncia ao país a posição sobre o Orçamento do Estado, numa conferência na sede partidária, no Largo do Rato em Lisboa....

Pedro Nuno Santos Proposes Abstention for PS on State Budget Vote: What It Means for Portugal's Political Landscape

### President's Stance on State Council Meeting

In statements made to journalists after attending a closure event organized by the **Comunidade Vida e Paz** in Lisbon, **Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa** addressed questions regarding the lack of a State Council meeting following the government's budget proposal submission.

He explained that a second State Council meeting would be necessary to specifically discuss the **State Budget**, but emphasized that it is crucial to have **new data** beyond what was discussed in the last meeting held on **October 1st**. Without this new information, he stated, the Council would not convene again just to reiterate previous positions.

### Future Plans for Council Meetings

The President expressed that it seemed reasonable to hold off on the meeting for now, with the possibility of calling it later if warranted. Currently, he has no plans for a new meeting.

When asked about his optimism regarding the approval of the State Budget, Rebelo de Sousa remarked that he refrains from commenting on the budget to avoid adding to the noise, yet he continues to hold the same views on what he believes is beneficial for the country. He asserted, "I haven’t changed my mind about what is good for the country."

### Context of Recent Discussions

The State Council had convened on **October 1st** amidst budget negotiations, where the President acknowledged applying pressure for the approval of the **2025 Budget**. Earlier in September, he indicated plans to call another meeting specifically focused on the State Budget, but without a set date, following the government's proposal presentation expected on **October 10th**. He noted that the key steps involve understanding the proposed law, observing reactions to it, and scheduling the second meeting as soon as possible.

O Presidente da República descartou hoje a possibilidade de convocar novamente o Conselho do Estado para debater o Orçamento do Estado sem haver “dados novos”, reiterando a convicção de ...

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa Explains Decision Against State Council Meeting on Budget

### Key Measures Approved by the Government

- **€331 million for Landscape Management and Environmental Fund**: The Government has allocated **€331 million** over **20 years** for Integrated Landscape Management Operations (OIGP) via the Environmental Fund, aimed at enhancing **rural fire prevention**.

- **Increased Support for Affected Businesses**: In a significant move, the limit on support for businesses impacted by fires has been raised from **€200,000 to €300,000**, marking a **50% increase**. This change comes as part of the government's efforts to include fire incidents in the disaster support framework.

- **Posthumous Promotions for Fallen Military Personnel**: The Government has decided to **posthumously promote** the five GNR military personnel who tragically died in a helicopter crash while combating rural fires. This unprecedented decision was confirmed by Minister António Leitão Amaro, highlighting the Government's recognition of their service and sacrifice.

- **Compensation for Families**: The families of the deceased GNR members will receive a **special death compensation** of **€205,000** each, acknowledging their loss and the duty performed by the soldiers.

- **Changes to Judicial Career Requirements**: The Government has revised the requirements for entering the judicial career, eliminating the master's degree prerequisite and accepting only a **bachelor's degree**. This adjustment aims to simplify recruitment in a field facing increasing challenges in attracting candidates. Additionally, the status of judicial auditors will now be equivalent to that of research fellows, providing better support and conditions for prospective judges.

These measures are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country's resilience against disasters and improve the judicial system.

O Conselho de Ministros decidiu hoje aumentar o teto do apoio às empresas afetadas pelos incêndios, passando de 200.000 para 300.000 euros, anunciou o ministro da Presidência....

Government Boosts Support for Fire-Affected Businesses to €300,000 Amidst New Measures

### Government's Advertising Cut Decision Criticized

There is a **widespread consensus** within the Independent General Council (CGI) of RTP regarding the government's decision to end advertising on public service: **"the measure is wrong"**. This statement was made by **Alberto Arons de Carvalho**, a member of the CGI, during a parliamentary session.

Following **critical hearings** of both the **Board of Administration** and the **Advisory Council** of RTP, Arons de Carvalho echoed their concerns about the government’s decisions.

### Flawed Financial Projections

He argued that the government's plan to gradually eliminate advertising from **2025 to 2027** aims to cut predictable revenues **without a known alternative**, which **"doesn't make sense"**. He criticized the government’s projected loss of **€18 million** from the advertising cut, suggesting that the CGI’s calculations indicate a **much higher figure** of **€36 million**. He noted, **"If we foresee cutting two minutes in the first year, four in the second, and six in the third year, that totals €36 million, not €18 million"**.

### Financing the RTP

Emphasizing that the financing model of RTP is **"extremely relevant for rights, freedoms, and guarantees"**, he questioned whether such a significant issue should only be part of the concession contract or included in legislative changes or state budget laws. Arons de Carvalho raised concerns about potential **"constitutional problems"** due to systematic financing cuts affecting the operational integrity of public radio and television.

He proposed an increase in the **Audiovisual Contribution (CAV)**, which is included in electricity bills, as a more stable funding option compared to compensatory indemnities, which would make RTP overly reliant on economic and political situations. He stated that **"the CAV is more predictable and regular"**, and highlighted that it has not been updated in years.

### Urgent Call for Government Action

Arons de Carvalho urged the government to either **reconsider its misguided decision** or for the parliament to take legislative actions to prevent this situation. He asserted that **"there are services that only exist because they are on RTP"**, referencing regional programming and international channels, and emphasized the significant impact of drastic revenue cuts without known alternatives.

He pointed out that RTP is among the **cheapest public services in Europe** in terms of GDP per capita, comparing it to the BBC and RTVE, and argued that RTP is a **competitive product** given its role. 

He concluded by suggesting that the intention behind the measure seems to be to **benefit private television operators**, although he doubts their existence as the revenue transfer would likely go to digital platforms.

### Additional Voices

**Isabel Medina**, another CGI member, remarked that **"undercutting RTP is undermining the country's future"**, questioning the motives behind this attack on RTP at this juncture. These comments drew criticism from the PSD, with deputy **Carlos Reis** rejecting the notion that RTP is under attack, stating that the hearings appeared to be more of an attack on the government itself.


Alberto Arons de Carvalho, membro do Conselho Geral Independente da RTP, diz que "não faz sentido" cortar publicidade sem anunciar medida de financiamento alternativa. E critica as contas do Governo. 

RTP's Independent Council Critiques Government's Advertising Cut: A Flawed Financial Move?

### Groundbreaking Documentaries from Porto de Mós

**Pedro Miguel Santos** and **Diogo Cardoso**, journalists from the digital magazine **Divergente**, are set to present two remarkable documentaries at **Doc Lisboa**, Portugal's oldest documentary film festival, commencing this Thursday.

One of the featured films, **“Por ti, Portugal, eu juro!”**, directed by **Sofia de Palma Rodrigues** and **Diogo Cardoso**, focuses on the **African Commandos of Guinea**. These individuals, who fought under colonial rule and were Portuguese citizens until 1974, are often overlooked in historical narratives. The filmmakers note, "The PAIGC refers to these men as 'monsters'; Portugal labels them as heroes but has never recognized them as such."

Produced by **Divergente**, this documentary will have its **world premiere** on **Saturday, October 19**, at **Culturgest** in Lisbon, followed by a national cinema release on **November 7**.

![Pedro Miguel Santos](https://www.regiaodeleiria.pt/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pedro-Santos-1024x1024.jpg)
*Pedro Miguel Santos*

![Diogo Cardoso](https://www.regiaodeleiria.pt/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/diogo-cardoso-1024x836.jpg)
*Diogo Cardoso*

The second documentary, **“O Palácio de Cidadãos”**, which will have its **world premiere** on **Tuesday, October 22**, at **Cinema São Jorge** in Lisbon, explores the workings of the parliament over the course of a legislative session. This film addresses critical issues such as **housing rights**, **health**, and **employment** and is expected to lead to a thematic television series in the future.

Director **Rui Pires** emphasizes a unique approach, stating, "I aim to view the Assembly of the Republic and its actors through the lens of real cinema, moving away from traditional journalism. I will reveal how the actions of deputies reflect societal conflicts, creating connections between citizens inside and outside the Palace."

The **Doc Lisboa** festival runs from **October 19 to October 27** across various venues in the Portuguese capital.

Documentários "Por ti, Portugal, eu juro!” e “O Palácio de Cidadãos” são apresentados nos próximos dias em estreia mundial

Exciting Premieres: Porto de Mós Journalists Unveil Two Documentaries at Doc Lisboa!

## Montenegro Addresses EU Leaders on 2025 Budget Negotiations

Prime Minister **Luís Montenegro** revealed that **European Union (EU)** leaders have inquired about the ongoing negotiations for the **State Budget 2025 (OE2025)**. He urged the **Socialist Party (PS)** to avoid exacerbating **political instability** during these uncertain times.

During his arrival at the **European Council** in Brussels, Montenegro stated, "**My colleagues have asked me about the OE2025**. News travels fast in Europe, and we share our realities. It's known that we have a **budgetary process underway**, and there is no absolute majority in the Portuguese parliament to support the Government."

Montenegro emphasized the significance of the current economic climate, noting that **political instability** could worsen the situation, especially with **international conflicts** and economic difficulties faced by partners. "**It’s crucial for Portuguese political leaders** to understand that increasing internal political instability does not serve the national interest or the citizens' welfare," he remarked.

He asserted that the Government has done everything possible to align positions with the opposition's conditions. "**Now, it’s up to the main opposition party** to make its decision, which I hope will support the budget. Naturally, I respect the Socialist Party's position and will await their response calmly."

Last Thursday, the Government submitted its **OE2025 proposal** to parliament, projecting a **1.8% economic growth** in 2024 and **2.1% in 2025**, alongside a **0.4% surplus** of the **Gross Domestic Product (GDP)** this year and **0.3% next year**. The proposal is yet to secure general approval, with voting scheduled for **November 31**.

If the PSD/CDS Government's budget is approved with PS abstention or Chega's support, it will be reviewed in detail between **November 22 and 29**, with the final vote set for **November 29**.

O primeiro-ministro, Luís Montenegro, disse hoje ter sido questionado pelos seus homólogos da União Europeia (UE) sobre as negociações do Orçamento do Estado para 2025 (OE2025), desafiando o PS a evitar "agravar a situação com instabilidade política interna".

Ricardo Salgado's Defense Demands New Medical Examination Amidst BES/GES Trial Controversy

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Government Boosts Support for Fire-Affected Businesses to €300,000 Amidst New Measures

RTP's Independent Council Critiques Government's Advertising Cut: A Flawed Financial Move?

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Pedro Nuno Santos Proposes Abstention from PS on 2025 State Budget Vote: What It Means for Portugal's Political Landscape

Pedro Nuno Santos Proposes Abstention for PS on State Budget Vote: What It Means for Portugal's Political Landscape

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa Explains Decision Against State Council Meeting on Budget

Government Boosts Support for Fire-Affected Businesses to €300,000 Amidst New Measures

RTP's Independent Council Critiques Government's Advertising Cut: A Flawed Financial Move?

Exciting Premieres: Porto de Mós Journalists Unveil Two Documentaries at Doc Lisboa!

Montenegro Challenges PS on Stability Amid EU Budget Talks