### Surge in Tourist Tax Implementation

In just one year, from July 2023, the number of **Portuguese municipalities** applying the **tourist tax** has more than **doubled**. Last year, only **15 municipalities** charged this fee on overnight stays in hotels and local accommodation units. Now, that number has increased to at least **38 municipalities**, with more planning to implement the tax by **October**.

The introduction of this tax has been justified as a measure to **mitigate the effects of tourism pressure** on local areas. As the demand for tourism continues to rise, these municipalities aim to manage the influx of visitors more effectively.

Hotel industry representatives have criticized the **"banalization"** of this tax, expressing concerns over its growing prevalence across the country.

Dez anos após caso das “taxas e taxinhas”, são cada vez mais as autarquias a tributarem as dormidas. Eram 15 em Julho do ano passado, agora são 38. Mais se juntarão. Hotelaria critica “banalização”.

Tourist Tax Hike: Portugal's Municipalities Double in Just One Year!

### Arrest on the 25th April Bridge

On Wednesday morning, **a dramatic scene unfolded** on the 25th April Bridge as police apprehended three suspects involved in a robbery. At 11:38 AM, a PSP officer was seen chasing a young man across the bridge, ultimately subduing him with handcuffs. The operation, captured by startled drivers forced to halt, lasted about an hour due to unexpected traffic disruption.

The suspects had just committed a **robbery at a jewelry store** in Fátima and were fleeing when they decided to stop their vehicle on the bridge. They attempted to escape on foot towards the lower deck of the bridge. Despite their initial attempts to evade capture, they were closely monitored by the **Judiciary Police (PJ)** since the robbery occurred.

### Ongoing Surveillance

The PJ had been tracking this group since **August 28**, following a similar robbery in Fátima. The police were well aware of their routines and were confident that the suspects would attempt to cross the bridge towards **Almada and Monte da Caparica**, where they reside. Consequently, they coordinated with the PSP to implement a traffic blockade.

According to PJ sources, the suspects had previously attempted to resist arrest in Fátima, armed and allegedly firing shots. However, during the bridge incident, they chose to abandon their vehicle and flee on foot instead of using their weapons.

### Organized Crime Group

The group is described as **“highly organized and very violent,”** with a history of criminal activities, including previous jewelry store robberies. Their movements have been meticulously monitored, revealing their patterns and locations for potential future crimes. The police's proactive measures aim to prevent further incidents and ensure public safety.

Os três detidos na ponte 25 de Abril, esta quarta-feira, eram já conhecidos da PJ. Dois têm antecedentes por assaltos também a ourivesarias. Fazem parte de grupo “bastante organizado e violento”.

Dramatic Arrest on 25th April Bridge: Violent Crime Wave Under Police Surveillance

## Education Crisis in Portugal

As the **new school year** kicks off, the **first week of classes** has been overshadowed by a **severe shortage of teachers** across the country. Particularly, **Lisbon, Alentejo, and Algarve** are identified as the most affected regions. 

Currently, approximately **100,000 students** are left without a teacher for one or more subjects, highlighting a growing **educational crisis** that is spreading nationwide. The situation demands urgent attention as students face the **consequences of inadequate teaching resources**.

![Cynthia Valente](https://asset.skoiy.com/dncxpgxxypnfpero/rpfumqadvjvg.png?w=48&q=80)

*By Cynthia Valente*  
*Published on September 18, 2024, at 16:19*  
*Reading time: 5 minutes*

Primeira semana de aulas marcada pela falta de professores de Norte a Sul. Lisboa, Alentejo e Algarve continuam a ser as zonas mais críticas, mas o problema está a alastrar-se a todo o país. Há cerca de 100 mil alunos sem professor a uma ou mais disciplinas.

Crisis in Education: 100,000 Students Across Portugal Lack Teachers as School Year Begins

### Incident Overview
A **12-year-old student** perpetrated a shocking attack at a **primary school in Azambuja** on Tuesday, **stabbing six classmates**. The incident occurred around **2:30 PM**, prompting an immediate response from the **National Republican Guard (GNR)**, who dispatched patrols to the scene.

### Government Response
The government has expressed its concern and stated that it is closely monitoring the situation, labeling the attack as an **"isolated act"** of violence. One of the victims, a girl, is reported to be in **serious condition** and receiving medical attention.

This incident has raised alarm and concern among parents and the local community regarding the safety of schools in the area. As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on understanding the motives behind this tragic act of violence.

Um aluno, que usava um colete à prova de bala, esfaqueou outros seis estudantes numa escola básica da Azambuja, confirmou fonte oficial da GNR. Uma menina “inspira cuidados”.

Shocking Attack in Azambuja School: 12-Year-Old Stabs Six Students

### **Suspension of the Municipal Assembly Meeting**  
On Tuesday, the president of the Municipal Assembly of Lisbon, **Rosário Farmhouse**, suspended the plenary session following a heated exchange between **PSD** and **BE** deputies. This incident occurred after **Carlos Moedas**, the Mayor of Lisbon, left the room due to accusations of lying.  

During the assembly, Moedas was presenting the executive's work from July to August when **Maria Escaja**, a BE municipal deputy, criticized him for allegedly blaming the previous administration for the installation of large advertising panels, which was signed during his current term.  

"**Carlos Moedas lies. Why doesn’t he take responsibility?**" Escaja challenged. In defense of his honor, Moedas exited the room at 5:27 PM.  

### **Continued Tensions and Discussions**  
The discussion continued with **Joana Teixeira**, another BE deputy, asserting that Moedas's actions showed an inability to address the issues raised. This led to further debates among PSD, CDS-PP, and independent deputies from the **Cidadãos Por Lisboa** movement.  

**Miguel Graça** from Cidadãos Por Lisboa commented that the right-wing deputies' interjections were due to the BE being represented by female deputies, which escalated tensions, prompting Farmhouse to suspend the meeting for five minutes.  

### **Resumption of the Meeting**  
Upon resuming at 5:55 PM, the assembly continued with Teixeira's speech. In Moedas's absence, **Filipe Anacoreta Correia**, the vice-president of the chamber, expressed regret over the incident. Moedas returned to the room at 6:05 PM.  

### **Political Reactions**  
During the session, **Bruno Mascarenhas** from Chega presented two views on the incident, stating, "I don’t see any kind of misogyny [...] and I don’t understand the BE’s attitude questioning the mayor's honorability." He suggested that Moedas lacked the resilience to remain in the room.  

In response, Moedas rejected this political approach of questioning individuals' integrity. From the PSD bench, **Carlos Reis** criticized those who turn politics into a black-and-white exercise, stating that accusations of lying undermine democratic political debate, especially with upcoming local elections in 2025 where Moedas is expected to run again.  

### **Advertising Controversy**  
The installation of up to **125 large digital advertising panels** in Lisbon has prompted the **Automóvel Club de Portugal (ACP)** to file a precautionary measure against the city council and advertising companies, arguing that their size and placement threaten road safety. The city council has requested that **JCDecaux** halt the installation of additional panels and will negotiate solutions for those already in place.  

Despite the process starting under the previous administration, the current council approved the contract with JCDecaux in **September 2022**, which lasts for 15 years and includes significant financial compensation to the city. The contract stipulates the installation of various advertising structures, including **900 mupis**, **2,000 bus shelters**, and **75 public toilets**, among others, with a focus on digital advertising.

"Carlos Moedas mente. Porque é que não assume as responsabilidades?", interpelou Maria Escaja.

Tensions Rise in Lisbon's Municipal Assembly as Mayor Accused of Lying

### Emergency Response Crisis in Portugal
A **60-year-old man** tragically lost his life after waiting for **over an hour** for emergency assistance in Olhão, Algarve. This incident highlights the **serious deficiencies** in the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM) response system, as **two initial calls went unanswered** before help was finally dispatched on the third attempt.

![Emergency Response](https://bordalo.observador.pt/v2/q:60/rs:fill:980/c:1280:719:nowe:0:1/plain/https://s3.observador.pt/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/16201802/4w3a75290185-scaled_1280x720_acf_cropped.jpg)

The emergency call was made at **11:03 AM**, but the family struggled to connect with the emergency services. It wasn't until **11:27 AM** that the emergency operations center (CODU) became aware of the situation. According to the **President of the Union of Pre-Hospital Emergency Technicians**, Rui Lázaro, the **peak in calls** that morning hindered timely responses.

The INEM later reported that the man suffered a **cardiac arrest**, and emergency medical teams arrived too late, leading to his death at the hospital. The **INEM has launched an investigation** into the incident, acknowledging a significant **delay in response times**.

### Staffing Shortages at INEM
This incident underscores a **long-standing issue** within INEM: a **severe shortage of emergency technicians**. Currently, INEM operates with only **700 out of the 1,700 technicians** required, leaving **800 positions unfilled**. While INEM claims the shortfall is only **400**, they admit to the staffing crisis.

The **insufficient number of professionals** has led to an alarming increase in **call wait times** and **vehicle inoperability** rates. In fact, **over 80%** of emergency vehicles in the Algarve have been reported inactive due to the lack of personnel.

### Response Times and Future Reforms
The **inoperability rate** of emergency vehicles has risen to **1.77%**, the highest in a decade, with the situation expected to worsen without significant reforms. **Recruitment issues** have plagued the organization, as only **30% of positions were filled** in 2022. The **current recruitment drive** is anticipated to yield similar results, with fears that less than **25% of new positions will be filled**.

The **Minister of Health**, Ana Paula Martins, has expressed dissatisfaction with INEM's performance and has initiated a **technical audit** to assess their operational effectiveness. She aims to **restructure INEM** to better meet the emergency demands of the 21st century. 

### Conclusion
The tragic death of the man in Algarve serves as a grim reminder of the **urgent need for systemic improvements** within Portugal's emergency response framework. Without significant changes, many more lives may be at risk. 


Homem de 60 anos esperou uma hora por socorro e acabou por morrer. Chamadas acumulam-se e não há técnicos suficientes para garantir a resposta. "Cuidados à população estão em causa", diz sindicato.

Tragic Delay: 60-Year-Old Dies in Algarve After Hour-Long Wait for Emergency Help

### Algae Bloom in Algarve Beaches

A significant **algae concentration** has been observed at various beaches in the Algarve, but officials assure that this is a **normal and recurring situation** that does not compromise water quality. According to a source from the **Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA)**, this phenomenon is becoming increasingly common due to **climate change**, prevailing winds, and warming sea temperatures, yet it poses no danger to bathers.

The accumulation of algae has been particularly noticeable in rocky beaches around the western Algarve, including **Praia de Olhos d'Água**, **Lagoa**, **Portimão**, and **Lagos**. The algae consist of both **native and some invasive species**, which do not affect public health or water quality. However, their presence can cause discomfort for beachgoers.

The APA monitors this situation closely, conducting daily analyses of water quality and reporting no contamination linked to the algae thus far. José Carlos Rolo, the mayor of Albufeira, noted that these marine organisms frequently appear during periods of eastern winds and that the municipality actively removes them to prevent unpleasant odors resulting from their drying.

Despite these efforts, Rolo mentioned that it can be a **thankless task**, as algae may reappear quickly after removal. He emphasized that the natural processes of the sea, including tidal movements, typically manage the situation, and decomposition on the beaches is a natural occurrence without public health impacts.

The APA also highlighted that **brown and red algae** are more common in the western Algarve, while **green algae** are predominant in the eastern regions.

### Related News
- [Commercial algae harvesting authorized from August to November](https://www.noticiasaominuto.com/pais/2614920/apanha-de-algas-com-fins-comerciais-autorizada-entre-agosto-e-novembro)

A elevada concentração de algas verificada em várias praias do Algarve "é uma situação normal e recorrente" e não afeta a qualidade da água balnear, disse hoje à Lusa fonte da Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA).

Algarve Beaches Experience Algae Bloom: What You Need to Know

## **Lisbon's Mobility Challenges**

Lisbon is set for a **difficult day** on Wednesday, September 18, as **Carris workers** have called for a **24-hour strike**. The arbitration court has ruled that there will be **no minimum services** for either buses or trams during this strike.

Workers participating in the strike will ensure that essential services related to the **safety and maintenance** of equipment and facilities, as well as emergency services, remain operational. However, this does not extend to regular transport services. Minimum services will only apply to **transport for individuals with disabilities**, emergency vehicles, and medical services.

The strike was organized by **Fectrans** and **STRUP**, primarily to advocate for a **€100 salary increase** and a **€15 increase in meal allowances**. This comes despite Carris having reached agreements with other unions for smaller increases of **€60** and **€13**, respectively. Additionally, there is a demand for a phased reduction of the **workweek to 35 hours**, which would include travel time.

Interestingly, this strike coincides with the **152nd anniversary** of Carris, which will feature a **classic vehicle parade** on Saturday.

## **Stay Updated**

For more updates, follow the [Time Out Lisboa WhatsApp channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaImNsW6LwHeF5LgS52C).  

### **Related News**  
[Metro de Lisboa to Receive 42 New, More Modern and Accessible Trains](https://www.timeout.pt/lisboa/pt/noticias/metro-de-lisboa-vai-ter-42-novas-carruagens-mais-modernas-e-acessiveis-091624)

As reivindicações passam por aumentos salariais e pela redução do horário de trabalho para 35 horas semanais.

Tourist Tax Hike: Portugal's Municipalities Double in Just One Year!

Summary:

Surge in Tourist Tax Implementation

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Other Latest News

Dramatic Arrest on 25th April Bridge: Violent Crime Wave Under Police Surveillance

Crisis in Education: 100,000 Students Across Portugal Lack Teachers as School Year Begins

Shocking Attack in Azambuja School: 12-Year-Old Stabs Six Students

Tensions Rise in Lisbon's Municipal Assembly as Mayor Accused of Lying

Tragic Delay: 60-Year-Old Dies in Algarve After Hour-Long Wait for Emergency Help

Algarve Beaches Experience Algae Bloom: What You Need to Know

Lisbon's Public Transport Faces Major Disruption as 24-Hour Strike Hits Carris

Other Latest News

Dramatic Arrest on 25th April Bridge: Violent Crime Wave Under Police Surveillance

Crisis in Education: 100,000 Students Across Portugal Lack Teachers as School Year Begins

Shocking Attack in Azambuja School: 12-Year-Old Stabs Six Students

Tensions Rise in Lisbon's Municipal Assembly as Mayor Accused of Lying

Tragic Delay: 60-Year-Old Dies in Algarve After Hour-Long Wait for Emergency Help

Algarve Beaches Experience Algae Bloom: What You Need to Know

Lisbon's Public Transport Faces Major Disruption as 24-Hour Strike Hits Carris