### Traffic Blocked During Hotel Workers' Protest

The **protest by hotel workers in Madeira** took place between the **Casino da Madeira** and the **Regional Tourism Secretariat**, leading the **Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP)** to temporarily block traffic on the **Avenida do Infante**.

![Protest Image](https://static-storage.dnoticias.pt/www-assets.dnoticias.pt/images/configuration/LG/53e6eb4b-28b0-43fa-be55-2fd1747d1f2d.JPEG)

The disruption to vehicular traffic was not primarily due to the protesters, who chose to walk along the pedestrian path of the busy avenue. Instead, it was caused by a police officer accompanying the event in a police vehicle, moving at the same pace as the marchers, which led to the **inevitable blockage of normal traffic**.

Durante manifestação do Sindicato dos Trabalhadores da Hotelaria

Traffic Disruption in Madeira: Hotel Workers Protest Causes Police Intervention

### Iniciativa Liberal Prepares for Leadership Change

This weekend, **Iniciativa Liberal (IL)** is holding its **IX National Convention** in Loures, where approximately **1,500 members** are registered to elect the next party president. The contest is between the current leader, **Rui Rocha**, and national advisor **Rui Malheiro**.

### Historical Context

This marks only the **second time** in IL's history that there will be a **presidential contest**. Rui Rocha was elected leader in 2023 with **51.7%** of the votes, defeating Carla Castro and José Cardoso. Since its formal establishment on **December 13, 2017**, IL has had **four presidents**, including Rocha and previous leaders João Cotrim Figueiredo, Carlos Guimarães Pinto, and Miguel Ferreira da Silva.

### Membership Growth

According to official data, IL currently boasts **7,258 members**, reflecting a **20% growth** since the last convention in 2023, where the party had **6,025 members**.

### Political Structure

IL operates with **three national political bodies**: the National Convention, National Council, and Executive Committee, along with two technical bodies (Jurisdiction Commission and Oversight Commission). It also has local structures called **nuclei** and internal units such as the **Study Office** and **Youth Group**.

### Founding and Electoral Journey

IL was founded by the **Associação Iniciativa Liberal** in September 2016 to unite all liberal Portuguese citizens. It launched its electoral journey in the **2019 European elections**, securing **0.88%** of the votes. However, in the **2022 legislative elections**, IL achieved significant success, garnering **273,399 votes** (4.91%) and obtaining **eight parliamentary seats**.

### Recent Developments

In the **March 2024 legislative elections**, IL maintained its position as the **fourth political force** in parliament with **eight deputies**, while in the **2024 European elections**, it reached its best result ever, obtaining **358,458 votes** (9.08%) and electing **two MEPs**.

### Leadership Transition

The party's leadership has seen several changes, with **Miguel Ferreira da Silva** being the first president elected in 2017. Following him, **Carlos Guimarães Pinto** and **João Cotrim Figueiredo** led the party, with Rocha winning the leadership in January 2023. Now, Rui Malheiro aims for the presidency after Tiago Mayan Gonçalves withdrew due to controversy over falsified signatures.


A IX Convenção Nacional da Iniciativa Liberal decorre este fim de semana, em Loures. Os liberais elegem o próximo presidente do partido. Rui Rocha ou Rui Malheiro, quem será o eleito? Confira cinco pontos essenciais sobre o partido formado em 2017.

Iniciativa Liberal's National Convention: Key Insights on Leadership and Growth

### Community's Stance on Mosque Construction
The president of the Arroios parish in Lisbon, **Madalena Natividade**, stated that the **Bangladeshi community** has no issue with the decision not to build a mosque in Mouraria. She emphasized that the community believes there are already too many places of worship in the area.

### Misrepresentation of Community Leadership
Natividade criticized the representation of the Bangladeshi community, asserting that **Rana Taslim Uddin**, who was consulted during the process, is not recognized as their representative and is viewed as an unwelcome figure within the community. She pointed out that the community does not support the construction of a new mosque.

### Concerns Over Safety and Security
The president mentioned the closure of a worship space on **Rua Maria Andrade** due to safety concerns, stating that the community supports this decision. She indicated that if necessary, she would close other mosques in the area as well to ensure safety for worshippers and residents.

### Political Reactions
**José Leitão**, a deputy from the Socialist Party, expressed confusion over Natividade's comments, questioning why there was no mention of Uddin's support among thousands of Bangladeshis. He warned against violating religious freedom laws, highlighting the importance of respecting the right to religious practice.

### Current Status of Mosques in Mouraria
Currently, there are **six active mosques** in Mouraria, which serves a significant South Asian community. There are ongoing discussions about a new mosque project initiated in **2012**, which has faced delays and protests. The municipal assembly is reviewing the situation after consultations with various organizations, including the **Islamic Community of Lisbon**.

A autarca de Arroios afirmou que a AML deveria ter ouvido outros representantes da comunidade do Bangladesh e atirou que Rana Taslim Uddin não é reconhecido pela comunidade como seu representante.

Bangladeshi Community in Lisbon's Arroios Supports No New Mosque in Mouraria

### The Upcoming Leadership Decision of Iniciativa Liberal

This weekend, the next president of the **Iniciativa Liberal (IL)** will be unveiled. The contest is between **Rui Rocha**, the incumbent seeking re-election, and **Rui Malheiro**. Additionally, the convention will elect the **National Council**, which is responsible for guiding the party's political strategy, and will vote on **24 sectoral motions** covering various issues from immigration to security, including a recommendation against coalitions in **Lisbon**, **Porto**, and **Braga**.

### Rui Rocha's Vision

Rui Rocha, who is running for a second term, has expressed that he possesses the **“energy necessary”** to transform the party into **“a bold, change-oriented governance solution”**. He emphasizes the need to **“develop a political solution that brings real change to Portugal.”** Under his leadership, IL has achieved significant milestones, including its first parliamentary representation in **Madeira**, **Açores**, and the **European Parliament**, while maintaining its presence in the national parliament.

In an interview with *Nascer do SOL*, Rocha dismissed internal divisions, stating, **“I am very eager for the election, as the Iniciativa Liberal convention will indeed mark a new phase. It's normal to have criticism; it would be concerning if there weren't any.”** He anticipates the convention to be a **celebration** of the party's journey and a **launchpad** for future challenges.

### Rui Malheiro's Challenge

In the race for leadership is Rui Malheiro, representing the **‘United by Liberalism’** movement. He took on this challenge following the departure of **Tiago Mayan**, which was marred by controversy over signature falsification. Malheiro asserts that his candidacy **“reflects the desire to elevate the values of the United by Liberalism Movement to a new level,”** aiming for a **political project** that strengthens the pillars of liberalism, focusing on **individual freedom, entrepreneurship, and equal opportunities**.

Malheiro believes that the IL should **“aim to be the Government in the medium to long term”** and targets a **10% voting intention** in the near future, aspiring to broaden the party's appeal to reach the entire Portuguese population. He criticized Rocha's leadership for failing to unite members and achieve the desired voter engagement, pointing out several shortcomings: **“There has been a lack of communication and courage to explain our liberal measures to the Portuguese public.”** He insists that the IL must convey its messages clearly and authentically.

### National Council Elections

Six lists are competing for the **National Council**, as reported by *Nascer do SOL*. The latest to announce include **List D**, led by former national council member **Ricardo Lopes**, **List A** with **Francisco Cudell**, and **List M** by **Jorge Pires**. These join previously known candidates: **Bernardo Blanco** from List F, **André de Serpa Soares** from List T, and **Pedro Ferreira**, current vice-president of the National Council and the IL convention, heading **List X**.

The convention will also feature **three candidacies** for the **Judiciary Council** and **four for the Supervisory Council**.

Rui Rocha surge como favorito na reeleição para um segundo mandato na Comissão Executiva. Rui Malheiro mantém esperança na vitória face às atuais falhas da atual liderança. Há que contar ainda com as eleições para o Conselho Nacional.

Who Will Lead Portugal's Iniciativa Liberal? Meet the Contenders: Rui Rocha vs Rui Malheiro

### Daily Disruptions in Lisbon's Metro

In 2024, the **Lisbon Metro** reported an alarming average of **1.4 service disruptions per day**, totaling **539 occurrences** throughout the year. This marks an **11% increase** from the previous year, mainly due to **train malfunctions**.

### Service Interruptions and Delays

The reported disruptions included delays exceeding the normal waiting times and complete halts in service across various lines. The data indicates that **every two days**, there are service interruptions lasting more than **30 minutes**. The **Blue Line** is notably the most affected, experiencing approximately **double the incidents** compared to other lines due to its length and higher passenger traffic.

![Metro Service Disruption](https://bordalo.observador.pt/v2/q:60/rs:fill:560/plain/https://s3.observador.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/31171936/captura-de-ecra-2025-01-31-as-171417.jpg)

### Causes of Failures

The primary cause of these disruptions is attributed to **train malfunctions**, which have surged by **69%**. The aging fleet is a significant factor contributing to these failures. In 2022, the Metro operated with **333 train cars**, many dating back to the late 1990s, despite the network expanding over the years.

### Passenger Incidents

Another contributor to service disruptions includes **incidents involving passengers** and external factors, which accounted for **133 occurrences** in 2023, dropping to **118** last year. These incidents range from disturbances to intrusions on the tracks.

### Future Improvements

The Metro company is optimistic that the ongoing fleet renewal and a new **signaling system** will lead to **significant improvements** in service efficiency, aiming to reduce the frequency of malfunctions and enhance passenger experience.

Em 2024, operação do Metro registou mais do que uma ocorrência por dia que afetou o serviço. Nível de falhas subiu 11% devido a avarias de comboios. Esperam-se melhorias com nova frota e sinalização.

Why Lisbon's Metro System Is Struggling: Daily Failures and Future Improvements

### **Judicial Request for Parliamentary Hearing**

On Friday, the **Office of the President of the Assembly of the Republic** received a request from the **Central Criminal Instruction Court** for authorization to hear **Deputy Miguel Arruda** as a defendant in a case concerning the **qualified theft of luggage** at Lisbon airport. The document does not explicitly state that this is a request for the lifting of parliamentary immunity, which is necessary for a deputy to be heard.

### **Next Steps in the Process**

The court's request has been forwarded to the **Transparency and Statute of Deputies Commission**, responsible for drafting opinions on such matters. The request is expected to be distributed in next week's meeting, so approval in plenary is anticipated to take about **two weeks**.

### **Legal Context of Parliamentary Immunity**

This request is crucial for Arruda’s hearing, as deputies enjoy **parliamentary immunity**—they cannot be heard as witnesses or defendants without the Assembly's authorization. The law mandates that the Parliament must grant immunity lifting when there are **strong indications of a willful crime** that carries a prison sentence exceeding three years. The qualified theft charge, which can result in up to **five years of imprisonment or a fine of 600 days**, fits this criterion.

### **Background on Miguel Arruda**

The former deputy of **Chega**, now non-affiliated, was made a defendant on **January 21** following police searches at his homes in Lisbon and Ponta Delgada. During these searches, **13 bags** were seized, identified as stolen from Lisbon airport between mid-October and mid-December. Surveillance footage recorded Arruda taking a total of **19 bags** from various luggage carousels.

Lei prevê que deputados só sejam ouvidos pela justiça através do levantamento da sua imunidade parlamentar. Autorização ainda deverá demorar duas semanas.

Parliament Approval Needed for MP Miguel Arruda's Hearing in Theft Case

## Government Funding Shift

The **Portuguese Government** has announced a significant **reprogramming** of the **Recovery and Resilience Program (PRR)**. This involves proposing to the **European Commission** a **transfer of funding** for key projects, including the **desalination plant in Albufeira** and the **water intake project at Pomarão**, which were originally part of the PRR. Instead, these projects will now be funded under the **Climate Action and Sustainability Program (Sustainable 2030)**.

Additionally, the **Pisão dam project** will receive funding through the **Portugal 2030 program** and the **State Budget**. This strategic move reflects the government's commitment to adapting its funding strategies in response to evolving environmental priorities. 

![Algarve Water Projects](https://example.com/image.jpg) 

Stay tuned for updates on how these changes will impact water resource management and sustainability efforts in the Algarve region.

O Governo anunciou a reprogramação do Programa de Recuperação e Resiliência (PRR) e propõe à Comissão Europeia a transferência do financiamento dos projetos para o Programa Sustentável 2030

Government Shifts Funding for Algarve Desalination and Water Projects to New Climate Program

## New Initiatives for Immigrant Workers

The **Socialist Party (PS)** is pushing for a new approach to streamline the hiring of **foreign workers** in Portugal. They propose that companies looking to recruit immigrants should handle all processes through the **AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum)**. This agency will facilitate the necessary procedures with consulates, ensuring immigrants arrive in Portugal with the required **visa**, **employment contract**, and **residence authorization**.

### Timely Meetings with Employment Institute

A significant aspect of this proposal is that for those applying for **job search visas**, the PS wants these visas to include a scheduled meeting with the **IEFP (Institute for Employment and Professional Training)** within the first **30 days** of arrival. This initiative aims to provide immediate support and guidance for new immigrants.

### Access to Residency for Temporary Workers

Additionally, the proposal seeks to allow those with **temporary work visas** to gain access to **residence authorization** if they secure a new job during their stay. This measure is intended to enhance job security and integration for immigrants in Portugal.

Socialistas querem que empresas tratem processos de recrutamento de trabalhadores estrangeiros com a AIMA e esta se articule com consulados. Prioridade a quem der casa, formação e aulas de português.

Traffic Disruption in Madeira: Hotel Workers Protest Causes Police Intervention

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Traffic Blocked During Hotel Workers' Protest

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Other Latest News

Iniciativa Liberal's National Convention: Key Insights on Leadership and Growth

Bangladeshi Community in Lisbon's Arroios Supports No New Mosque in Mouraria

Who Will Lead Portugal's Iniciativa Liberal? Meet the Contenders: Rui Rocha vs Rui Malheiro

Why Lisbon's Metro System Is Struggling: Daily Failures and Future Improvements

Parliament Approval Needed for MP Miguel Arruda's Hearing in Theft Case

Government Shifts Funding for Algarve Desalination and Water Projects to New Climate Program

New Proposal for Immigrant Work Visas: Quick Meetings with Employment Institute in Portugal

Other Latest News

Iniciativa Liberal's National Convention: Key Insights on Leadership and Growth

Bangladeshi Community in Lisbon's Arroios Supports No New Mosque in Mouraria

Who Will Lead Portugal's Iniciativa Liberal? Meet the Contenders: Rui Rocha vs Rui Malheiro

Why Lisbon's Metro System Is Struggling: Daily Failures and Future Improvements

Parliament Approval Needed for MP Miguel Arruda's Hearing in Theft Case

Government Shifts Funding for Algarve Desalination and Water Projects to New Climate Program

New Proposal for Immigrant Work Visas: Quick Meetings with Employment Institute in Portugal