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## Major Update to Scientific Career Statute Approved in Parliament

The **Portuguese Parliament** has approved a government proposal to update the **scientific career statute**, a long-standing demand that has been in the pipeline for **25 years**. The current statute has not seen any revisions since **1999**, and this new proposal will now proceed to discussions in the **Education and Science Committee** before its final implementation in **2025**.

In addition to the government's proposal, revisions from the **Socialist Party** and the **Left Bloc** were also approved, each presenting different approaches to the statute. The **scientific research career statute** has been under review since 2023, when the previous government initiated a framework for a new statute that was halted due to the resignation of the former Prime Minister.

The current proposal is built upon the previous framework left by the Socialist government. **Ana Paiva**, the Secretary of State for Science, emphasized that the intention is to **build upon existing foundations** rather than dismantle them. She noted that the existing statute is **outdated** and fails to meet the current needs of the national scientific system, advocating for the **empowerment of youth in science, innovation, and entrepreneurship**.

### Key Changes to the Statute

One significant change proposed is that scientists will now have the ability to manage **startups** or provide consultancy services stemming from their research. The government's plan indicates that the application of the scientific career rules will be **optional** for private institutions, allowing non-profit entities to bypass certain career progression and hiring criteria, which has raised concerns about **job security** and **performance evaluation**.

However, there is a safeguard: the application of the scientific career statute may be mandated by the **public funding project**, as stipulated by the **Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)**. The Socialist Party's proposal also supports optional application for private entities, while the Left Bloc insists on mandatory application.

The government, represented by **Fernando Alexandre**, believes that this new statute will address **job insecurity** and promote **stability** and **predictability** for PhD holders and their research lines. The new statute aims to replace a 25-year-old framework that has become obsolete, a promise reiterated by every government since the **Passos Coelho administration** (2011-2015).

### Future Prospects for Scientific Careers

In the coming two years, the scientific career could see a boost with the integration of **1,500 researchers** under the **FCT-Tenure program**, which financially supports the hiring of PhD holders in higher education and research centers for up to six years. This integration will be divided between teaching and scientific research careers. The first edition of this program concluded successfully with **1,104 positions** awarded, and an additional **400 positions** are expected in the second edition in **2025**.

Historically, the recruitment of scientists has relied heavily on research grants and temporary contracts funded by the FCT. In the recent parliamentary session, a proposal from the Socialist Party was also approved, urging the government to open competitions for hiring PhDs for the scientific career at the FCT, aiming to address the **disparities** in **salary and contractual conditions** for doctoral staff within the institution.

Actualização do diploma, em vigor há 25 anos, era reivindicação de cientistas e sindicatos há vários anos. Estatuto será agora discutido na especialidade antes de ser aplicado definitivamente.

Portugal's Scientific Career Statute Overhaul: A Game Changer for Researchers?

## Overview of Heat-Related Mortality in Alentejo
The **Alentejo region**, known for its warm climate, has been experiencing an alarming increase in heat-related mortality due to climate change. This study investigates historical patterns of heat-related deaths from **1980 to 2015** and projects future impacts through **2100**.

### Methods Employed
Using a **case time series design**, researchers analyzed the relationship between daily mortality rates and mean temperatures across Alentejo's four subregions. The analysis included data from **May to September** and took into account greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5).

### Key Findings
- **Minimum Mortality Temperature (MMT)**: The study identified an MMT of **19.0 °C**, noting that mortality risks increase significantly when temperatures exceed this threshold.
- **Exponential Increase in Risk**: At extreme temperatures, such as **36.6 °C**, the risk of mortality surged by **413%**.
- **Heatwave Impact**: The **2003 heatwave** alone accounted for over **5,296 deaths**, highlighting the severe impacts of extreme heat events.
- **Future Projections**: Without adaptive measures, heat-related mortality could rise by up to **15.88%** by 2100 under a no-mitigation scenario. However, implementing mitigation strategies could limit this increase to **6.61%**.

### Implications for Health Policy
The findings emphasize the urgent need for **protective health policies** to mitigate the risks associated with heat exposure and to safeguard vulnerable populations in the region. Continuous monitoring and adaptation strategies are critical as climate change intensifies.

### Conclusion
The research underscores the **growing threat** of climate change on public health in Alentejo, necessitating immediate action to prevent further loss of life as temperatures continue to rise.

The increased severity of extreme weather and anticipated climate change has intensified heat stress-related mortality worldwide. This study examines the historical short-term effects of heat on mortality in Alentejo, Portugal’s warmest region, and projects it up to the end of the century. Using data from 1980 to 2015 during warm seasons (May-September), the association between daily mortality by all-causes and mean temperature was examined following a case time series design, applied at both regional and subregional scales. Projections for daily temperatures were obtained from regional climate models and greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5). We also examined temporal shifts in mortality considering potential long-term and seasonal adaptative responses to heat. We then quantified the yearly effects of heat by calculating absolute and relative excess mortality from 1980 to 2015, specifically during the heatwave of 2003 (July 27 to August 15), and in future projections at 20-year intervals through 2100. The analysis revealed a significant rise in mortality risk at temperatures exceeding a minimum mortality temperature (MMT) of 19.0&nbsp;°C, with an exponential trend and delayed effects lasting up to 5 days. The risk increased by 413% at the maximum extreme temperature of 36.6&nbsp;°C. From 1980 to 2015, 2.32% of total deaths, equating to over 5,296 deaths, were heat-associated. No significant shifts over time were noted in the population’s response to heat. Future projections, without adaptation and demographic changes, show a potential increase in mortality by 15.88% under a “no mitigation policy” scenario by 2100, while mitigation measures could limit the rise to 6.61%. Results underscore the urgent need for protective health policies to reduce regional population vulnerability and prevent premature heat-related deaths across the century.

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

## Major Agreement Reached

Portugal and Spain have reached a significant agreement allowing the **Algarve region** to draw water from the **Guadiana River**. This initiative aims to combat one of the most detrimental phenomena affecting the Algarve, particularly during times of drought.  

![Guadiana River](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/image-1580.png/w_1200,c_limit/)

## Why This Matters

The agreement is crucial for ensuring a sustainable water supply in the Algarve, which has faced increasing challenges due to climate change and water scarcity. The ability to access the Guadiana's water will significantly enhance the region's resilience against drought conditions.

![Agreement Impact](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/sic-noticias-fsec-vp-rgb.png/w_1200,c_limit/)

As part of this deal, both countries have committed to collaborative efforts in managing water resources effectively, ensuring that the Algarve can continue to thrive despite environmental challenges. 

![Water Supply](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/seta-preta-2.png/w_1200,c_limit/)  

This agreement not only addresses immediate water supply needs but also sets a precedent for future cooperation between Portugal and Spain in managing shared resources.  

![Future Cooperation](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/seta-preta-3.png/w_1200,c_limit/)

Portugal e Espanha chegaram a acordo e a região algarvia vai poder recorrer ao Guadiana para combater um dos fenómenos mais nefastos que tem assolado o Algarv

Portugal and Spain Seal Agreement: Guadiana Water to Flow into Algarve Reservoirs

### Major Urban Development in Lisbon
VIC Properties has received the green light for the **rehabilitation of 30 hectares** at the former **Matinha Gas Factory**, promising to bring around **2,000 new homes** to Lisbon, alongside **120,000 m² of green spaces**, a new school, recreational areas, offices, and retail spaces, all part of a **€2 billion investment**.  

### City Council Approval
The Lisbon City Council has approved the **Execution Unit** for Matinha and the corresponding Urbanization Contract, enabling VIC Properties to initiate the redevelopment of this significant area. This project marks one of the **largest residential and mixed-use real estate projects** in Portugal's history.  

### Project Features
The approved plan includes approximately **2,000 new homes**, **120,000 m² of green spaces**, and dedicated leisure facilities, as well as **65,000 m² for services and retail**, and a new school to serve the community.  

### Job Creation and Funding
Acquired by VIC Properties in June 2019, this project will create **3,000 direct jobs** during the construction phase, with funding sourced entirely from private capital.  

### Revitalizing an Abandoned Site
Once a thriving industrial area, the Matinha site has been neglected for over **25 years**, severing the connection between the **Eastern Riverside Zone** and central Lisbon. This redevelopment aims to reintegrate this area into the city, creating a **dynamic and modern neighborhood**.  

### Environmental Sustainability
As part of the redevelopment, the old gas factory site will undergo **decontamination**, with the first phase completed in 2021. The project aims to establish an **energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly community**, aligning with the urban planning model of the 'City of 15 Minutes'.  

### VIC Properties' Commitment
The Matinha project is part of VIC Properties' pioneering role in revitalizing the area over the past six years, which includes the successful **Prata Riverside Village**, designed by Renzo Piano. With completion expected in **2026**, the Prata project has introduced **830 new homes** and **26,000 m² of commercial and leisure spaces**.  

### Transforming Lisbon's Urban Landscape
João Cabaça, co-founder and CEO of VIC Properties, expressed pride in leading this significant transformation, stating it will reconnect this important area with the **Tejo River** and create a vibrant new neighborhood in Lisbon.

VIC Properties recebe luz verde para a reabilitação dos 30 hectares da antiga Fábrica de Gás da Matinha que trará a Lisboa cerca de 2.000 novas habitações, espaços verdes, escola, zonas de lazer, escritórios e retalho, num investimento de 2,0 mil milhões de euros.

Lisbon's Matinha Project: A €2 Billion Transformation of an Abandoned Industrial Site

## Pedro Nuno Santos Expresses Anger Over Police Operation

The **Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS)**, **Pedro Nuno Santos**, has voiced feelings of **sadness** and **anger** regarding a police operation that took place on Thursday afternoon in the **Martim Moniz** area of **Lisbon**, which resulted in the arrest of two individuals. During a session at the **Assembly of the Republic**, Santos criticized the operation carried out by the **PSP** (Public Security Police), stating it is unrelated to **security issues** but rather to **perceptions**.

Santos stated, "**I feel sad as a politician and angry with our government's actions**. The operation yesterday has nothing to do with insecurity, as the Prime Minister suggests. It is about perceptions." He acknowledged that while **preventive actions** are provided for in the **internal security law**, they must meet specific conditions, particularly **proportionality**.

He further expressed, "**We have legitimate reasons to doubt the legality of that operation**. It is unimaginable that such an operation, where dozens of people were pressed against the wall, could occur in other areas or cities in the country." The PS plans to summon the Minister of Internal Administration, **Margarida Blasco**, and the National Director of the PSP, **Luís Carrilho**, to the Assembly to explain the justifications for the operation.

## Criticism of Repressive Culture

Santos also criticized what he perceives as a **repressive culture** emerging in Portugal, particularly targeting the **immigrant community**. He emphasized, "It is crucial for Portuguese citizens to realize that if a **repressive and intimidating culture** takes root in Portugal, today it affects immigrants, and tomorrow it could affect all Portuguese. The actions from yesterday signaled to younger generations to fear those who are different."

He reiterated that such police operations do not enhance the **sense of security** but rather undermine it. "**Portugal is an open and tolerant country, a nation of emigrants**. If we advocate for the integration of Portuguese abroad, we must respect those living and working in Portugal."

## Political Repercussions

Santos characterized the current government as the **"most extremist"** in the last several decades of democracy, insisting the country needs a government focused on addressing **real issues** rather than **imaginary ones**. He accused the Prime Minister and the Mayor of Lisbon of fostering a **climate of insecurity**.

### Isabel Moreira's Strong Reaction

**Isabel Moreira**, another PS deputy, described the police operation as **"unacceptable in a democratic regime"** and called for the hearing of the Minister and the PSP director. During a parliamentary debate on a government proposal to increase penalties for assaults on security forces, the police operation in Martim Moniz was raised by multiple parties, including PS, **Chega**, **BE**, **PCP**, and **CDS-PP**.

Moreira condemned the police's heavy-handed approach, stating, "We witnessed unimaginable images in a democracy. A strong police presence pressed citizens against the wall, searching them. This is unacceptable in a democratic regime."

The PS has formally requested to hear the Minister of Internal Administration and the PSP director regarding the gravity of the situation and the denial of the rule of law, emphasizing that security should be inclusive for all citizens, rejecting any notion of **"first-class and second-class citizens."**

Secretário-geral do PS diz ter dúvidas sobre legalidade da operação policial e acusa o primeiro-ministro de alimentar "clima de insegurança". PS vai chamar Margarida Blasco ao Parlamento.

Outrage in Lisbon: Pedro Nuno Santos Condemns Police Operation in Martim Moniz as 'Extremist'

## Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Hit by Russian Attack

The **Portuguese embassy in Kiev** was struck during a **Russian missile attack** on Friday, as confirmed by **Paulo Rangel**, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Thankfully, there have been **no reported injuries**. The Portuguese government has expressed its intention to file a **formal protest** with Moscow.

![Related Image](https://cdn-images.rtp.pt/icm/noticias/images/f9/f9160fdd51e1cbb6b10c21ec836878c3?w=860&q=90&rect=0,174,1500,822)
*Image Credit: Sergey Dolzhenko - EPA*

### Damage Assessment
The damage to the embassy was described as **minor**, with broken glass and damaged doors. Rangel emphasized that this incident should be addressed **diplomatically**.

In addition to the Portuguese embassy, **diplomatic missions from Argentina, Albania, and Montenegro** were also affected, as multiple diplomatic facilities are located within the same building.

### Diplomatic Response
**Rangel condemned the attack**, stating, "This is highly condemnable. Any attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine deserves our condemnation. However, it is absolutely unacceptable for there to be attacks that impact or target diplomatic facilities."

He also mentioned that the **Chargé d'Affaires of the Russian Federation** was summoned to the Ministry since the ambassador is not in Lisbon, to present the **formal protest**. According to Rangel, it is **unacceptable** by all international diplomatic rules for there to be impacts or targets on diplomatic missions in Ukraine's capital.

### Security Measures
Rangel reassured the public that the **security** of the embassy has always been ensured with **systematic reinforcements**. He noted that over the past three years, embassy staff have occasionally needed to **work remotely** due to safety concerns, highlighting the ongoing **risks** involved.

"It is clear that under no circumstances can we tolerate impacts or targeting of any diplomatic facility of any country," he asserted.

This stance reflects **Portugal's position towards the Russian Federation**, with further actions anticipated at a higher diplomatic level in due time.

A embaixada de Portugal em Kiev foi um dos edifícios atingidos pelo ataque russo desta sexta-feira com recurso a mísseis balísticos, sem notícia de feridos, confirmou à RTP o ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros, Paulo Rangel. O Governo manifestou a intenção de apresentar um protesto formal a Moscovo.


Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

The **Humans Before Borders Collective (HuBB)** condemned a police operation carried out on Thursday, December 20, in **Martim Moniz**, Lisbon, labeling it a **racist attack** against migrants frequenting the area. The collective criticized the government's tendency to link migration with **criminality**, asserting that such operations exacerbate tensions and contribute to discrimination. Meanwhile, the **PSP (Public Security Police)** defended the legitimacy of their actions, stating that they are necessary to maintain order in the city.

Movimento social condenou a operação policial que bloqueou a Rua do Benformoso em Lisboa. Colectivo HuBB acusa Governo de “colar a migração à criminalidade”. PSP reitera legitimidade da operação.

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Other Latest News

Portugal's Scientific Career Statute Overhaul: A Game Changer for Researchers?

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

Portugal and Spain Seal Agreement: Guadiana Water to Flow into Algarve Reservoirs

Lisbon's Matinha Project: A €2 Billion Transformation of an Abandoned Industrial Site

Outrage in Lisbon: Pedro Nuno Santos Condemns Police Operation in Martim Moniz as 'Extremist'

Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

Police Operation in Martim Moniz Sparks Outrage: Accusations of Racism by Humans Before Borders Collective

Other Latest News

Portugal's Scientific Career Statute Overhaul: A Game Changer for Researchers?

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

Portugal and Spain Seal Agreement: Guadiana Water to Flow into Algarve Reservoirs

Lisbon's Matinha Project: A €2 Billion Transformation of an Abandoned Industrial Site

Outrage in Lisbon: Pedro Nuno Santos Condemns Police Operation in Martim Moniz as 'Extremist'

Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

Police Operation in Martim Moniz Sparks Outrage: Accusations of Racism by Humans Before Borders Collective