Government prepared for “extraordinary solutions” to support firefighters

Minister of Internal Administration Luís Neves has assured firefighter associations that the government is prepared for “extraordinary solutions” to support them this year.

Talking on the sidelines of the 100-year anniversary of Lousada volunteer firefighters (Porto district), Neves told firefighter associations generally that they “can rest easy” regarding any increase in expenses during the wildfire season, because the “government is prepared to consider other extraordinary solutions” for funding.

“The associations can rest easy and, if we feel that, given the potential for major wildfires, there is (a) significant expense, the government is prepared to consider other extraordinary solutions that can provide reassurance to those who need to incur those costs,” he said.

The minister who has been frank about the dangers this wildfire season poses, said it will not because of money that the “fight — in this case, against the calamity of wildfires — will cease to be carried out with the utmost rigour, with all available means, and with full commitment.”

Neves was talking as today’s most concerning blaze, in Aljustrel (Beja district) continues to see road closures and a lot of more work ahead before the situation is brought under control.

Source: SIC Notícias

Natasha Donn

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.