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Portugal safety and security report Wednesday 20^th March 2024

Good morning. Yesterday the World Meteorlogical Organisation (WMO) released its Report and it makes sombre reading.

The WMO warns that heat waves, floods, droughts, forest fires and the rapid intensification of tropical cyclones are sowing “misery and chaos”, disrupting the daily lives of millions of people and causing economic losses worth several billion dollars, warns the World Meteorological Organization. Record ocean temperatures, rising sea levels and retreating glaciers in 2023 culminated a decade that was the hottest ever, taking the planet “to the brink of the abyss”, the UN warned this Tuesday.

A new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a United Nations agency, shows that records have been broken, and in some cases “pulverized,” in terms of greenhouse gas levels, surface temperatures, heat content and ocean acidification, sea level rise, extension of the Antarctic ice sheet and retreat of glaciers.

The planet is “on the verge of collapse” and “pollution caused by fossil fuels is causing unprecedented climate chaos”, warned UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “There is still time to throw a lifeline to people and the planet” said António Guterres, stating that it is necessary to act now.

The long-term increase in global temperature is due to the increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which reached record levels in 2022. And she also left a warning: “The global meteorological community is warning the entire world and sounding the alarm: we are on red alert.” The full press release can be read here: https://wmo.int/news/media-centre/climate-change-indicators-reached-record-levels-2023-wmo

We are also in Portugal at present experiencing dust from the Sahara which will be us for at least well into the weekend. Although this is a moderately high concentration it is not close extreme levels we experienced in 2022 when the sky was almost orange in some places. We will continue to monitor.

Despite this Portugal is among the 20 countries in the world with the best air quality, according to a list released yesterday that analyses the air of 134 countries. The analysis, for 2023, is part of the 6th Annual Report on Air Quality in the World, carried out by IQAir, a Swiss technology organization whose mission is to empower people, organizations and governments to improve air quality. For the results now released, in some cases worrying, IQAir used data from 30,000 air quality monitoring stations in 7,812 locations in 134 countries, territories and regions. In last place, in position 134, comes Bangladesh, followed by Pakistan, India, Tajikistan and Burkina Faso. You can read the full press release following this introduction.

For those of you in the Algarve I hope you are able to attend the Albufeira Civil Protection Knowledge Fair which is being held on the 21st, 22nd and 23rd of March 2024. There will be a diverse range of activities and will take place at the EMA – Espaço Multiusos de Albufeira, (next Lidl supermarket) from 10am to 7pm.

Safe Communities Portugal will be making a presentation of our work at the fair on Friday 22^nd March at 2pm. This will be in English and I hope that you are able to attend. I can assure you that it will be an informative session with plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

In addition to the presentations those visiting have access to the Exhibition of Equipment and Resources for Civil Protection Agents and Cooperating Entities, the Virtual Risk Room, the Algarve Seismic and Tsunami Risk Study Simulator, the Crash Simulator for Children and Young people, Tornado and Volcano Simulator and visiting the GNR Cavalry. Highlighted is the possibility of participating in various screenings and awareness-raising actions, namely on smoking cessation, blood pressure, blood glucose and oximetry, oral health, diabetes, prevention, bathing safety, rescue and relief, awareness-raising action on the Asian mosquito, prevention accidents, first aid, reading labels, among others.

So you can see there are good reasons to attend.

Our team look forward to meeting you at the event.

News.

2023 World Air Quality Report

Steinach, Switzerland, March 19, 2024 (Lusa) – Portugal is among the 20 countries in the world with the best air quality, according to a list released today that analyses the air of 134 countries.

The analysis, for 2023, is part of the 6th Annual Report on Air Quality in the World, carried out by IQAir, a Swiss technology organization whose mission is to empower people, organizations and governments to improve air quality.

For the results now released, in some cases worrying, IQAir used data from 30,000 air quality monitoring stations in 7,812 locations in 134 countries, territories and regions.

In last place, in position 134, comes Bangladesh, followed by Pakistan, India, Tajikistan and Burkina Faso.

To prepare the list, the organization’s main indicator is the so-called fine particles (PM2.5), measured in micrograms per cubic meter. They are linked in particular to combustion engines and have significant impacts on human health.

According to the report, Bangladesh had 79.9 micrograms per cubic meter of annual average, more than 15 times higher than that approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), which recommends a maximum of five micrograms.

In the European Union, the maximum permitted levels are 25 micrograms.

On the map of countries, on a colour scale where the best positions are in green, there are more than 90 with a less good classification.

Russia (10 micrograms, in position 94) is the first nation in green, followed by others such as Spain (9.9 micrograms), France in position 99 (9.5 micrograms), and the United Kingdom (7 .7 micrograms). Portugal, in position 118, accounts for 6.8 micrograms.

The best classification goes to French Polynesia, in place 134, with 3.2 micrograms of fine particles per cubic meter.

This means that only 16 countries/regions have better air than Portugal, in the list now released.

By capital cities, New Delhi, in India, is the most polluted, followed by Dhaka, in Bangladesh, and Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso. Rome, Berlin and Paris are on the yellow list and Lisbon appears on the green list, ahead of other green capitals such as London, Madrid, Copenhagen or Luxembourg.

San Juan (Puerto Rico) appears as the least polluted, followed by Wellington, Canberra and Reykjavik.

If only the European continent is taken into account (represented by 2,006 cities in 43 countries), Bosnia-Herzegovina appears as the most polluted country, while the least polluted is Iceland (average concentration of 04 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter of air). In Europe Portugal is in 37th place out of 43 (1 being the best and 43 being the worst), just behind Iceland, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Norway and Ireland.

In terms of European cities, last year only 7% (135) reached the WHO values, including all cities in Iceland. Cities in Portugal are classified as green, but not at the value recommended by the WHO.

Among the main conclusions of the global report, it is highlighted that only seven countries complied with the WHO’s annual directive (Australia, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Iceland, Mauritius and New Zealand), that a third of the population in Africa does not have access to data on air quality, that PM2.5 concentrations have increased in almost all Southeast Asian countries, and that the 10 most polluted cities in the world are in Asia.

Begusarai, India, was the most polluted metropolitan area of 2023, with India being the country of the four most polluted cities in the world.

The European Union should soon have a new law on the matter, and a new directive on ambient air quality should be voted on in April by the European Parliament.

Air pollution is responsible for around 300,000 premature deaths per year in Europe, making it the main environmental threat to health, warns the European environmental organization EEB.

It contributes, he says, to health problems that include heart attacks, strokes, respiratory diseases, diabetes, dementia, cancer and delays in children’s cognitive development.

The Algarve Report Wednesday 20th March 2024

by Mike Evans

A very good day to you all and we start this report with the latest in the water situation in the Algarve, or the lack of it!

Despite the region enjoying a small amount of rain that fell in the first week of this month, the dams and reservoir levels in the Algarve remain low, dangerously low . In fact there are some who fear that the tourism market will be affected if things don’t improve. Despite waking up late to a problem that had been predicted and announced for years, authorities – national, regional and local -, businesspeople and their associations, are already taking measures to ensure water savings and more efficient water management. , at least as far as urban consumption is concerned. Applications from the municipalities of Tavira, Olhão and Alcoutim have already been approved, within the scope of Measure SM1 – Reducing Water Losses in the Urban Sector, included in the Recovery and Resilience (PRR), announced the Algarve Intermunicipal Community (AMAL).

The three applications represent a total investment of €6,576,166.88 and concern “the renewal of sections of pipelines with high levels of real water losses”.

The works to be carried out will allow the municipalities to obtain significant values of water efficiency, as they will rehabilitate 32.5 kilometres of network, allowing a reduction of 281,465 m3/year in the volume of real losses», according to AMAL.

With these three Notices, a total of 33 applications have been approved in 13 Algarve municipalities, corresponding to 25.83 million euros and 95 contracts and acquisition of services, and, in the vast majority of cases, the works are already underway.

The applications presented are analysed and approved by a Management Committee, which includes elements from the Algarve Intermunicipal Community (AMAL), the Administration of the Algarve Hydrographic Region – Portuguese Environment Agency (ARH-Algarve/ APA) and the University of Algarve.

Another initiative recently launched by the Algarve Tourism sector is a scheme to offer accommodation suppliers a “Save Water” certificate. The objective is to promote water savings in hotels and in the tourism sector in general, offering, in return, a seal that recognizes the effort and contribution of companies to the regional goal of reducing water consumption in the region by 15%. urban sector.

The “Save Water” seal, which will attest that tourist companies in the Algarve are playing their role in the fight against water waste and in favour of the efficient use of this precious resource, was presented this Monday, March 18th, at the headquarters of the Algarve Tourism Region, in Faro, in a session attended by Nuno Fazenda, Secretary of State for Tourism.

To obtain the seal and the water efficiency certification it confers, partner companies commit to adopting, in a phased manner, 30 water saving measures, from a list of 60. If companies have already implemented measures included in the list, they can be included in the action plan, albeit with limitations.

According to André Gomes, president of Turismo do Algarve, what is at stake are «water efficiency measures that were worked on in a very pressing way, both from a technical point of view – here with a great contribution from the Energy Agency (Adene) – , or with sector representatives. Tourist accommodation companies have been involved since December, in many hours of working meetings with Adene, the partner association of Turismo do Algarve and Turismo de Portugal in this program.

At issue are water efficiency measures linked to devices (taps, shower heads and others), alternative sources, irrigation, swimming pools, equipment, cleaning, behaviour and management and maintenance.

The 60 measures are divided into priority ones, which are those that “can give results in a more pressing and more immediate way”, which are 18 in total, and structuring ones (42), which are “those that will take longer to be implemented», according to André Gomes.

The latter, as they are more complex, are also those for which support mechanisms were created, to a large extent, by Turismo de Portugal to help companies.

This support is divided into two lines, according to Carlos Abade, president of Turismo de Portugal: one dedicated exclusively to the Algarve, with an allocation of 10 million euros, and another nationwide, with 50 million euros, but which has extra advantages for companies that implement projects to promote water efficiency in the Algarve.

Exclusively for projects to be implemented in the Algarve region, the “+ Algarve Water Efficiency” line was created, to which micro, small and medium-sized companies can apply, as long as they are hotel establishments, rural tourism establishments or campsites and of caravanning.

In this line, which will be open continuously from April 1st until the grant ends, each company can submit an application with a maximum value of 50 thousand euros, benefiting from 50% non-refundable support.

Let’s hope that these and other initiatives are enough to make sure tourism is not affected over the summer season.

Now a look at some of the other news around the region.

GNR seized hundreds of doses of cocaine and heroin

Hundreds of doses of cocaine and heroin and weapons were seized in the Algarve by the GNR, between the 11th and 17th of March, in actions carried out in different parts of the Algarve, this security force revealed.

According to the most recent weekly report on the operation of the Faro Territorial Command of the GNR, last week 47 people were arrested, 13 for driving without a legal licence, 12 for driving under the influence of alcohol and two for drug trafficking.

In total, 386 doses of cocaine, 162 doses of heroin, a revolver, a pistol, a knife and various ammunition were seized.

In the traffic inspection, 596 infractions were detected, of which the GNR points out that 193 were due to speeding, 61 related to anomalies in the lighting and signalling systems, 55 due to lack of mandatory periodic inspection, 28 due to improper use of the cell phone during the exercise. driving, 14 due to lack of or incorrect use of a seat belt and/or child restraint system and seven due to lack of civil liability insurance.

In terms of accident rates, there were 124 accidents, resulting in one serious injury and 28 minor injuries.

PSP makes a number of Arrests across the Region.

Eight people were arrested by the PSP, for the crimes of possession of a prohibited weapon, resistance and coercion, metal theft, disobedience, damage, driving without a legal licence and driving while drunk, in the cities of Faro, Portimão, Olhão , Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António.

According to the District Command of the PSP of Faro, two of these arrests stand out, which occurred in the city centre of Faro, following preventive policing actions focused on that area of the city.

In this context, a suspect was approached who was carrying a bladed weapon, according to him for defence in case of need, and was detained and the weapon seized.

At another point, while identifying a suspect for selling drugs to passers-by, he tried to escape, attacking a police officer, for which he was immediately arrested.

On the other hand, in the city of Tavira, a 37-year-old suspect was arrested for stealing copper wire.

This arrest occurred following a call reporting a possible theft in progress at a construction site. According to the PSP, “the rapid mobilisation of police resources allowed the suspect to be intercepted, as he was preparing to leave the scene, with around 6.5 kilos of stolen copper wire in his possession”.

In the last 48 hours, during road inspection actions, three arrests were made for driving without a legal licence and one arrest under the influence of alcohol.

Fire consumes warehouse in Moncarapacho

A fire consumed a warehouse with civil construction materials located in Moncarapacho, in the municipality of Olhão, this morning, with no injuries reported , a Civil Protection source told Lusa. The alert was given at 00:29 for a fire at a construction site.

“A warehouse with construction material burned down, with no injuries reported,” explained a source from the Algarve Sub-Regional Emergency and Civil Protection Command .

During the early hours of the morning, until 7:00 am, the incident mobilised 20 firefighters and GNR operatives, with the support of 10 vehicles.

Man detained in Portimão in possession of two knives and an axe

The PSP arrested a man on Wednesday, March 13, in Portimão for possession of a prohibited weapon, the police force said on Thursday.

The arrest occurred following “a call for disorder”, in which a man allegedly wielded a knife, according to details from the PSP.

Police resources were mobilised and, upon arriving at the scene, they identified the suspect. Two large knives and an axe were detected in his possession, which he claimed were for “self-defence”. The suspect was immediately arrested and the weapons seized, and was presented to the judicial authorities this Thursday.

Judiciary Police arrested rapist on the run

The Judiciary Police (PJ) arrested, this Thursday, March 14th, in Loulé , a 46-year-old man, in compliance with an arrest warrant issued by the Judicial Court of Faro, following a sentence of 5 years. and 6 months for committing a crime of rape.

The man was present for judicial interrogation, and the most serious measure of coercion was applied to him, preventive detention, which would be changed during the investigation phase to “obligation to remain in the residence subject to electronic surveillance”. The individual disregarded the measure, beginning a long period of escape that ended this Thursday, with his location and detention in the municipality of Loulé.

The detainee will be brought before the judicial authority to execute the preventive detention measure.

And finally we bring you a warning from the PSP!

The PSP have launched an alert on social media about a fraud scheme related to the purchase and sale of cars, on online platforms. This scheme, which has been gaining ground, is based on the cloning of legitimate vehicle sales advertisements.

According to the PSP Lisbon Metropolitan Command, the fraudster’s modus operandi consists of copying vehicle sale advertisements, deceiving both the real seller and potential buyers. The criminal selects ads on popular platforms such as OLX, Facebook and Standvirtual and contacts advertisers, trying to obtain as much information about the vehicle in question.

Subsequently, the fraudster replicates the advertisement, using the same photos and characteristics of the vehicle, but with a sales price considerably lower than the actual value. This tactic aims to attract potential buyers by offering an attractive price.

The next step is to request that payment be made by bank transfer, indicating a NIB associated with an account controlled by the criminal. Once the transfer has been made, there is an intermediary who receives the money into your bank account and immediately withdraws the amount in cash. This intermediary receives a 20% commission on the amount transferred, while the rest is handed over to those truly responsible for the fraud.

This type of fraud has been worrying the authorities, due to its increasing incidence and the damage it causes to both legitimate sellers and potential buyers. The PSP advises users of online platforms to be alert to this type of scheme, carefully checking the legitimacy of the advertisements and avoiding making advance payments by bank transfer.

In the event of any suspicion of fraud, the PSP recommends that citizens contact the authorities immediately, in order to prevent more people from becoming victims of this type of crime.

Have a good week until the next time Stay Safe/.

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 13^th March 2024

Good morning. Certainly it is nice to see some spring like weather after the storms and snow in some parts of the mainland during the last week. The highlight for the records will be that it was the first time that the IPMA has raised a maximum red warning for snow the criteria being snow fall over xxx

It is however still cold overnight particularly in the north, so particular care needs to be taken in the use of heating equipment and wood burning fire. News yesterday was that three people suffered minor injuries and were left homeless following a gas cylinder explosion which completely destroyed their home. The fire took place in Avintes, Vila Nova de Gaia. An explosion from a gas cylinder, placed in the kitchen of a house, caused the fire, which completely destroyed the house, despite the prompt intervention of firefighters.

Although the exact cause is unknown this is a reminder to regularly check your cylinders and gas tubes if you use them. How long has it been since you’ve checked or replaced the tube that takes gas from the bottle to the stove or BBQ? There are rules and concerning the use of gas cylinders as such equipment are the causes every year for many accidents and risks in kitchens and housing. For instance flexible rubber tubes must comply with the requirements set out in standard NP 4436 and must not exceed 1.5 meters in length. And are valid for five years from the date of manufacture and must be assembled so as to: not come into contact with the hot parts of the equipment; not subject to the action of flames or combustion products and not cross the back of the stove. Ensure your safety and that of everyone who lives under your roof, follow the rules described and check the pipe connection regularly.

Some good news is that after a week with rain and snow all over the country, the reservoirs increased by 2.7%, are now at 87% of total capacity, corresponding to 11498 hm3.The soils are saturated, and reservoirs in the Algarve continue to slowly increase their storage levels. This means we must continue with water conservation given the longer term forecasts and the absence of solutions over the next few months.

As part of the celebrations of the International Civil Protection Day, which is celebrated on March 1, all of you interested are invited to participate in the IV Fair of “Civil Protection of Knowledge in Albufeira”. The IV Civil Protection Knowledge Fair, with free entrance, will take place in the Albufeira Multipurpose Space on March 21, 22 and 23, between 10 am and 7 pm (located next to Lidl in Albufeira). It will have demonstrations, lectures, awareness-raising actions, informative sessions, simulators, Virtual Risk Room, screenings, workshops and an exhibition of resources and resources of the Civil Protection Officers, located in the parking lot of the Municipal Canteen. Program in English https://www.safecommunitiesportugal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/lV-Albufeira-Civil-Protection-Knowledge-Fair-English.pdf?

This Event will allow various Civil Protection Agents, as well as Cooperating Entities, including Safe Communities Portugal to present their mission, means and resources, enabling direct contact and interaction with the population. Follow below the direct link to register for the 4th Civil Protection Knowledge Fair 2024 lectures. We count on your precious presence!

For those of you who have with teenagers, please note that the PSP is carrying out awareness-raising actions among school students who are going on final year trips, alerting them to the excessive consumption of alcohol and use of drugs during those trips. The PSP indicates that the “Finalist Trips” operation will run until March 22 across the country, at a time when students in the 3rd cycle of basic education and secondary education undertake travel trips, with Spain being one of the most frequent destinations. The aim is to raise awareness as a way of preventing addictive and risky behaviours associated with final year trips, and which contribute to better knowledge among young people at these ages about the dangers associated with these consumptions.

The PSP advises that students maintain regular contact with their families during the holidays, have fun without committing excesses, travel in a group and do not lose sight of the drink when attending nightlife spaces or any other space with a large crowd of people; do not accept any type of substances from strangers, carry their identification documents and European health card, not to abuse the facilities of the hotels and respect local authorities.

Our team wishes you all the best for the week ahead

News

Union advances with advance notice of strike at TAP

Civil Aviation workers accuse the company of “disrespect”. They will stop overtime work between March 28th and July 30th.

The National Union of Civil Aviation Workers (SINTAC) issued this Tuesday a notice of strike regarding overtime work at TAP between March 28th and July 30th.

In a statement sent to newsrooms, the union structure demands payment of the increases provided for in the new company agreement and accuses the airline of “disrespect”.

SINTAC and TAP granted a company agreement last February, providing for salary increases of between 6% and 10% with retroactive effect to July 2023. Contrary to what happened with other workers, TAP did not fulfil its commitment assumed to make the payments agreed upon in February 2024 processing. Such an omission represents a profound disrespect”, the note reads.

The minimum services “necessary for the safety and maintenance of equipment and facilities” are ensured

Funicular da Graça in Lisbon opened 15 years after construction began

The inauguration was carried out by the Mayor of Lisbon, who highlighted the importance of the work for the residents of Graça and Mouraria, who had been waiting for the funicular since 2009.

The Graça Funicular, which will connect this Lisbon neighbourhood to Mouraria, was inaugurated this Tuesday, 15 years after it began construction, leading to an overrun of the initial budget by 7 million euros. The inauguration was in charge of the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, who highlighted the importance of the work for the residents of Graça and Mouraria, who had been waiting for the funicular since 2009 because the project “was at a standstill”.

“We managed to untie this knot, untie the knot of a problem that Lisbon residents have been waiting for so long and now we will have it here, free of charge, for our Lisbon residents to go up between Mouraria and Graça. It’s a unique moment”, said Carlos Moedas (PSD). Recalling that, 120 years ago, there was an elevator in the area between Graça and Rua da Palma, the mayor highlighted that this work is “unique in the city” and “will serve the people of Lisbon”.

The Graça Funicular will provide the route from Rua dos Lagares, in Mouraria, to the Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen, in front of the Graça church. It is a single route, made up of rails and with only two stops stop at the beginning of each route, with the capacity to transport a maximum of 14 people per trip, in around a minute and a half.

According to Carlos Moedas, trips will initially be free, and will then be paid for, except for Navegante pass holders. “It’s natural that they pay, it’s natural because they have to help the city, those who come from outside will pay”, said Carlos Moedas, flanked by the vice-president of the municipality, Filipe Anacoreta Correia, and the presidents of the parish councils of São Vicente and Santa Maria Maior, Natalina Moura and Miguel Coelho, respectively.

Initially planned to be managed by Carris, the Graça Funicular will be managed by the Lisbon Mobility and Parking Company — EMEL, and will operate every day between 9:00 am and 9:00 pm.

Azores Situation Report Wednesday 13th March 2024

Body of man found submerged near Porto dos Carneiros on the island of São Miguel

The body of a man was found today in the water trapped in the rocks near Porto dos Carneiros, in the municipality of Lagoa, on the island of São Miguel, in the Azores, the National Maritime Authority (AMN) announced.

According to AMN, the alert for the occurrence, whose causes are unknown, was given at 09:35 local time (10:35 in Lisbon), to the Lisbon Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC Lisbon), by a fisherman submarine that detected a submerged body.

Following the alert, “the crew from the Ponta Delgada Lifeguard Station and a team of divers from the Ponta Delgada Volunteer Fire Department were immediately called to the scene”.

The source said in a statement that the team of divers collected the body, which was transported on the boat from the Lifeguard Station to Ponta Delgada, “where death was declared by the Health Delegate”.

“The body was later transported by the Ponta Delgada Volunteer Firefighters to the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital,” he added.

There were also members of the local Command of the Ponta Delgada Maritime Police, the entity that took charge of the incident, and the Public Security Police (PSP) at the scene.

Reading of double homicide sentence postponed for the second time.

The reading of the ruling in the case involving a man accused of double homicide, in the Azores, was postponed again today by the Court of São Roque do Pico, which scheduled a new session for Thursday.

The judge who is judging the case, only announced that she had “rejected” the request presented last week by the defence lawyer, in relation to the additional penalty that the court intended to apply to the 61-year-old defendant, accused of having killed two men and burning the bodies next to his residence, in the parish of Candelária, municipality of Madalena do Pico.

The court intended to apply an additional penalty to the suspect and also to his wife, accused of desecrating corpses and possession of a prohibited weapon, of “expulsion from the country”, after serving a prison sentence, a decision that was contested by the suspects’ lawyer .

The reading of the ruling, which was scheduled for last week, was postponed again today for another three days, now so that the court can consider the appeal for rejection.

The defendant in the case, a German national, is suspected of, in September 2022, having killed two men and burning their bodies, when they were visiting some land that they intended to buy, around their house, in Campo Raso, in an area where there are few dwellings.

The detainee, who initially pleaded guilty, later changed his statement, arguing that he had been pressured by the police authorities, now declaring himself innocent of the crimes of qualified homicide, desecration of corpses and possession of a prohibited weapon.

At the time the suspects were arrested, the Judiciary Police announced that “evidence had been collected” that the two missing men had been victims of “murder crimes, with subsequent concealment of the bodies”, with suspicion falling on an individual of foreign nationality, residing in the vicinity of the place where the vehicle used by the victims was parked.

According to that police, during the house searches of the suspect’s residence, “two legal firearms were seized, in addition to several illegally located weapons, namely, a ‘box cutter’ with an attached blade, several daggers and a silencer, compatible with a firearm”.

Preventive arrest for suspect in jewellery theft in São Miguel

A man was held in pre-trial detention on suspicion of stealing watch and jewellery items, valued at more than 10 thousand euros, from a residence in Calhetas, in São Miguel, Azores.

According to the Regional Command of the Public Security Police of the Azores, the 22-year-old suspect was arrested on March 8, after going on the run shortly after the robbery, but several members of the public managed to intercept the man, who ” was later handed over to the PSP”.

The man was accused of the theft of watch and jewellery items, inside a residence, in the parish of Calhetas, in Rabo de Peixe, municipality of Ribeira Grande, on the island of São Miguel, the police reported, revealing that “three watches were recovered and 14 pieces of jewellery (earrings, bracelets, rings and necklaces), with a total value of 10,000 euros”.

The same source said that, after being present at the first judicial interrogation, the man saw the most serious measure of coercion applied, preventive detention.

Algarve Situation Report Wednesday 13th March 2024

A very good day to you all. Well the results are in from the election and it seems that the country has decided a change of government is required to help move the country along to more prosperous times. Meanwhile, according to many commentators the Algarve voters decided in their droves to use the election as a protest about what they feel is forever being overlooked by the national government, and voted for the Right wing Chega party.

Whatever happens in the near future we cannot but feel there will be another election sooner rather than later as the parliament is in a “hung” situation and the likelihood of the government of the day passing any important legislature seems to be unlikely.

According to João Eduardo Martins, professor of Sociology at the Faculty of Economics at UAlg, Chega’s victory seems to show, in his opinion, that Chega ended up catapulting the voice of discontent that existed here in the region and that manifested itself in this way in this electoral act.” Here in the Algarve, the PS has dominated in recent years and there are a series of life expectations of the population that have not been met. Health has deteriorated to an almost unimaginable point, with the lack of doctors in hospitals, with the Pediatrics emergency department closing every other week, operating in Portimão one week, operating in Faro another week, and Obstetrics being the same thing”, he observed.

In addition to a “very degraded” health service, the people of the Algarve have been faced with “a lack of teachers, lack of answers in housing, the increase in the cost of living associated with the spike in inflation, low wages, precariousness and unemployment associated with the main sector of activity that is tourism and three brutal economic crises since the beginning of the 21st century”, the university professor further exemplified.

João Eduardo Martins highlighted that Chega, in addition to winning “the entire district”, also won in six cities – Olhão, Loulé, Albufeira, Lagoa, Silves and Portimão -, some of which are “from the biggest cities in the Algarve”.

It remains to be seen if the changes which will come about in the Algarve with new deputies will mean that the Algarve’s voice is heard again.

Now a look at what else has happened in the past week across the region.

24-year-old man arrested for the crime of domestic violence

The PSP arrested on Thursday, the 7th, in Portimão, a man accused of committing crimes of domestic violence and offences against qualified physical integrity, that security force reported today. According to the PSP, the suspect, aged 24, was previously indicted for crimes of this nature and was even subject to coercive measures.

However, “in view of the reiteration of criminal conduct and the gradual increase in the level of violence used in recent days, victimising several members of their closest family circle, as it proved to be essential for the protection of victims and considering the urgency of intervention, a a warrant for his arrest outside of flagrante delicto, to ensure his immediate appearance in court”, he details. In view of the evidence found, after a hearing in court, the coercion measure of preventive detention was ordered this Friday.

Man dies after being run over in Olhão

A man was fatally run over this Thursday, the 7th, by a light vehicle in Olhão, revealed a source from the Algarve Regional Emergency and Civil Protection Command.

The alert for the incident was received at 2:30 pm, with the emergency services not knowing the age and nationality of the man, who was run over on Avenida 5 de Outubro, said the Civil Protection source.

“It was a collision with a light vehicle, which resulted in a fatal victim,” he said, without providing further details about the circumstances of the accident.The driver of the vehicle involved in the collision “was also assisted by the Emergency Psychological Intervention Unit of INEM [National Institute of Medical Emergency]”, he added.

The source from the Regional Emergency and Civil Protection Command also said that “the PSP Criminal Investigation Brigade was in charge of the incident” to determine the circumstances of the collision.

There were seven vehicles on site with 19 operational personnel, including members of the Olhão Fire Department, INEM and PSP.

Man arrested for pornography of minors in Portimão

The Judiciary Police (PJ) arrested, this Tuesday, in Portimão , a 25-year-old man in flagrante delicto, for the alleged authorship of several crimes of pornography of minors.

According to a statement from the PJ, the complaint originated from international judicial cooperation mechanisms, via the “ National Center for Missing & Exploited Children ”.

As part of the investigations carried out by the Portimão Criminal Investigation Department of the PJ, it was possible to verify that the man held and regularly accessed such content in computerised form. The detainee was presented, Wednesday, for the first judicial interrogation to apply coercive measures.

1.9 million euros donated to social solidarity institutions in the Algarve

In 2023, 73 social solidarity and animal support institutions in the Faro district received more than 1.9 million euros donated by Missão Continente and in food surplus this support totaled 1.8 million euros, the equivalent of more than 527 thousand meals saved.

In 2023, a total of 30.8 million euros in food and non-food products were donated by Missão Continente to 1,097 social solidarity institutions across the country. In relation to food surpluses, that is, all products that, despite no longer having commercial value, are still suitable for consumption, this support totaled 27.4 million euros, the equivalent of more than 7.8 million saved meals.

“There are hundreds of social solidarity institutions and animal welfare associations that are supported in these actions. These donations have been taking place for around 28 years and, year after year, we have been increasing the number of institutions benefiting. In this way, Missão Continente acts positively in two areas that are very relevant to its positioning: it supports those who need it most and creates one of the most efficient ways of combating food waste.” explains Nádia Reis, Director of Communication and Social Responsibility at Continente.

Algarve Wine Tourism Shines at Portuguese Wine Awards

The Grandes Escolhas Awards ceremony took place at the Estoril Congress Centre on March 1, where Algarve Wine Tourism was honoured with the prize for the best “2023 Wine Tourism”.

Algarve Wine Tourism, a new wine route of the region promoted by the Algarve Wine Commission, was awarded the prize for the best 2023 Wine Tourism at the Vinho Grande Escolhas Awards. The ceremony, organised by the publication of the same name, took place at the Estoril Congress Centre on March 1.

The Grandes Escolhas Awards are held every year to celebrate the top achievements in Portugal’s gastronomy and wine tourism industry. Some of the categories featured in this event are awards for top wines, experts, businesses, goods, dining establishments, wineries, and organisations involved in the production and sale of wine in Portugal.

Through Algarve Wine Tourism, you can explore a unique and vibrant wine route across the region. It is promoted by the Algarve’s Wine Commission, the organisation responsible for certifying wine products with a designation of origin in Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, and Tavira, and geographical indication of the Algarve,” said Sara Silva, President of the Board of the Algarve Wine Commission.

Hence, the prestigious “Wine Tourism 2023” trophy validates and enhances the excellence of this route and its products, creating the ideal pairing for a trip to the Algarve that encompasses food, entertainment, history, and sampling the finest Algarve wines. The gala event saw a total of 20 trophies being awarded, with the backing and sponsorship of various official entities and organisations.

Faro imposes limits on opening hours and noise levels

Faro municipal council has approved new noise regulations and opening hours for commercial establishments.

According to the new rules which have been published in the state newspaper Diário da República and are expected to come into effect this month, restaurants, cafés and pastry shops will be able to operate daily until 2am; bars and concert halls until 3am (from Sunday to Wednesday) or 4am (from Thursday to Saturday and on the eve of public holidays); and discos can stay open until 3am (from Sunday to Wednesday) or 5am (from Thursday to Saturday and on the eve of public holidays).

These changes are being made due to the “need to adapt opening hours to the evolution of the municipality’s social reality” and to address cases of excessive noise, the local council says in a statement. “The municipality felt it was important to approve a revision to the regulations that would limit the opening hours of these spaces to avoid exacerbating a number of situations that had already been identified and to help make commercial use compatible with the other urban uses that exist in the Municipal Master Plan, namely residential use,” the council said.

In other words, the municipal authority wants to make sure that residents are not kept up all night by excessive noise from nearby establishments. The council added that the previous regulations had been in force since 2017, in the case of opening hours, and since 2012, in the case of noise levels.

Pharmacies, hospitals, medical centres and veterinary hospitals or clinics, tourist developments or local accommodation, residential facilities for the elderly or petrol stations will be able to operate “permanently” (meaning without any restrictions on opening hours) every day of the week, the local council clarified.

Meanwhile, businesses located in residential buildings will be limited to opening hours between 8am and midnight. However, they may “exceptionally adopt the opening hours set for other establishments if they obtain the prior consent of the building’s owner or a declaration of non-opposition from the condominium.

São Brás adds four new defibrillators to public access network

São Brás de Alportel has increased its number of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) to 11, aiming for quick responses to potential cardiac emergencies.

Previously, two AEDs were installed at the municipal sports pavilion and the municipal swimming pools, along with four in the volunteer fire department’s vehicles.

The four new defibrillators are installed in public spaces: near the José Belchior Viegas secondary school; near the Poeta Bernardo de Passos school and the local sports and leisure; near the municipal market; and also in the historic centre, near town hall, the municipal library and other key buildings. Says the local council, these units are operational and await licensing by the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM). The municipality invested €7,500 (plus VAT) in the rental of these units from Blue Ocean Medical, Lda., and has also invested in the purchase of another defibrillator for the local scouts group, having trained some of its members to use it if necessary during their activities or at events held in the municipality.

This initiative addresses the high occurrence of sudden cardiac deaths nationally, aiming to significantly improve survival rates for cardiac arrests.

Finally a note for your diaries. Safe Communities will be present at the Civil Protection exhibition being held at the Multiusos de Albufeira from the 21 to the 23rd March. Please come along to the exhibition if you are interested in our work and say hello. We hope to see you there!

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 6th March 2024

Good morning everyone. Well it looks like we are having a late winter, with plenty of snow in parts of the north and central regions. Yesterday and today are dryer days but in the next few days there will be adverse weather in many areas, with snow in the mountains and the risk of floods.

This will be caused by cold air masses that are arriving, in addition to feeding the genesis of storms that will affect us during this week (which will probably leave abundant rain). It will cause a sharp drop in temperatures, which will reach values below the average for the season for most of the week. There are various heavy snow forecasts with around 80 centimetres of snow in the Sera da Estrela .There will be ice and frost formation, as well as morning fog in places inland North and Centre. So we can expect weather warnings in addition to the orange level rough seas warning which comes into effect in 10 districts on Thursday.

Needless to say it is important to follow the advice given in these warnings, especially on the roads, which is there for your own safety.

I hope you were able to attend one of the civil protection day events that were held throughout on the country on 1^stMarch. Safe Communities Portugal was at the one held in Quarteira, an event that received many visitors. If you did not, there are plenty more opportunities as throughout the country, during the month of March, the Regional and Sub-regional Emergency and Civil Protection Commands mark the date, promoting, in partnership with the Humanitarian Firefighter Associations, Municipal Civil Protection Services and other Civil Protection Agents, activities for different audiences, such as simulations, exhibitions and/or days of reflection, focusing on a decentralized celebration, closer to the citizen, thus highlighting the crucial role that the local level plays in the national civil protection system and in the coordination of efforts between all agents in order to face increasingly complex challenges.

One of these will be held at the Albufeira Civil Protection headquarters on 21^st, 22^nd and 23^rd March. Safe Communities Portugal will be attending with a display stand and giving a presentation – more details later.

Turning now to fuel management (land cleaning) According to the order published on Feb 27th, inspection of fuel management (land cleaning) in the 991 priority parishes will be carried out between May 1st and 31st on properties adjacent to buildings in rural areas (within a range of 50 meters) and in population clusters. GNR’s “Safe Forest Campaign 2024” operation is already taking place throughout the territory, with a view to guaranteeing the safety of residents, their property and also the forestry heritage.

This month, the phase of monitoring non-compliant spaces and raising awareness among their owners is going on about the mandatory cleaning and maintenance of fuel management lanes. If you have doubts/questions you should check your local GNR Facebook page or your local Camara Municipal FB page or local Junta de Freguesia FB page. All these entities may have relevant information published. Also for any questions, do not hesitate to contact the GNR SEPNA line at number 𝟖𝟎𝟖 𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝟓𝟐𝟎. The up to date information in English can be found here.

Turning now to fraud and scams. The Republican National Guard (GNR) recorded 21,548 fraud crimes in 2023, highlighting the predominance of computer and communications fraud and bank fraud. These numbers, still provisional (but which are not expected to vary much) represent an increase compared to 2022, the year in which 17,969 fraud crimes were recorded.

Monitoring this subject, there does appear to be a number of widespread scams/frauds mainly through text messaging and emails, ranging from AT (tax authority), calls in English from someone pretending to police saying you are under investigation; the purchase and sale of vehicles, property rental fraud, EDP scams etc. There are many of these around and it is important to check carefully before clicking on and links or providing personal information. Remember if an offer appears too good to be true then it is likely a scam!

Our team at Safe Communities wish you a happy and safe week ahead.

News

ANEPC promotes open day for schools and the public – Exhibition of operational resources and equipment (demonstration) March 6th

The National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) is promoting this Wednesday, March 6, an open day for schools and the public.

During this day, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the ANEPC facilities, in Carnaxide, will be open to pre-school students, 1st, 2nd and 3rd cycles of basic education, and to the general public, with an exhibition of operational means and equipment of Firefighters and other civil protection agents and services, highlighting dog team demonstration sessions, search and rescue, extrication techniques, and other awareness-raising actions in the field of civil protection.

The President of ANEPC, Duarte da Costa, will be present at the opening session of the day open to schools and the public, at 10 am, and will welcome all students/visitors.

The initiative is part of the commemorative program for March 1st, Civil Protection Day 2024, an event established at a global level by the International Civil Protection Organization (OIPC) and at a national level by Order of the Minister of Internal Administration (Order no. 6915/2008, of February 21).

Throughout the country, during the month of March, the Regional and Sub-regional Emergency and Civil Protection Commands mark the date, promoting, in partnership with the Humanitarian Firefighter Associations, Municipal Civil Protection Services and other Civil Protection Agents, activities for different audiences, such as simulations, exhibitions and/or days of reflection, focusing on a decentralized celebration, closer to the citizen, thus highlighting the crucial role that the local level plays in the national civil protection system and in the coordination of efforts between all agents in order to face increasingly complex challenges.

In Portugal and around the world, the anniversary aims to raise awareness of the importance of civil protection, in safeguarding human life, property, cultural and environmental heritage in the face of serious accidents and catastrophes, paying tribute to all civil protection agents and promote reflection and dialogue around the risks to which populations and territories are subject, and the role that each of us, citizens, play in the collective effort to create resilient communities.

Mission in the deep sea of Madeira may have discovered new species

For almost a month now, this remotely operated vehicle, which can reach a depth of two thousand meters, has been bringing news from the so-called “deep sea”.

Getting to know Madeira’s deep sea better is the challenge of an international expedition, which set out at the beginning of the month and is about to end. Researchers believe that new species have already been identified for the region and perhaps for science.

For almost a month now, this remotely operated vehicle, which can reach a depth of two thousand meters, has been bringing news from the so-called “deep sea”.

This is the fifth expedition in the last 50 years in the Madeira Sea

“Madeira is already a large research vessel in the middle of the Atlantic, that is, it has privileged access to the deep sea. In other words, if we swim 200-300 meters away from the coast, we already have the deep sea beneath us”, says the coordinator of Maré Madeira-Arditi, João Canning-Clode.

The expedition brings together 22 researchers from five nationalities on board the Merian , on one of the most sophisticated research ships.

One of the priorities of this three-week mission is to understand the role of jellyfish in the food chain.

The expedition ends in a few days and a very promising assessment is already being made.

“It seems that they have already made a series of discoveries of various plagic organisms, and that these are new records for the region, and may even be new records for science. We will only be sure what type of species we are talking about after this campaign”, adds the researcher.

This mission also coincides with the news that the Center for Marine and Environmental Sciences in Madeira has won a European project, with the same international partners as this expedition, for deep sea training worth one and a half million euros

The Algarve Situation Report Wednesday 6th March 2024

by Mike Evans

A very good day to you all and as we start to see the weather improving and more holiday makers visible in the area we are still in the throes of a serious drought situation. We hear that local farmers are planning to drive their tractors and other agricultural vehicles along the N125 at a very slow pace on Friday the 8th March to protest their concerns about the drought situation.

Macário Correia, the president of the Sotavento Irrigation Association, in the eastern Algarve was quoted this week “Farmers from the Algarve, will meet at 09:00 [on Friday] at the Boliqueime football field and will drive slowly, with tractors and vehicles linked to agriculture, vans and trucks, during the morning, between Boliqueime and Almancil”at 12:00 p.m.,and a representation of farmers will go to the Algarve Coordination and Development Commission ( CCDR ), in Faro, to deliver a document with “urgent demands” about the problems linked to the lack of water and “ reorganisation” of the Ministry of Agriculture.

The slow march is organised by the recently created Commission for Hydro Agricultural Sustainability of the Algarve (CSHA), which claims to bring together more than 1,000 Algarve entities and farmers, namely, all associations in the region linked to agriculture, livestock, forestry, flowers and ornamental plants , among others, according to Macário Correia.

In a statement, CSHA states that among the demands to be delivered to the Algarve CCDR and the next Government is the urgent request to increase water storage capacity, as well as the implementation of equitable cuts in water use and the restructuring of the Ministry of Agriculture, with the reinstallation of the regional Agriculture and Fisheries directorates.

The new association, formed last January, following the Government’s announcement that the region would have water cuts, thus announces the mobilisation of farmers for “a large street protest”, carried out in the form of a slow march on the EN 125, between 9am and 2pm, between the Maritenda and Quatro Estradas roundabouts.

The commission calls for “equitable cuts” in water use, recalls the suspension of new investments in this area, suggests an information campaign among the population, the updating of underground abstraction titles, and contests the “insufficiency” of support presented by the Government .On the other hand, he reinforces, as the rainfall in recent weeks exceeded the Government’s estimates, “all the volume allocated higher than estimated should be directed to alleviate the cuts imposed on agriculture”.

It also demands the restructuring of the Ministry of Agriculture, and that this allows for “less bureaucratic burden and fiscal pressure”, defending the “reinstallation” of the regional Agriculture and Fisheries directorates. Whether their calls will be heard from the government as it is currently in recession due to the election remains to be seen.

Now a look at some of the other stories from across the region in the last week.

Immigrants protest in Portimão due to delays by the agency that replaced SEF

Dozens of people demonstrated this Monday morning at the Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum (AIMA) , formerly SEF, in Portimão. Immigrants complain about the delay in granting residence in the country, SIC Notícias reported.

They work in restaurants, hotels, construction or agriculture and, this Monday, they took the morning to see if together they could make themselves heard. They have been waiting for months for their residence card .

They filed the papers at the time of the former Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) , but are still waiting, now, for the completion of the task that was passed on to AIMA. Without documents, they cannot leave the country and there are those who are managing personal dramas remotely, such as illness and death of children and parents.

And even those who do not intend to return home anytime soon complain that the lack of documents prevents them from working legally.

There are cases of workers who, however, have become ill and are finding it difficult to receive continued medical care. In other words, there are cases that may still have to wait more than a year.

AIMA, which replaced the SEF at the end of October last year, states that it inherited 350 thousand cases and that it wants to resolve all pending issues by the summer of 2025.

Man who sold drugs in Olhão arrested by PSP

Last week, the PSP arrested a 52-year-old man for the crime of drug trafficking in Olhão, that police force reported this Monday

The arrest occurred following an action specifically aimed at combating trafficking and direct sales to consumers, in the city of Olhão, details the PSP in a statement.

After searching the suspect, it was possible to detect and seize around 253 individual doses of heroin, 13 individual doses of cocaine and 525 euros that the PSP suspects resulted from the sale of that type of drug. The detainee was brought before the judicial authority, and the coercive measure of prohibiting him from staying in places and contacting individuals associated with drug trafficking was applied to him.

Spanish crew member suffered Heart Attack in Barra de Olhão and died

A crew member from the ship “Rafael Y Ana” who was on board went into cardiorespiratory arrest and had no vital signs this morning. The vessel was sailing approximately 15 miles, the equivalent of 28 kilometres, south of the Olhão bar.

The National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM) defined the evacuation as urgent. The Search and Rescue Coordination Center immediately contacted the Air Force to prepare an aerial vehicle, and the Captain of the Port of Olhão committed a vessel from the Olhão Lifeguard Station to carry out the rescue. The INEM medical team was also on board, who after observation declared the death of the 45-year-old man, of Spanish nationality.

Tourism Sector awaits ‘green seal’ that certifies water savings

Tourism officials in the Algarve assured this week that the sector is taking measures and remains committed to the fight against drought, awaiting the launch of the water efficiency seal that will attest to the reduction in consumption.

“We are and will continue to implement measures to reduce water consumption”, assured the president of the Association of Hotels and Tourist Enterprises of the Algarve ( AHETA ), the largest hotel association in the region.

Hélder Martins added that “the presentation of the ‘green seal’ that tourism enterprises hope will attest to the effective reduction in water consumption and the companies’ commitment to implementing water efficiency measures that contribute to savings and sustainable water management.

The representative of Algarve hoteliers said that “more structural” investments will take longer to implement, such as replacing plants in gardens with more resistant ones or a deeper change in sanitary equipment.

For his part, the president of the Algarve Tourism Region, André Gomes, assured that the sector “renewed and reinforced its commitment” to saving water, an effort that has been underway for a few years.

The official regretted that the modalities for implementing the new water efficiency seal, called ‘Save Water’, had not been announced, as initially planned, during the Lisbon Tourism Exchange, which took place between the 28th of February and the 3rd of March, but promised to launch the initiative soon.

André Gomes explained that hotels will be able to voluntarily adhere to a set of 60 measures that the sector can take to reduce water consumption.

Hotel units will have to register on a computer platform and their water consumption will be monitored throughout the year, he added.

In February, the Council of Ministers approved a resolution in which the Government recognizes the alert situation in the Algarve region, due to drought, and approved a framework of immediate response measures, of a temporary nature, to reduce consumption and rationalise energy consumption. use of water resources.

The measures will allow “to overcome the essential needs of the summer season and end the year 2024 with reserves for 2025”, according to the text of the resolution.

In January, the Minister of Environment and Climate Action had already announced water cuts of 25% in agriculture and 15% in the urban sector, which includes tourism, for the Algarve to preserve water reserves and face the drought.

The water saving measures decided must be implemented from now until “the end of the current hydrological year, which ends on September 30, 2024”.

It is expected that families will have less pressure to take showers and wash dishes and will no longer be able to wash their cars with mains water during the summer.

Those who consume little water will be able to maintain prices, but the sector regulator indicated that municipalities will be able to approve new tariffs that increase according to consumption levels.

Still in the tourism sector, measures are planned such as the installation of devices to reduce pressure or recirculate water, suspending the public water supply for irrigation of golf courses or closing showers and foot baths in bathing areas.

New Search and Rescue centre to open in Olhao

The Protection and Relief Operations Intervention Corps (CIOPS) and the Cinotechnical Unit (UK9) now have a unit based in the city of Olhão that always operates through activation of the GNR and ANEPC.

A letter is currently being drawn up, in order to collaborate with the Municipal Civil Protection and open fixed facilities in the municipality, so that the Cinotechnical Unit section (UK9) can increase its intervention capacity.

Manuel Duarte who, for professional reasons, resides in that city and is an operational recognized by the Republican National Guard, for search and rescue using the dog Miko, allows activation for the entire Algarve area and other areas that the GNR or National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority requests and is available to travel. It should be noted that, in 2021, the same operator intervened in the search for a missing elderly woman in São Brás de Alportel.

K9H-CIOPS (Protection and Relief Operations Intervention Corps) through the CIOPS Search and Rescue Force (FBS CIOPS) is a non-profit association, established on February 19, 2014, headquartered in Sangemil, Águas Santas in the municipality da Maia, and currently with a section of the Cinotechnical Unit (UK9) of the CIOPS Search and Rescue Force, now based in the municipality of Olhão.

Its work is to carry out prevention and intervention actions, throughout the national territory, in emergency protection and relief situations, based on earthquakes, search, rescue and rescue in different environments, as well as in other situations. emergency, with the fundamental mission of protecting, helping and assisting citizens and defending and preserving assets that are in trouble, due to causes arising from human action or nature.

Since June 8, 2019, by order of the President of the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), Lieutenant-General Mourato Nunes, the K9H-CIOPS Association was granted recognition as a Civil Protection Volunteer Organization (OVPC) .

He also developed the “CIOPS goes to School” project to, in contact with younger people, exemplify that volunteering aims above all to help people in difficulty, solve social problems and improve the quality of life in the community.

Municipal swimming pools in Olhão reopen to the public

After the closure of the changing rooms at the beginning of last November, due to the detection of signs of the development of legionella culture, the Olhão municipal swimming pool complex reopens to the public on March 1st.

After a thorough intervention in the water network and subsequent analyzes carried out by the public health authority, this municipal establishment resumed normal activity, which shows that the problem has been completely overcome.

The sanitary hot water tank was replaced, electrical resistances were installed to increase the water’s heating capacity and a permanent water disinfection system was installed using a chlorine dioxide generator. In this way, and acting on both fronts to combat legionella (increasing water temperature and chemical disinfection), the municipality of Olhão guaranteed prophylactic action, which will prevent the problem from recurring. Monitoring of the water network will continue to be carried out regularly, through analyzes carried out by an independent entity.

Two suspects of drug trafficking and possession of prohibited weapons detained by GNR in VRSA

Police authorities arrested two people suspected of drug trafficking and possession of a prohibited weapon, following a road inspection carried out in Vila Real de Santo António, the GNR announced yesterday 29 February.

The detainees are a man and a woman, aged 41 and 44, and were arrested in flagrante delicto after the GNR soldiers ordered the vehicle they were travelling in to stop, in the town of Hortas, and detected that the driver did not have a driving licence. Afterwards, drugs and a prohibited weapon were found in his possession, the GNR said in a statement.

“Following the action, a search of the vehicle and a personal security search of the driver and occupant of the vehicle were carried out, and it was possible to verify that they were in possession of a narcotic product and a prohibited weapon, which led to their arrest and to the seizure of the material”, said the security force. The GNR highlighted that, after the first personal and vehicle search, a house search was then carried out at the residence of the detainees, which ended with the seizure of 47 doses of hashish, 32 of cocaine; 11 of heroin and eight of marijuana, as well as three cell phones, a precision scale, an automatic opening knife, bags for individualising doses and 159 euros.

The detainees were made defendants and the facts were sent to the Judicial Court of Vila Real de Santo António, indicated the GNR, highlighting that in the operation, resources were used to reinforce the Criminal Investigation Center (NIC) of Tavira and a drug detection kinesthetic binomial. of the Intervention Detachment (DI) of the Faro Territorial Command.

Two Arrested for Robbery of Elderly Persons

The GNR arrested two women aged 23 and 31 for robbery in the town of Luz de Tavira on Wednesday, and other crimes that occurred in the north of the country late last year.

“During a patrolling action, the military detected a vehicle in a hidden location, with two men aged 21 and 28 inside, who hid when they saw the Guard vehicle, and so were approached and inspected”, said the GNR in a statement.

During this inspection, the GNR received “an alert from a person regarding a robbery, and the two men becoming quite agitated, which immediately raised signs that their presence was related to the situation in question”. One of the soldiers immediately went to the location, having seen a group of people chasing two women, and managing to approach one of them, aged 23, who had in her possession a stolen gold chain. The other, aged 31, was later intercepted by members of the public near the train station and handed over to the GNR.

After police investigations, the 23-year-old woman was arrested for stealing from a 74 year old man, with the gold chain found in her possession coming from the robbery.

The GNR also found that moments earlier, “the same suspect had also tried to steal a gold chain from a 64 year old man. As for the remaining three members of the group, they were constituted as defendants and subject to an identity and residence term”.

Following this police action and with the collaboration of the Tavira Public Security Police, it was possible to associate elements of this group with other crimes that occurred in the north of the country.

The Republican National Guard also found that “the 31 year old woman was suspected of a robbery by snatching a gold chain on November 14, 2023, in the town of Ferreiras, Albufeira, with the victim being a 74 year old man, this crime is being investigated at the Albufeira Criminal Investigation Center, which led to her being arrested. In addition to the gold chain, three mobile phones, €268.38 in cash and the vehicle in which they were being transported were also seized. The detainees, aged 23 and 31, will be present at the Judicial Court of Tavira and Portimão for the application of the respective coercive measures.

Until the next time Stay Safe

Algarve Situation Report Wednesday 28th February 2024

We start this report as we have for a number of previous reports about the water situation in the Algarve. Whilst many would think that the rains we have experienced recently would be good for the region it is countered by the fact that in January the region used 4.6% more water than in the same month in 2023.

Urban water consumption in the Algarve rose 4.6% in January, compared to the same period in 2023, an expenditure equivalent to 20 cubic hectometres, according to data from the reservoir management commission, the Portuguese Environment Agency. According to the latest data on the evolution of the drought situation in the region, only six of the 19 entities responsible for water supply – four municipalities (Alcoutim, Castro Marim, Silves and Vila do Bispo) and two companies municipalities (in Loulé and Olhão) – reduced consumption in January, compared to the same month in 2023.

In the opposite direction, all the remaining municipalities and companies that supply the region consumed more water last January than in the same month last year, with the main year-on-year increases being recorded in Albufeira, Portimão and Loulé, three of the main tourist municipalities. What this means for us remains to be seen but with the expected price rises being blocked by the mayors and no sign of any long term rainwater it does look as though we will be struggling to find enough water for the summer and at the same time wondering whether we will have to pay more for it.

The Algarve has been on alert due to drought since February 5th and the Government has already admitted to increasing the level of restrictions, declaring a state of calamity or environmental emergency, if the measures now implemented are insufficient to deal with water scarcity in the region. We will see where this leads us!

Now a look at what else has happened across the region in the past week.

Three tons of hashish seized in the Guadiana River

The GNR ‘s Coastal and Border Control Unit (UCCF) seized in the early hours of this Friday around three tons of hashish and a high-speed vessel on the Guadiana River, the security force announced.

In a statement, the GNR said that the semi-rigid vessel was detected when entering the Guadiana bar as part of a coordinated patrolling action between the Integrated External Surveillance System (SIVE) of the Guardia Civil of Spain and the Integrated Surveillance, Command and Control (SIVICC) of the GNR.

“As a result, a maritime patrol from the Olhão Coastal Control detachment was immediately activated, with a view to intercepting and boarding the vessel that was sailing, hiding the signalling lights”, the note reads. Following police action, it was possible to intercept the vessel, which contained 80 bales of hashish, and prevent the landing of the drug, totaling 2,997 kilos.

Authorities also seized the 12-metre vessel, five jerrycans of fuel, various electronic equipment and navigation equipment. However, in the presence of the GNR maritime patrol, the suspects fled on foot towards Spanish territory.

The facts were communicated to the Department of Investigation and Criminal Action (DIAP) of Vila Real de Santo António.

Jet 2 Plane makes emergency landing at Faro airport

The Airbus A321-200N plane, originating in Tenerife (Spain) and destined for Birmingham (England), landed this Thursday at Gago Coutinho Airport , in Faro, according to The Aviation Herald. The incident happened around 5pm.

With 220 passengers on board, the crew decided to “divert to Faro” due to a “strong burning smell”. The aircraft landed safely 35 minutes later.

Algarve road improvements announced

The project, which is expected to have an implementation period of 120 days, will benefit many important roads in the parish of Alvor. In the meantime, the municipality has already warned the population that there will be some constraints on car circulation once the works start.

Although the roads will not be fully closed for the repair works, a couple of streets in the Alvor area should be avoided if possible in order to keep roads clear for the works to run smoothly. As the municipality of Portimão has warned, “duly signposted on site, imply some constraints on car circulation, which is why we request better understanding from motorists, who should opt for alternative routes whenever possible.”

The paths and roads which will take advantage of the repair and improvement works are: Rua Vasco da Gama/Rua Pedro Álvares Cabral, Rua Dr. António José de Almeida, Caminho das Biscainhas, Caminho dos Valinhos, Urbanização Vela Latina, Rua da Praia da Restinga, Rua do Parque de Pestana Alvor, Rua do Impasse tô Rua Manuel Soares de Campos, Rua de Tânger and Rua Maria Teresa JD Dionísio.

Until the next time Stay Safe..

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 28th February 2024

Good morning. We start the day with a report of an accident that was certainly preventable and nearly led to a tragedy. This involved the rescue of nine students from the sea at Vila do Conde on Sunday. The alert was given to the Vila do Conde firefighters for a pre-drowning situation on Senhora da Guia beach. Eight were kayakers including a kayak teacher included. The ninth was a member of the public who tried to help and ended up being dragged along too.

The students and the teacher were kayaking on the Ave River when they approached the mouth of the river and ended up caught by the current into the sea to the surf zone, which threw them out of the boats. All nine members belong to the Clube Fluvial Vilacondense, and five of them ended up having to be transported to hospitals.

Yellow level rough seas and strong winds warnings were in place at the time and the ANEPC had earlier advised “Do not practice activities related to the sea, namely sport fishing, nautical sports”. The fact that the students were in trouble, that they had to be rescued and that five were in a state of “hypothermia”, begs the question, why in view of the warnings in place this training session went ahead in the first place? It could have been far more serious if it was not the prompt action of the emergency services.

We remind everyone to respect the warnings that are put in place – they are there for a very good reason – your safety!

A reminder that with the decreasing minimum temperatures and rain showers earlier on in parts of the mainland, especially in the centre and north, there is a risk of ice patches on the roads. We recommend that drivers be on the lookout and be prepared for such conditions. Braking distances can increase tenfold on ice compared with a dry road. For this reason, you should leave up to 10 times the normal recommended gap between you and the car in front. Remember that tyres grip less efficiently in cold conditions. If you do encounter a skid, steer gently into it. For example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right. As above, do not take your hands off the steering wheel or brake hard.

Also a reminder from the civil protection authority Lisbon which published earlier this week the dangers concerning detergent capsules and young children. The detergents in capsules, with bright and eye-catching colours, are particularly appealing to children who can easily confuse them for treats, leading to an appreciable number of calls to the INEM Anti-poison Information Centre, due to intoxication.

Most of these are related to children who when handling the capsules, result in the capsules bursting in the hands or mouth, hitting the eyes, the mouth or skin. Although most situations are low-severity, they can still cause injury, namely at the eye level, with potentially more serious consequences. Depending on the organ affected by direct contact with the product, it can happen: 1. Skin: erythema (red skin, irritated) 2.Eyes: burning, red eye, swollen eyelid or even a chemical burn or 3. Mouth: vomiting, changes in the oropharynx (throat), or changes in respiratory due to product aspiration. If affected contact the INEM Anti-poison Information Centre – 800 250 250 immediately and remember: Always keep these products out of reach of children.

Our team wishes you a safe and happy week ahead

News

Strike against prison guards leads to the postponement of more than 90% of trials

Lisbon, February 27, 2024 (Lusa) – The strike by prison guards on stage has already led to the postponement of more than a thousand trials and more than 90% of scheduled sessions, according to the National Union of the Prison Guard Corps (SNCGP).

The guards have been on strike since February 13th and, according to the union, membership is currently around 100%, with an impact on the transport of prisoners.

“We are talking about the postponement of around 90% to 95% of trials,” Frederico Morais, from the SNCGP, told Lusa, noting that, in two weeks, more than a thousand sessions were postponed.

According to the union leader, in prisons in Lisbon and Porto, joining the strike led to the postponement of all trials.

The strike is also having an impact on medical appointments and, in this case, the minimum services are only allowing 10% of appointments to be guaranteed, with the rest being postponed.

The guards are on strike until March 9 to demand the “valuation and dignification of professionals”, the “restructuring of remuneration supplements” and the “approval of the performance evaluation system for professionals in the prison guard body, which has already been completed”.

“The adherence has to do with the dissatisfaction of the prison guard body and the lack of responses from the Government. We have been on strike for two weeks and no one has even deigned to speak to the prison guard staff”, highlighted Frederico Morais.

Prison guards have also been present at security force protests over the last month, motivated mainly by the granting of a mission allowance to the PJ, which left out not only the prison guard, but also the PSP and GNR.

Lusa questioned the Ministry of Justice about the impact of the strike on proceedings in the courts and is awaiting a response.

Almost 1 in 10 students in Portuguese schools are foreigners

The number of foreign students attending schools has increased in recent years. The data is contained in the report “State of Education 2022”, released by the National Education Council (CNE), which provides a portrait of education in Portugal

The number of foreign students attending Portuguese schools has increased in recent years and in 2021/2022 there were more than 100 thousand, equivalent to almost one in 10 of the total universe.

The data is contained in the report “State of Education 2022”, released this Monday by the National Education Council (CNE), which provides a portrait of education in Portugal.

In 2021/2022, 1.2 million students were enrolled in primary and secondary education. In mainland Portugal, schools were attended by 105,855 children and young people of foreign nationality, from more than 200 countries.

With an increase of almost 14 thousand compared to the previous academic year, the 79,796 foreigners between the 1st and 3rd cycle represented 9.3% of the total number of students and close to half belonged to the Brazilian community (44.6%).

Among the nationalities most represented in basic education are Angolans, with 6,613 students, and Ukrainians (5,019), which more than doubled in one year, as a result of the war in Ukraine.

Coming from 246 countries, there were 26,059 foreign students in secondary education, 3,502 more than in the previous year and equivalent to 7.9%.

Similar to basic education, the largest community was Brazilian (40.3%), followed by Angolan (10.0%) and Santomean (8.0%).

Comparatively, the proportion of Ukrainian students is much lower, representing only 3.5% (924 in total).

The Lisbon Metropolitan Area concentrates almost half of the students of foreign nationality and, in the opposite direction, only 5% were found in Alentejo.

Despite the growing trend recorded in recent years, the report notes that “at all levels and cycles of education, the proportion of foreign students with access” to the subject of Portuguese as a Non-Mother Language is low.

Azores Situation Report Wednesday 28th February 2024

Portuguese courses for foreigners with open applications

The Regional Directorate for Communities has the application period for the organization of Portuguese Courses for Speakers of Other Languages running until March 31st, the Government of the Azores announced recently.

The courses are an initiative promoted by the Azorean executive through the regional directorates of Communities and Education, which aim to contribute to the full integration of foreign citizens residing in the archipelago, through their personal and professional development.

Public educational establishments and entities of a public, private or cooperative nature are eligible to be training entities, namely local authorities, companies or business associations, unions and associations at a local, regional or national level.

Passenger arrested on Terceira with drugs in his system.

A passenger on a transatlantic flight was admitted to Hospital da Terceira due to alleged intoxication and later detained by the Judiciary Police (PJ), after drugs were detected inside his body.

In a statement, the PJ explained that the 36-year-old man was traveling on Wednesday on a flight from Europe to the Caribbean when the plane was forced to land at Lajes airport, on the island of Terceira, “due to disturbances caused by the suspect.”

“After it landed, the man developed symptoms of acute intoxication, which led to his admission to the Hospital de Santo Espírito on the island of Terceira, where it was discovered that the symptoms resulted from the existence of drug packaging inside his body. , namely resin and cannabis leaves”, indicated the PJ.

After being discharged from hospital, the man was detained and will undergo the first judicial interrogation to apply coercive measures, according to the PJ.

Camellias from the Azores return to beautify the Furnas valley this weekend.

Hundreds of camellias produced in the Furnas valley, in the Azores, including a unique species in the world, will be on display over the weekend, in an exhibition that marks two decades this year.

The camellia exhibition, which will take place at the Pavilhão Multiusos das Furnas, organized by the Povoação Municipal Council, in collaboration with the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel and the Furnas Parish Council, has as one of the main promoters Fernando Costa, head of the Botanical Park Terra Nostra, and its team.

Fernando Costa said that there are currently around 800 varieties of camellias in the Terra Nostra Botanical Park, some of which multiply through cuttings, while others are grafted.

Terra Nostra Park contains one of the largest collections of camellias in the world, having been distinguished in 2014 with the “Camellia Garden of Excellence” award by the International Camellia Society.

The camellia collection was introduced by Fernando Costa in 1994, bringing together more than 45 species of 800 different varieties and cultivars.

According to Fernando Costa, “there is a camellia in the park that is unique in the world”, which he named Patrícia Bensaúde, after “having been recognized by the competent international bodies”.

The 20th edition of the camellia exhibition features more than two hundred varieties that “will be on display in this space, which is larger and has greater capacity to accommodate more artisans and local producers, with the best that is made in the municipality of Povoação for tasting and sale”.

According to the Povoação Municipal Council, the Furnas camellia exhibition is “an unavoidable icon of the tourist offers on the island of São Miguel in the low season and, with each passing edition, a winning bet is consolidated, fulfilling the function of its creation.”

In addition to gardens and parks, camellias are also cultivated by individuals in their gardens, existing in various colours, not only in the Azores, but also in the north of the country.

Situation Reports | Safe Communities Portugal - Part 9