António Nunes denies knowledge of firefighting tender corruption

António Nunes, president of the Portuguese Firefighters League (LBP), testified before a parliamentary inquiry commission regarding the business of rural wildfires. Nunes stated he has never had “objective knowledge” of any corruption or rigging in public tenders related to firefighting resources.

Nunes clarified that if he had encountered specific illegalities, he would have reported them to the Public Ministry. He noted that the LBP forwards anonymous complaints or reports to the Inspectorate-General of Health Activities or the Attorney General's Office for investigation.

Addressing theories regarding the involvement of timber companies in perpetuating fires, Nunes expressed doubt, attributing the spread of fires instead to state organizational failures. He cited incorrect fire assessments, delayed mobilization, and poor resource distribution as key issues. He also advocated for the reinstatement of the National Firefighters Command to improve operational management autonomy.