Madeira regional government faces scrutiny over new hospital cost increase

The regional government of Madeira is under pressure as the Social Democratic Party (PS) demands transparency over a €150 million rise in the cost of the third phase of the new central hospital in Funchal. The phase, now priced at €415 million after an initially empty tender, covers general infrastructure, finishes and technical installations, with completion pushed to the end of 2030. Party leader Célia Pessegueiro called for public documentation to assess the justification of the increase and for guarantees that the national government will meet its pledged 50 % contribution.

At the same time, Madeira’s authorities are promoting a range of regional initiatives, including immediate responses to high‑cost challenges, tourism‑related housing pressure, and reforms to public facilities, as highlighted in the latest issue of the regional daily newspaper.