Portugal's Anafre calls for new parish funds and storm aid response

The National Association of Parishes (Anafre) said its president, Francisco Branco de Brito, will propose to the Portuguese government the creation of two dedicated funds for local parishes – an innovation and proximity fund and a calamity fund – as part of a broader revision of the Local Finance Law. The association also seeks to raise the share of the state budget allocated to parishes from the current 0.3% to 5% by 2030, arguing that the existing €406 million fund is insufficient for the responsibilities local councils face, especially after recurring wildfire threats.

At the same time, Anafre demanded a clear answer from the government on why aid allocated for damage caused by Storm Kristin has not yet reached many parishes. The group criticised the current damage‑assessment process, saying municipalities should not be the sole intermediaries and that several small councils are still waiting for substantial payments, with some reporting losses of around €300 000 against a modest €10 000 annual parish fund. The proposals are expected to be finalized early next week and submitted to the government‑appointed working group.