JPP political challenges and autonomy agenda in Madeira

The political party Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) has raised several concerns regarding social and economic challenges in Madeira, specifically focusing on youth mobility, education, and elderly care.

Initially, JPP youth leader Jéssica Teles called on President António José Seguro to address the unique mobility costs faced by Madeiran youth. She argued that national policies must account for insularity, noting that travel for education or work involves significant ocean-crossing expenses. Teles criticized the current reimbursement-based Territorial Continuity Mechanism and advocated for fixed, lower tariffs for residents and students.

Subsequently, JPP representatives expanded their critiques of the Madeira Regional Government. Alexandre Gomes, representing the JPP youth wing, proposed a regional housing supplement to assist students relocating to mainland Portugal, citing high rental prices in cities like Lisbon and Porto. Additionally, JPP President Lina Pereira criticized the government’s reprogramming of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), alleging it would result in a reduction of approximately 500 beds in residential care structures, which she argued negatively impacts the elderly and home care workers.

Expanding its platform, JPP Secretary-General Élvio Sousa announced the ‘Agenda-Madeira-Autonomia 2027-2047’, a twenty-year development plan. Sousa called for constitutional revision and a unique fiscal regime to break local economic monopolies and reduce the influence of powerful families. He criticized the current regional government for prioritizing luxury interests, such as golf courses and marinas, over citizen needs. To combat the high cost of living, the party is advocating for a reduction in the 22% VAT rate, increased supermarket competition, and improved housing availability.