The Madeira Regional Government inaugurated four renovated rooms at the Region’s Situation and Emergency Management Center on Monday, March 2, as officials emphasized the importance of bolstering the island’s disaster preparedness capabilities.
During a ceremony at the Regional Civil Protection Service headquarters in Cancela, Madeira Regional Government President Miguel Albuquerque criticized what he described as a lack of support from the Portuguese central government. He accused the national government of offering only “talk, fantasy, kisses and selfies,” while Madeira has been forced to create “colossal investments” in technology, robotics, drones, and artificial intelligence to address fire prevention, and response.
Albuquerque also highlighted the require for increased preventative measures in high-risk areas, including the maintenance of firebreaks, clearing strategic roads, and ensuring access to isolated communities. He stressed the importance of streamlining bureaucratic procedures to enable rapid intervention during emergencies. The investments underscore the region’s commitment to self-reliance in emergency management.
