Portugal’s National Institute for Emergency Medical Services (INEM) has acknowledged outstanding payments to volunteer firefighters, citing budgetary constraints as the reason for the delays. The admission came as the Firefighters’ League announced it was terminating its cooperation agreement with INEM due to unpaid dues.
The Firefighters’ League stated that the decision to end the protocol followed repeated failures by INEM to meet its financial obligations. INEM officials confirmed the arrears, explaining that the organization requires additional budgetary support to resolve the situation. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has pledged to intervene and find a solution to the dispute.
The breakdown in cooperation raises concerns about the sustainability of emergency medical services in Portugal, particularly in regions where volunteer firefighters play a critical role in first response. Both parties have expressed willingness to negotiate a resolution, with the ministry’s involvement seen as a key step toward restoring the partnership.
