Madeira News Blog

Today’s Photo Thanks to Sue … "Just to think of sunny days … "

Some people publish their family holiday snapshots online, never expecting anyone to ever see them, so naked sunbathing photos are not recommended. I expect this lady will have a bit of a surprise when she sees her visitor stats tomorrow. TÂMARA’S MADEIRA HOLIDAY

"These two astronaut photographs illustrate the northern (top) and southern (bottom) Savage Islands. The two views were taken 13 seconds apart from the International Space Station; the geographic centre points of the images are separated by about 15 kilometres. Selvagem Grande, with an approximate area of 4 square kilometres, is the largest of the islands. The smaller and more irregularly-shaped Ilhéus do Norte, Ilhéu de Fora, and Selvagem Pequena are visible at the center of the lower image. Spain and Portugal both claim sovereignty over the Savage Islands". ILHAS SELVAGENS

"In an attempt to liven things up a bit, we started trying to determine which of the interesting looking fruits might be edible.  These rather attractively purple bananas (you will need to click on the link to see the photo) turned out to be not only ripe, but deliciously sweet, and rather oddly crunchy, with seeds the size of peppercorns. I SUSPECT THOSE ‘WILD’ BANANAS WERE FAR FROM RIPE OR WERE NOT BANANAS worth a read and some nice photos

British lawyer laundered bribes to Nigeria – "The entire Nigerian bribery scheme was organised through London, according to the US authorities, taking advantage of Britain’s weak laws against overseas corruption. Labour ministers waved through a British loan guarantee for part of the deal in 2003, describing it as an example of "sound financial judgment". Cash flowed down an elaborate route, involving a subsidiary registered in Madeira, a Tesler company registered in Gibraltar and bank accounts in the Netherlands". LINK I doubt if the Madeira free zone needs this type of publicity as it is under so much scrutiny at the moment with accusations that it is effectively an ‘offshore’, but as this article was published in the UK Guardian newspaper, I doubt that reproducing this here will cause any further damage.

Many thanks again to Elaine for yesterday’s top news stories :

Government outlines new goals for organic production. Bio Madeira Week. At the time when the region has 5% of agricultural land classified as organic, the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Natural Resources yesterday set a challenge of increasing this area from 240 hectares to 500 over the next few years. In 2000, there were only 21 hectares devoted to organic farming. For these producers there are added incentives, e.g. payments higher than for traditional farmers – 30% more for organic grapes and bananas. The expansion of this type of agriculture is an opportunity and a factor of competitiveness. As Madeira is only a small island, farmers cannot compete on price so the produce must be of high quality and organic certification is a critical distinction.

Verandim yields and ‘betrays’ two elderly people. Two women, aged 69 and 79, were yesterday admitted to the Central Hospital of Funchal from injuries suffered in a fall from a balcony, about two feet up. They were leaning against a varandim (balcony) of iron when, for reasons not known, it gave way causing both to fall. They were assisted on site by the bombeiros and taken to the hospital. One had a cut on the scalp and both complained of back pain. The older woman was kept under observation in the Emergency Room and the younger one admitted to Orthopaedics. The accident occurred at a private house in Sao Roque.

Man denies domestic violence case. Following on from yesterday’s article about domestic violence in Porto da Cruz. "For 20 years I do not drink." The outburst from the man accused of scaring the daughter and ex-wife who live in a secluded area of Porto da Cruz. He denies the allegations that he appeared drunk on the doorstep and is sure that he has not seen his daughter since the divorce. Outraged and hurt about the complaints to the police and the Commission for the Protection of Children, he says he will proceed with a criminal complaint against his ex-wife and son. The marriage lasted for 25 years. In his version, the ex-wife will have given false information about the alleged appearances at the old family home. As for drink, every time he has been breathalysed in police stops over the past 20 years, the reading was zero. He has not seen his 11 year old daughter since the divorce at the beginning of this year, although access is guaranteed by the divorce ruling. It is the ex-wife who prevents him from seeing the daughter and he abides by her decision. He stills pays the maintenance every month. He insists he never injured the daughter and has only been to the house to collect his belongings.

Regional Development Forum. The current economic situation determines the theme of the World Forum of Regional Economic Development, which is taking place in Funchal until tomorrow. A key objective is to find concrete measures that are feasible and apply them to the various regions, whatever they are. About 70 people of various nationalities are participating in the Forum which began yesterday. They are from places as diverse as China, Russia, Ukraine, Australia, United States and Europe. Energy is expected to be a fundamental aspect of the future. Hence the presence of the Russians and Ukrainians in the meeting, " They open and close the tap." One aspect that is certainly discussed at the meeting is the importance of social aspects. Today the world and regions face a social crisis. "In some countries, more than half of young people are unable to find work."

PS does not celebrate November 25. As the Legislative Assembly of Madeira did not celebrate April 25 1974 by a special sitting, members of the PS (Socialists) will not participate in any ceremony dedicated to 25 November 1975. In the commemorative session they will recall the military action that led to the stabilization of democracy. On 25 November 1975, according to the PSD, a party which for years promoted the realization of this plenary, models of Communist rule were rejected. ALM celebrates this ‘consolidation’ of democracy but does not devote any space to the celebration of the Carnation Revolution that ended more than four decades of dictatorship in Portugal. The leader of the PS, João Carlos Gouveia, explained that it is a celebration by a right wing party that does not accept democracy, and is closer to the fascist regime that oppressed Portugal. A year ago, the session on November 25 did not have any members of the Socialists, Left Bloc or New Democracy Party.

Junta de Gaula against Jardim’s cuts. The JPP party (Together for the People) on Sunday in public denounced the cutting of public works by the Government and Council of Santa Cruz. The leader of the local Freguesia, also JPP, was also against the cuts. Élvio Sousa said it revealed a profound disregard for the interests of the Gaula population, a situation which needs to be explained by the mayor of Santa Cruz and the former executive responsible for the Freguesia of Gaula – that the analysis deceived the people of Gaula. He cannot understand how the work has been postponed when a framework contract has already been signed in March 2009. Élvio Sousa asks the following question: "To what extent are local councillors, who must defend the interests of the people of Gaula, ‘slaves’ of the masters in Funchal?"

ALM budget approved in eight minutes. Less than 10 minutes were enough to discuss and approve the budget for the ALM. Only the PCP communists referred to the famous ‘jackpot’ for the parties and the questions raised by the Court of Auditors in relation to the use of funds transferred by the Assembly. In discussing the accounts of the ALM in 2008, Baltasar Aguiar of the PND New Democrats commented on the high cost of parking, paid by Parliament (165,000 Euros per year). He also asked Miguel Mendonca why a trip to America that was to last 3 days ended up lasting 11 days.

Christmas Outreach Project. The Regional Secretariat for Tourism and Transport put forward an action of solidarity, aimed at the young. There will be a large Santa Claus in the Avenida Arriaga where you can deposit toys which will be distributed to children in institutions in the region. The toys will be distributed at the show ‘Singing of the Kings’ at the Municipal Park on January 5, 2010 at 20.00.

There will be less money in 2010. Presenting the budget for next year, Ventura Garces announced several cuts. The budget has been reduced to €1,531 million, €50 million less than 2009. The region should experience an increase in net debt of around €178 million resulting in a loan of 230 million Euros (still lacks the authorization from the State) and €52 million is needed to repay the loan. Another loan worth 50 million Euros might be applied for from the European Investment Bank. Sport will receive 11% less and agriculture will receive 14% less. The opposite applies to business development that increases 111%, employment over 37%, and tourism 6% more than 2009.

Meeting of the Union of Embroiderers in Turkey. The Madeira Union of Bordados (traditional embroidery) at a meeting in Turkey, want the creation of an International Federation of Home Workers. They want an Internet site to unite home workers from every country, and a Federation to fight for their rights. The Union has delivered its proposal to IBTAM to double the payments made to embroiderers, as an incentive. There are fewer and fewer workers due to the low income.

Car caught fire on motorway. A car caught fire yesterday on the Funchal – Ribeira Brava motorway. The incident occurred around 15.30 and the front of the Peugeot 206 was completely destroyed. Manuel Rodrigues, the owner, said that while going from Funchal to São Vicente, at the exit from the tunnel after Quinta Grande the car started to emit smoke and then fire broke out. This continued until the exit to Campanário. He used a fire extinguisher but it was the bombeiros who eventually extinguished the fire. The car was purchased in London and was brought to the region yesterday via the Naviera Armas. The fire might have been caused by a short circuit.

Cruises yield €40 million per year. The Ports Authority want to increase the number of calls by cruise ships, which is close to 300 per year. The objective is outlined at a time when the administration is preparing to make a new study on the satisfaction of cruise tourists who visit the island. Cruise ships tourism generates revenues of €40 million per year, but APRAM want to end the seasonality when May to August are quiet months. One way is the association with Medicuise which should give access to new routes. The last survey was in 2005 and this one will occur in the first half of 2010. It aims to update the data on spending patterns of the passengers and crews while on the island. It is recalled that in 2005, the study concluded that each passenger spent around 70 Euros a day. An EU survey concluded that crew members spend an average of 25 Euros per day. The inauguration of the new Maritime Station has been scheduled for next year, but no date fixed. The building will be completed by the end of this year then in the first half of next year, the equipment to operate it put into place. The cost will not be passed onto cruise ship passengers. The Traditional Trade Association want an extension of Saturday and Sunday opening to catch the weekend trade of hundreds of tourists when cruise ships call. Only last weekend there were 6,300 tourists who found a city deserted and empty. The authorities should promote tours to the city center and the Farmers’ Market. Sights of interest should also open at the weekend.

Government will encourage ‘Park and Ride’. The Horários Bus company, the Council of Funchal and the Regional Secretariat of Tourism and Transport are studying this concept. This initiative is intended to relocate parking from the city center to the periphery and make public transport sufficiently attractive so that people do not want to drive into the centre. A previous attempt at Viveiros did not work due to low compliance. The idea is to have two parking areas, one at the Western side and one at the Eastern side.

Police detain nine suspected of stealing from several homes in Funchal. Nine men between the ages of 20 and 59 are suspected of burglary and are thought to belong to a gang "presumably involved in concerted behaviour." Several items were seized including several pieces of gold, worth more than 6,000 Euros. The suspects are residents of Funchal, Santa Cruz and Lisbon.

Today’s headline news from the front page of the Diário de Notícias :

Top story today : Demolition of Savoy starts in January – The hotel comes down in a process without implosion that will take 10 months. The developer Horácio Roque says that he intends to spend the New Year eve 2012-13 in a new building, budgeted at €120 million. Perhaps Mr. Roque is thinking of staying in another new hotel then, or perhaps in a hotel outbuilding? If it needs 10 months to knock down the old one (using traditional methods) and clear the site, that leaves just over two years to build a new one. This is Madeira … I have seen houses that have taken longer than two years to build. The bets are on! The idea is demolition with as little disturbance as possible, but that is of course impossible to avoid. I have pity for people in that zone that will have to put up with all this for years to come, particularly as this project was never necessary, and better options were available to revitalise the fortunes of the Savoy hotel, and for the loyal staff that were all sacked.

Debate concludes that the crisis is going to endure – The ’100 Biggest and Best’ (companies) united bosses of success in times of difficulties. I agree. An economy based so heavily on leisure will always be amongst the last out of recession, and I didn’t need to attend a conference of company bosses to work that one out.

In the Madeira budget for 2010, 29% of the revenue needed is not guaranteed. Someone else fancy a look at this one?

Health is in contention in the screening for Gripe A – Each exam costs more than 100 Euros and should be reduced. In January support for private analyses finishes. There seems to be two intertwined stories here, but the one in front of me says that tests and analyses samples taken by hospitals and health centres on Madeira, that went to private companies for processing, will no longer have the costs reimbursed from January. All such work will in future be undertaken by the Pathology Laboratory in Funchal Central Hospital. That’s old news, but maybe the effective date is new?

SATA wants to continue the operation Funchal – Porto Santo. President of the company showed himself to be interested in the contest anticipated for 2010. That can be no great surprise, as it has been well known for a long time that the Azores airline SATA brought two new (not brand new) planes to service the route. Quite why they will be flying from Funchal I am not sure, perhaps the usual airport at Santa Cruz is expected to fall into the sea next year. Cruise ships go to Funchal, not air traffic. You know what I have actually met people who think this island is called Funchal.

Madeira ground-breaker in the inventory of organs. Church organs that is. The inventory of church organs started on Madeira recently is the first of it’s kind in Portugal. It seems a book is to be published ‘Organs of the churches of Madeira’. It must be a job creation scheme? Surely no one is going to buy the book in sufficient numbers to make it a financially viable project.

Today’s sport headline, well two in one actually : Cristiano returns and Barcelona defeat Mourinho – The Madeiran is back tonight in the Champions league. Barcelona shone yesterday. Ronaldo is back for Real Madrid v FC Zurich after injury. Portuguese José Mourinho watched his team Inter Milan lose last night.

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

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TODAY’S PHOTO : Thanks to Jon … Lucy & Gizmo, both adopted from SPAD (Domestic Animal Protection Society). What a pair of posers Jon! They certainly don’t look bovered by anything on this planet!

Sheila sent me this, mainly for the attention of the British readers :  Are we bovered?

"Am I alone in noticing that, despite the sterling efforts of Der and Elaine to bring news items to the Blog, few if any of us seem to have opinions about serious matters, which might be expected to concern us as Brits?

For instance, how do we feel about our dear departed Prime Minister, Tony Blair becoming the first President of the European Council of EU leaders? Do any of us care one way or the other? No?

Well, how about this then. The Lisbon Treaty is almost certain to be ratified after the Czechs were bribed by an opt-out into withdrawing their opposition. Ireland has had two stabs at a referendum because they got it "wrong" and voted "no" the first time. Britain was promised a referendum but we are not going to get one. Do any of us care?
Maybe we can’t do anything to influence the major decisions, which affect all our lives, but do we have to allow ourselves to be rail-roaded into changes, which most of us may not want? Perhaps we are just not "bovered".

I forgot all about Britain some time ago, so not comment from that perspective, but putting a warmonger  in charge of anything to me sends all the wrong messages, and I must admit I didn’t even know about his appointment.  Anyway that aside, like Sheila I always thought it strange that very few people over the last two years were interested enough to make any comments on the daily news, although I have had the impression a few times that some people who are not Madeirans think they don’t have the right to do so. It takes allsorts I suppose, as Bertie Bassett one said. BTW I haven’t had one for years, but those round coconut ones (pink or blue) with liquorice centres were definitely from sweetie heaven. Der

"The Madeira group Siram is looking for partners in Macau to manage casinos in Porto Santo and Cape Verde, and to develop an innovative spa project in Macau, Siram president Silvio Santos told Portuguese news agency Lusa. One of the company’s’ real estate and tourism developers is having difficulties financing its Colombo’s Resort tourism project, in the Madeiran island of Porto Santo, and are looking for partnerships and a new ownership structure focused on the areas of tourism and gambling, to be set up next year. With a current budget of €200 million, Colombo’s Resort, a five star resort to be managed by Starwood, is looking for new investors which may come from Macau, depending on the revival of construction work". MACAU DAILY TIMES

"When considering the size of Madeira, you can hardly imagine that this island has so much to offer!  From many historical monuments, squares and streets in the capital of Funchal to enchanting gardens, picturesque villages, amazing landscapes, impressive volcanic caves, rugged coast lines, beautiful natural beaches and, last but not least, breathtaking views, there is so much to see that you will soon realise that one visit to Madeira just isn’t enough!" A very well written article ATLANTIC QUEST – My journey across the Americas during my Gap Year

Elaine completes a full month with her news translation, without a break. Thanks so much Elaine. Here are yesterday’s main stories :

Pink Christmas trees in fashion this year. Expensive but selling well, according to the manager of ‘Bazar do Povo’ (Sa) in Funchal. They have been selling Christmas decorations since September. —- You heard it first here. Of course. © Toranja Poncha © is also pink, so have yourself a very pinky Christmas time with a tree as well. Der

Requests for help from consumers rise 52%. Requests to Serviço de Defesa do Consumidor (Citizen’s Advice Bureau) for help with financial issues increased 52% this year. Most frequent cases related to credit, often due to changes in family circumstances, e.g. divorce, widowhood, health or unemployment. Also mortgage queries as to which is the best deal.

The association gave the following tips: Prevention is best. Before taking out a loan, work out your budget and whether you can afford it without getting into debt. Avoid credit for everyday expenses. Never borrow to pay off other debts. Never sign a contract unless you understand it. You always need to have some savings.

Business group suspected of fraud began in Caniçal Free Zone. The business group headed by Manuel Godinho, suspected of economic crimes and bribery of managers of public funds, was launched in the Madeira market through a company newly established in the Free Zone, the Resatlantico – Waste Management. All Manuel Godinho’s companies, many of which are linked to business waste and waste management, are based in Aveiro. The only exception seems to be a company formed in May this year in Madeira and is based in the Free Zone in Caniçal. Resatlantico entered the regional market to collect used electrical and electronic equipment for the purposes of dismantling and recycling using facilities on the continent. It has established protocols with AMB3E and municipalities and is licensed by the Directorate for the Environment. It is unknown if the investigations on the continent will affect regional expansion. Manuel Godinho was arrested last Wednesday in Aveiro in relation to economic crimes involving an oxygen-treatment and environmental cleaning group. 14 people were indicted.

Good chestnut harvest. (Interview with a farmer) The harvest is only half done but has already doubled the amount produced in 2008. Increases both in the quantity and quality. Grown in Curral das Freiras and sold in the local shops, in Sao Martinho and sold to the Sã supermarket group. There is a processing centre in Curral das Freiras where the chestnuts are graded then heat treated to preserve them. Are inexpensive this year, selling through an intermediary for 1.20 to 1.40 Euros a kilo and directly to the consumer for 1.60 to 1.70 Euros a kilo. This year, 43% less are imported. The dried fruit price has increased globally. —- As noted in the comments section in the Diário, selling in the Farmer’s Market for 3.99 to 4.10 Euros a kilo.

The Regional Directorate of Agriculture and Rural Development estimates that Madeira has the capacity to produce 764 tonnes per year. The processing plant has graded 33% more than last year and heat treated 160% more since the season started on October 6th. There are 24 producers of organic nuts corresponding to an area of 33.14 hectares, of which 21.53 are in Curral das Freiras and 11.61 in Jardim da Serra.

Court seeks list of projects approved in Ponta do Sol in 2001. The present mayor, Rui Marques and former mayor, António Lobo were in the dock (both PSD politicians) and eight witnesses gave evidence. It involves a 20,000 Euros bribe for approval of a 29 unit apartment block when the Plano Director Municipal (PDM) was suspended. Partners in the firm are former members of the PSD, Emidio Correia and the former Ponta do Sol councillor Antonio Munuel. A witness, a Socialist Party councillor said that councillors of the opposition did not know the legal implications of the suspension of the PDM and had limited access to projects. Approval of this one had been done quickly whereas others took "weeks and months" and other projects were approved in consequence of the suspension of the PDM. At that time he did not realise the building site was controversial. The trial continues on 13 November when Ponta do Sol Council have to send a list of all draft permits for private buildings approved during the year 2001.

Driver of car that collided with two vans identified. He fled the scene and video surveillance tape was released of his grey Polo car. He has contacted the owners of the damaged vans and accepted liability. —- No report of police prosecuting.

Tribute to combatants. On Monday 2 November, there will be a ceremony commemorating combatants who lost their lives on overseas missions. It will be in Nazaré at the Monumento de Homenagem dos Combatentes do Ultramar (in photo). Appeal for serving combatants and the general public to attend to make the greatest possible tribute.

Free bus pass for the elderly back on the parliamentary agenda. This was approved in 1999 but never implemented. The free pass should be given to anyone over 60 who receives an income below the minimum wage. Also aimed at all people with disabilities, regardless of age.

Club Med 2 in port today. A five-masted luxurious cruising yacht joined three other ships to  make another full harbour. She sailed from Casablanca and is going on to the Caribbean. The Club Med Portugal visited the ship. The yacht has recently been renovated with 10 new suites of 36 square metres and it can accommodate 392 tourists.

Porto Santo port promoted as free of charge.  Medicruise (association of cruise ports) meeting in Monaco, where Madeira is gaining membership. Because Porto Santo port is free of charge, companies save between 3,500 and 12,000 Euros depending on tonnage of the vessel and passenger numbers. Funchal has lowered its tariff during the quieter summer months to try to increase business.

C&A want to open a second store in Funchal in the near future. The new store opened yesterday at the Forum Madeira. The group wanted to open a larger store, as they are normally 1400 to 2000 square metres but this one is just over 700 square metres. Yesterday was busy, partially due to curiosity and also because of an opening discount of 20%. —- The papers are a bit late with this one. Quite right Elaine, Josie had already told us having actually checked it out personally yesterday. Der

Valor Ambiente reply to Diário’s report. Diário yesterday had a report highlighting exportation of clinical waste to Spain for incineration. In Jornal da Madeira, the company stated that this is just a temporary solution which is in the public interest until the company who built the incinerator at Meia Serra make alterations to increase productivity and create safer operating conditions, as it is still under warranty. They said this company is paying for the exportation and it is not resulting in extra costs to Valor Ambiente (Government owned) and the Diário is just being critical of the Government.

Direct debits can be paid into a bank account in another EU country. From Monday but not available immediately in all 27 countries. This is under the SEPA (Single Euro Payments) system developed in 2008 to simplify payments through bank transfers, direct debits and bank cards in the Eurozone. Customers in the Single Area will also be able to make and receive payments in Euros under the same conditions as they do nationally.

A quick look at today’s front page news headlines in the Diário :

‘PS proposes an educational revolution – André Escórcio is the project author. Not that this idea will go anywhere, as it’s not a PSD idea, but the gist is to offer free education at all levels, and cut support to private and small independent schools, and then to create a more autonomous education system, with its own characteristics, without impinging on the general principles of law.

Failures in the management of hazardous waste lead CDU to ask for an inquiry. A story which Elaine has covered well in the last couple of days, and it seems a plausible reason has been given, that satisfies accusations made in a possible case of mischief-making by the Diário.

The main headline today : Armas operation is illegal – The Port and Maritime Transport Authorities have concluded that the loading operation undertaken by the Spanish vessel in Funchal Port is in breach of the rules. The license is at risk. The unloading of freight in Funchal Port from the passenger ferry that does the Madeira – Portimão – Canary Islands route has been deemed to breach licence conditions it seems. The situation arose after complaints from other shipping companies who had been forced to load and unload elsewhere, whilst the passenger ferry could continue freight operations unhindered. That could bump up the costs of the passenger ferry service somewhat, as that would have been a big piece of income for Naviera Armas, or even put the whole operation at risk. As for the next step, I reckon the government will step in and intervene, as the ferry service just cannot be put at risk.

A large picture shows a graveyard with some estrelicia flowers : No one dares to mess with the rules of the cemeteries – The 40 year old regulations provide great breeding conditions for the mosquito that spreads dengue disease. The health authorities prefer to respect the cult and its rituals.

‘Fly Madeira’ commences flying next Tuesday – Transporting cargo will mark the start of operations of the new airline company. It will be better known as FlyMI (Fly Madeira Islands), and on Tuesday it will fly a cargo from Lisbon to Madeira in it’s inaugural flight in a leased Boeing 737-300. Phase one of the formation for FlyMI is freight, passengers will come later through scheduled and charter flights.

In football : Nacional and Marítimo want to imitate Braga. Victory over Benfica results in clear league leadership for Braga. Today the teams from Madeira play, with TV honours. And what a great game and result it was (2 – 0), and how wonderful it was to see those Benfica supporters ,who were gloating over putting 6 goals past Nacional last week, crying in their beer. Benfica were the stronger side, but Braga played a strategy to outwit them, and it worked very well. Fantastic first goal as well.

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. 

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

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TODAY’S PHOTO : Thanks to Vic … The inbound flight from Caracas, Venezuela

I have never seen this website before, but it has some nice photos to which it seems you can add your own FOTOPEDIA

I was reading a website yesterday about property prices, that claimed that Madeira property prices "survived the downturn relatively unscathed and is (are) already looking at some growth now things are recovering". It also says that "Madeira offers a unique opportunity to buy property in the safety of an established property market, amidst the climate, growth potential and low living costs of an African nation". What absolute BS. I won’t even put a link to the article on the site as I usually do. Whether that is a foreigners perspective of the property market here, or just marketing BS I don’t know, but anyone considering buying here should be aware that the island economy and property market is still in recession. As for an African nation cost of living, generally speaking, that would explain the starvation, poverty and poor health suffered by many in Africa if they have to  pay Madeiran prices with African wages (I am of course referring to the underdeveloped parts of Africa).

"Fancy pan-fried frogs legs with chervil sauce or steamed wild sea bass with oyster tartar? These are just two of the creations Chef Antoine Westermann spoils his guests with at The Vine, Design Hotels™’ newest member hotel in Madeira. At UVA, the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, the award-winning chef creates fusion cuisine at its best. Locals have also discovered this gem – for its culinary delights as well as the spectacular views". According to the article they have a dog cooking the restaurant specialities, and I wondered if they are also serving any Korean dishes to the "Locals (who) have also discovered this gem". Bit out of my price range I suspect, and I certainly suspect its prices put it out of the reach of the vast vast majority of the local population. FROG LEGS A LA WOOF

Trindade reappointed as Secretary of State for Tourism – Socrates rewards work done in the last mandate. Prime Minister José Sócrates will bring in Madeira’s Bernardo Trindade as Secretary of State for Tourism. The Daily News of Lisbon says that the reappointment is the recognition of work done during the last legislative term. Trinidade currently occupies his place in the National Assembly as a deputy elected by the PS-M socialists in September, and will be replaced next week by Miguel França, number two on the election list submitted by the PS-M. The ‘swearing in’ of Secretaries of State is scheduled for next Saturday. That can only be good news for Madeira, it’s just a great pity that president Jardim gives the impression that he hates his guts. Welcome back Bernie-the-Bolt.

Many thanks to Elaine for this huge news contribution from yesterday :

Road construction in São Vicente begins with the police and a shot in the air. There was no official notification by the municipality that the construction of the road  between Feiteiras and Levada do Poio in Sao Vicente would begin. Confusion started at 14.30 when Jose Mendes was informed that his land was being "invaded by strangers". He went to the land but was too late as the bulldozer had already started and he has lodged an injunction for an immediate halt. He heard a shot but does not know who fired the bullet. The construction workers gave an alternative story, that they were warned via their mobile phones that locals were heading their way. This was collaborated by locals who said the owner of the land, enraged, left his car and was in possession of a firearm. João José Mendes says he does not know who the contractor is as there are no identifying signs. The council, annoyed, later tried to contact the president and executive of the services department but everybody was in a meeting. There was criticism about the time the police took to respond and it is for the bulldozer driver to decide whether to make a complaint against the person who fired the shot. The Diário could not get a reply from the mayor of the council, Humberto Vasconcelos.

Government is considering privatizing the Professional School of Hospitality and Tourism. Of the 4.5 million Euros a year, €2.5 million are for staff costs and €1.8 million for goods and services. The Department of Education and Culture is considering a public tender for privatization as many firms provide similar qualifications at less cost. The school has 460 students, 318 in residence and 50 staff. It was founded in 1967 and became under the Regional Educational Department in 1983 and a new building inaugurated in 1997. The building contains a 4 star hotel with 20 rooms for training purposes, and the qualifications are recognized by local businesses.

Controversy over Portugal’s new Government legalizing same-sex ‘marriages’. The Catholic Church and some people representing Madeira in Parliament disagree with the new law, especially as it is to be a priority when they think there are other more pressing concerns, e.g. economic difficulties. Regarding the possibility of a referendum, a representative of the Diocese of Funchal said, "If it is tabled in Parliament, it will be presented many times until they approve." The legislation was proposed by the BE (Left Block) on grounds of non-discrimination and freedom. The Socialist Party said it would be debated at the ‘"appropriate time", especially as the Socialist Government in Portugal has a relative majority, which means dialogue. The CDS-PP think a legal safeguard of rights is needed but not the term ‘marriage’. The Social Democrats think prioritizing it is "scandalous" and "an insult" when the "country is in crisis" and that the term ‘marriage’ is inappropriate in a secular society.

Collision at Quinta Grande damaged two parked cars. A car damaged two vans at dawn, about 04.15 on the 15th October and did not stop. Surveillance video (shown) has been released and it is thought to be a metallic grey Polo. The police and owners are appealing for information.

Nurses unhappy. Regarding the recent changes in management and the way nurses are not consulted about changes, a petition is circulating the health service. They worry that what has happened with doctors (sudden dismissal via phone) and now with nurses will spread to other health professionals. A meeting of the Union of Nurses representatives with the Regional Secretary for Social Affairs is set for October 30th, when career changes will also be discussed. —- Usual internal politics and management making all the decisions. More strikes?

An "environmental attack" in the construction of the promenade in the zone of Soccoridos.  The Municipal Council of Funchal have complained about the amount of gravel put down, needed for construction machines, which they think will wash into the sea and cause pollution. They say the level is higher than the contractor SMD originally stated and have sent a report to the Regional Department of the Environment and Maritime Police.

Collision between three cars and a motorcycle. No casualties but damage to the vehicles. It occurred at rush hour yesterday afternoon at the entrance to the Funchal – Machico expressway at Santo António and a 15 km queue formed.

The post of the Representative of the Republic is in jeopardy. Monteiro Diniz is the Representative, and a lawyer and has made comments about legalities of some actions of the Regional Government, in the newspaper Expresso. After such comments and his distance from the present Regional Government, the PSD-M and Jardim now want to end his position. His comments about the legality of the removal of the Socialist  Victor Freitas from the Legislative Assembly have not helped. (It depends on which parts of two conflicting laws you apply). Victor Freitas said, "What happens in the Legislative Assembly of Madeira is that democracy is suspended, the PSD does what it wants, does not comply with the Constitution or the Regulations of the Region." He said that the rules were subverted illegally, "This must be one of the worst situations that has attended the Regional Assembly." Diniz is not commenting publically, responding to Jardim’s letter in private, which accused him and the Portuguese Government of outrageous colonial imposition and dividing the people of Madeira.

Cunha e Silva meets with Barroso and urges his support for the region. The Vice President of the Region presented Barroso with an 80-page memorandum highlighting the importance of maintaining European Union support for the production of tradable goods, agricultural production, fisheries, energy, tourism and transport. "I tried to raise with the President of the European Commission the need to simplify the procedures and rules of access to funds."  The other Presidents of the Autonomous Regions at the meeting in Brussels were also optimistic about  Barroso’s support as he is knowledgeable about the issues surrounding the Portuguese autonomous regions. I know what I would do with an 80 page memorandum, and it wouldn’t involve any reading. As for simplifying the access to European funding Cunha e Silva must be joking. The rules are there to make sure European taxpayers money is allocated fairly and properly where most needed, and with Madeira’s record in bogus applications for funds and misusing them, the EU should make Madeira a special case and tighten the rules even more. Der

Jardim just wants justice. In the official reception to the Committee on Regional Development of the European Parliament, Jardim also re-iterated the need for continuity of funding, especially in the transport sector and specific legislation for the Free Zone. "We do not want privileges, we just want justice. We have reached a good level of development, but we need continuity. Just because the GDP has reached a high level, it does not mean that we do not need more." In response, the Greek delegation member praised the projects they had visited and saw their positive impact on the development of the island, although he had some reservations about the future allotment of funds. The airport, wind farm and water distribution network were seen to be good implementation of EU funds. —- They are worried as Madeira has exceeded 75% of GDP (gross domestic product) per capita of the EU average. This means it is no longer eligible for continuation of the present EU support after 2014. The Free Zone ends in 2011 (tax haven).

Easyjet carried 25% more passengers than expected on the Lisbon – Funchal route. In October 2008, they predicted 152,000 in the first year but flew 190,000 people. An average of 16,000 a month and an occupancy rate of 86%. It is in the second position in numbers of passengers flown via Madeira Airport, increasing its market quota from 7.5% to 13.4%.

Madeira invited to join Medicruise, the largest association of Mediterranean cruise ports. Formal entry will be at the 35th General Assembly in Monaco. This is important for the growth of the industry in Madeira and as a seasonal tourist destination. The 72  most important ports of the Mediterranean and surrounding areas are in the organization. Madeira joining will help maintain the sustainable growth of the cruise ships and passenger port, and break the summer seasonality. It will help promotion, and influencing regulation and monitoring by the European Council. Lisbon, Portimão and the Azores are already members.

Regional Secretary of Tourism and Transport wants subsidies to residents for travel between the autonomous regions and the continent. Wants the new Government of the Republic to give a more fairer subsidy to people travelling by either air or boat. Also need to resolve issues about maintaining the investments in the fishing port at Caniçal and Madeira Airport.

Santa Cruz Council wants more police in Nogueira. The council is assessing the situation and has spoken to the Regional Command of the PSP, especially after the attack on a fireman. Want to be able to resolve issues before violence occurs. The mayor did not deny a drug trafficking problem and gang fights, but also spoke of the work done by the Community Centre and that it is generally a good neighbourhood with some situations arising giving it a bad image. —- No motive for the attack on the fireman given. I do not know if the police have any information about who was involved.

More about the Gerontology Plan. The idea is to promote autonomy and independence to keep people in their own homes, rather than residential care. Admits there is not enough resources and this is only the beginning. One major part of the plan is to make health care more easily accessible through the regional health centres by determining present limitations. Early diagnosis of elderly-related illnesses and health education about them, and priority treatment for chronic illnesses to prevent future complications. Opportunities for both paid and unpaid voluntary work. The elderly will have a right to choice in the context of the end of life. There will also be creation of legal representation for the elderly, and a hotline in case of abuse. More social facilities and the re-structuring of help services. There will be community-based care and informal carers will be trained and regulated by law, at present there are 72. Small local residential units will be created and support networks developed for dementia and dependence.

Anyone recognise this from 16 years ago, exactly to the day?

Eight people died as a result of the floods of 29th October 1993.

Mud, debris, and rubble ‘todo o lado’. Heavy rains made rivers overflow, and eight people were carried away by the force of the waters.

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