The Regional Command of the PSP of Madeira carried out, in the early afternoon of Friday, the 23rd of May, an inspection at a retail establishment, located on Rua 31 de Janeiro, in Funchal. The operation was conducted by the Foreigners and Border Control Unit, within the scope of its powers to control the legal stay of foreign citizens in the national territory.
During the inspection, the agents detected that the basement of the establishment, officially intended as a warehouse, was illegally used as an overnight space and daily residence by four employees of the store. The accommodation area was extremely deficient with regard to hygiene and habitability, in clear violation of legal and public health standards.
In view of the seriousness of the situation, the Regional Authority for Economic Activities (ARAE) and the Health Delegate of the Municipality of Funchal were called out immediately. After a technical assessment on site, the authorities determined the immediate and indefinite closure of the commercial space until the legal conditions for its operation are met.
At the same time, steps were taken to ensure the rehousing of the four foreign citizens, who were within the legal immigration framework and holders of valid Residence Permits.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Photo: PSP
