The New Right has criticised the Regional Government’s announcement of a €13 million investment to create around 85 residential care places for older people, arguing that the figures raise questions about the management of public funds in Madeira.
In a statement, the party’s regional coordinator, Paulo Azevedo, said the investment equates to an estimated cost of around €154,762 per care place, arguing that it is legitimate to question whether the expenditure is proportionate to the expected benefits.
The party claims that the same amount could instead fund the construction of around 180 affordable homes or approximately 50 high-end properties, arguing that the comparison highlights the need for a wider debate on public spending priorities.
The New Right also says any assessment should take into account the average length of stay in residential care homes, which it estimates at between three and five years. While acknowledging that places are continually filled by new residents, the party argues there are still questions over the long-term financial sustainability of the model and the overall return on public investment.
In the statement, Azevedo said Madeira faces multiple challenges, including the housing crisis and the needs of older people in vulnerable circumstances. He argued that the Regional Government should pursue policies capable of benefiting a greater number of people while ensuring public money is used as efficiently as possible.
The party also called for greater transparency, accountability and scrutiny over public expenditure, arguing that taxpayers have a right to know how public funds are being allocated. It further contends that current policies may not adequately address the needs of the Region’s ageing population and has called for a reassessment of investment priorities.
Concluding the statement, Azevedo said Madeirans “have the right to know clearly how every euro of their taxes is being spent.”
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
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