Funchal continues to be the scene of inappropriate tourist behaviour, as has been widely reported. Situations such as tents set up in picnic parks and viewpoints, tourists strolling in bikinis through the main streets of the city, using public roads to dry clothes, and bathing in historic fountains are just some of the daily trials that local residents are having to put up with.
In this context, in a press release, Liana Reis, Regional Coordinator of the Reagir Incluir Reciclar Party (RIR), criticised the lack of measures to curb these practices and pointed the finger at the President of the Regional Government, Miguel Albuquerque.
Liana Reis says that Miguel Albuquerque prioritises luxury tourism, leaving aside those who cannot afford to pay high prices to stay on the island. The coordinator also highlighted that the end of campsites is a reflection of the inadequate management of mass tourism.
Reis suggests that the concern with the “image” and the “Madeira brand” prevents inappropriate attitudes from being sanctioned, since this could damage the reputation that is being promoted. According to the same source, the lack of actions to protect the interests of Madeirans makes residents feel relegated to the background. “After all, our island belongs to the ‘owners of it all’ and not to those who work hard for the economic and social growth of Madeira.”
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Photo: JM Archives
