Health Minister Confirms Sérgio Janeiro as Candidate for INEM Presidency Amidst Criticism

Health Minister's Announcement

Ana Paula Martins, the Minister of Health, announced today that Sérgio Janeiro, the interim president of INEM, will be one of the candidates in the ongoing selection process for the presidency of the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM). This announcement comes after criticism from social-democrat Luís Marques Mendes, who suggested that the minister might soon be replaced and that Janeiro is currently in a precarious position.

INEM's Recruitment Process

Martins emphasized that the CRESAP (Commission for Recruitment and Selection for Public Administration) has finally opened the competition for the position, stating, "There will be candidates for the contest and certainly Sérgio Janeiro, who has been acting in a temporary capacity since July, will be one of those candidates."

Improving INEM's Response Capacity

The Minister reiterated her commitment to restoring INEM's operational capabilities in the shortest possible time, ensuring that people feel secure that INEM will not fail them as it has in recent years. She mentioned, "What matters most right now is that people at home feel that INEM will indeed respond to their needs."

Pressing Issues Facing INEM

Martins acknowledged the seasonal increase in emergency service demands as winter approaches, noting that many individuals seek urgent care even when it may not be necessary. She stated, "The difficulties we face in managing emergencies have heavily burdened INEM."

Ongoing Investigations into INEM's Operations

The Minister also addressed the seven investigations opened by the Public Ministry regarding deaths potentially linked to INEM's response failures. Additionally, the General Inspectorate of Health Activities (IGAS) has initiated an inquiry into delays in emergency call responses, exacerbated during a recent one-week strike by Emergency Medical Technicians (TEPH). This strike coincided with a public sector strike on November 4 but was suspended following a negotiation protocol between the government and the sector's union.

Response to Criticism

When pressed by journalists about calls for her resignation from opposition parties, Martins acknowledged the public's concern for reliable emergency response, stating, "This is my mission and function as long as the Prime Minister deems it so."