Lisbon's Political Clash Over Local Accommodation: PSD/CDS-PP Rejects PS Proposal to Extend Suspension

Political Tensions Rise in Lisbon Over Local Accommodation Regulations

In a heated session at the Lisbon City Council, the PSD/CDS-PP leadership refused to vote on a proposal from the PS (Socialist Party) to maintain the suspension of new local accommodation registrations. This decision has sparked significant debate, with implications for the city's housing and tourism sectors.

Background and Key Arguments

The PSD/CDS-PP coalition emphasized that the Municipal Regulation for Local Accommodation (RMAL), approved in 2019, has "never ceased to be in force." They argued that the PS proposal was drafted without considering the public discussion report on amendments to the RMAL, which concluded on April 15, potentially compromising its legality.

"The suspension is in effect until November 7, and all necessary procedures will be safeguarded to maintain this suspension until the approval of the proposed changes to the RMAL," stated the PSD/CDS-PP leadership in response to Lusa news agency.

Criticisms and Accusations

PS councilor Pedro Anastácio accused the PSD/CDS-PP management of failing, citing a lack of foresight and leadership. "We have a municipal management that is failing, from daily decisions to structural challenges that determine the city's future," he declared.

The PCP (Portuguese Communist Party) labeled the regulation of local accommodation in Lisbon as "a story of delays with serious consequences for the city." They highlighted that both PS and PSD/CDS-PP have contributed to protractions, risking the end of current containment measures in November.

Implications and Future Steps

The new regulation proposes a city-wide ratio of 5% between local accommodation and existing housing units, as suggested by the PS in the Municipal Housing Charter. With Lisbon already exceeding this threshold, it would suspend new licenses. However, without approval of the amendments, the suspension's continuity is uncertain, especially with the upcoming local elections on October 12.

Citizens for Lisbon (elected by the PS/Livre coalition) accused Mayor Carlos Moedas of delaying the process, claiming he does not want to control local accommodation.

This ongoing dispute underscores the complexities of balancing tourism growth with housing affordability in Lisbon, a key issue for residents and policymakers alike.