Montenegro Awaits Constitutional Approval but Vows to Push Forward with Immigration Regulation

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro expressed confidence in a favorable ruling from the Constitutional Court after President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa referred the foreign nationals law for urgent preventive constitutional review, requesting a decision within 15 days. However, Montenegro emphasized that regardless of the outcome, Portugal's determination to regulate immigration will not wane.

The decree in question, passed by Parliament, modifies rules governing the entry, stay, and departure of immigrants. The President has raised constitutional concerns over seven provisions, particularly regarding family reunification for foreign citizens.

Speaking at the 51st anniversary of the Social Democratic Youth in Esmoriz, Montenegro assured that the government would not be swayed by "more or less heated campaigns from those not entrusted by the Portuguese people with the representativeness they often display."

Montenegro described the law's referral for constitutional assessment as "a perfectly normal procedure," expressing belief in the Constitutional Court's impartiality despite media pressures. He stated, "If the ruling is unfavorable, the world won't end, Portugal won't end, and our resolve to regulate immigration won't end either."

"The Agenda is Ours, Let That Be Clear"

Montenegro dismissed claims that the government is following other parties' agendas, asserting, "The agenda is ours, clearly outlined in our electoral and Government Program." He addressed immigrants directly, stating that regulated immigration primarily benefits them, a sentiment he claims is shared by many immigrants he meets.

The Prime Minister highlighted the need for more young Portuguese in the country and additional workers in the labor market and economy, stressing the importance of "more regulation, more rules, and consequences for non-compliance."