PSD's Promises for a Stronger Portugal
Luís Montenegro, the president of the PSD, presented the electoral program of the Aliança Democrática (AD) coalition in a press conference at the Lisbon Congress Center. He assured the Portuguese that they can rely on the team spirit of a coalition that functions so well it seems like a single party, committed to serving the nation.
Economic Stability Amid Global Instability
Despite global instabilities, Montenegro stated that "Portugal is doing well", enjoying economic and financial stability, while criticizing the opposition for attempting to destabilize the country and pushing for early elections.
Key Election Promises
Montenegro emphasized the importance of responsibility and realism in governance. He reiterated commitments for the upcoming legislative elections on May 18, highlighting the achievements of the AD government in health and education while blaming public service degradation for unresolved issues in the past year.
- Salary Increases: The program promises to raise the minimum wage to €1,100 (currently €870) and the average wage to €2,000 by the end of the next legislative term. There is also a pledge that no pensioner will earn less than €870 by 2029.
- Tax Cuts: Montenegro announced plans for an immediate reduction of income taxes, particularly benefitting the middle class, amounting to €2 billion, with €500 million expected next year. The program includes a gradual cut in the IRC (Corporate Income Tax) to 17% and 15% for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Investment in Defense
Montenegro also revealed plans for increased investment in defense, aimed at stimulating the Portuguese economy without compromising public spending on social policies, health, education, and culture. He stressed that investment should not be confused with mere expenditure, focusing on creating related industries.
Combating Crime
The PSD leader proposed legal reforms to ensure that serious crimes are judged quickly and pledged to enhance community policing, particularly in urban centers.
Housing, Immigration, and Health
Regarding public housing, Montenegro aims to ensure funding for local housing strategies, targeting the construction of 136,000 new homes. He also called for stricter immigration rules to ensure decent housing and employment contracts for newcomers. On healthcare, he claimed that the National Health Service (SNS) is now more robust and efficient than a year ago, with plans to enhance maternal and child care services.
Montenegro concluded with a campaign mantra: "Portugal is doing well, but nothing is guaranteed, and the country cannot afford to stop."
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