The Portuguese government's proposal to establish the new National Unit for Foreigners and Borders (UNEF) within the PSP was approved this Friday in a specialized committee. The vote saw support from PSD, Chega, IL, and CDS, with the left abstaining. Additionally, amendments to the foreigners' law—which impose restrictions on family reunification and visas for those entering the country illegally—were also approved, despite left-wing protests over the lack of time to review mandatory opinions. The final vote on these diplomas is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16.
A political standoff between Chega and PSD delayed the vote by three hours, centering on a proposed supplement payment for agents of the new PSP unit. Chega advocated for the supplement, while PSD rejected it, calling the proposal "opportunistic" and a source of inequality among police officers. A last-minute amendment redefined UNEF as a "special unit" rather than a "specialized unit," a change accepted by PSD and CDS.
Restrictions on Family Reunification and Visas Advance
Changes to the foreigners' law, including stricter family reunification rules and visa issuance for illegal entrants, were approved with right-wing votes. Chega initially proposed a 10-year ban on residency visas for illegal entrants but later reduced it to five years, extendable to seven under certain conditions. The left criticized the process for lacking mandatory opinions from judicial bodies, citing legal and ethical concerns.
Missing Opinions and Ethical Concerns
Key opinions from the Superior Council of the Judiciary (CSM) and the Superior Council of Administrative and Fiscal Courts (CSTAF) were absent due to tight deadlines. The CSM stated it couldn't issue an opinion in such a short timeframe, while the CSTAF requested 10 more days. The left argued that proceeding without these opinions was "unethical" and risked "contaminating" the legislation.
The Independent Union of Police Agents submitted a document advocating for the supplement, arguing that adequate salaries are essential to maintain "ethical" standards and prevent corruption among border guards.
Final votes on related matters, including consultations with constitutional experts and associations working with foreigners, were postponed to Wednesday.
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