Portugal Mourns the Loss of Octávio Félix de Oliveira, Social Security Institute President

Sudden Passing of a Key Public Figure

Octávio Félix de Oliveira, the president of the Instituto da Segurança Social (ISS) and former Secretary of State for Employment under Passos Coelho, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 65 after a prolonged illness, as confirmed by an official source from the overseeing ministry to Lusa.

Confirmation and Initial Reports

The news was first reported by the Jornal de Abrantes and later verified by the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity, and Social Security.

Prime Minister's Tribute

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro expressed deep sorrow over the death, stating that Portugal "owes him much" for his "exemplary work" in public roles, particularly his dedication to the social sector. In a social media post, Montenegro highlighted Oliveira's contributions and extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of himself and the Portuguese Government to the family and friends.

Career and Appointment Background

Oliveira, who held a degree in Business Organization and Management from the Technical University of Lisbon, had been serving as the president of the Social Security Institute since May 22, 2024. He succeeded Ana Vasques, who resigned following controversies over IRS withholding on pensions and perceived lack of government confidence in her work.

Previously, from 2013 to 2015, he was the Secretary of State for Employment in the governments of Pedro Passos Coelho and chaired the Board of Directors of the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP) from 2011 to 2013. In these capacities, he represented Portugal in international bodies such as the OECD, the LEED Committee, the Advisory Committee on Free Movement of Workers, and the EU Employment Committee.

Professional Journey and Education

Starting as a senior technician at IEFP in 1987, Oliveira held various leadership positions in both central and regional centers. His roles included director of the Vocational Training Center for the Ceramics Industry in Caldas da Rainha (2005-2011) and director of the Vocational Training Center for Electronics, Energy, Telecommunications, and Information Technologies (2016-2024).

Additionally, he served as a teaching assistant at the University of Beira Interior from 1985 to 1987 and at the School of Management of the Polytechnic Institute of Santarém in 1994, 1997, and 1998.

Octávio Félix de Oliveira was born in Tramagal on May 18, 1960.