The Union of Public Prosecutors (SMMP) has declared a general strike on July 9 and 10, alongside three regional strike days on July 11, 14, and 15. This action is expected to disrupt the normal operations of the Public Prosecutor's Office, potentially delaying trials.
Paulo Lona, SMMP's president, acknowledged the strike's impact, stating, "Some trials will not take place." The strike aims to oppose a new policy allowing prosecutors to handle civil, criminal, and family cases simultaneously, a move criticized as "illegal," "unfair," and detrimental to prosecutors' specialization.
The controversy stems from a decision by the Superior Council of the Public Prosecutor's Office (CSMP), which prosecutors argue creates a "multitask" and generalist role, undermining years of specialization efforts. Despite negotiations and minor adjustments to the policy, the SMMP has deemed the dialogue exhausted, leading to the strike announcement.
The strike reflects deep divisions within Portugal's legal system, with prosecutors arguing the new policy increases workload and compromises service quality. The SMMP's strong stance indicates high participation, signaling significant disruptions ahead.
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