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Politics · Funchal · 11 September 2026

ADN Madeira Proposes Using Ferry Cargo Capacity to Reduce Public Subsidy

ADN Madeira suggests utilizing the ferry's unused capacity for cargo transport to boost revenue and decrease public subsidies.

ADN Madeira Proposes Using Ferry Cargo Capacity to Reduce Public Subsidy

ADN Madeira proposes an adaptation to the financing model for the regular maritime link between Madeira and the mainland, suggesting that the ferry's idle capacity during periods of lower demand be used for rolling cargo transport.

According to the party, this measure would increase operational revenue, thereby reducing the necessary public compensation and the burden on taxpayers. The proposal aims to complement the 75/25 financing model already advocated by ADN Madeira, which stipulates that the Republic covers 75% of the net compensation and the Autonomous Region of Madeira up to 25%.

The party argues that the additional revenue generated by cargo should be factored into the service's accounts, reducing the amount to be borne by public funds. ADN Madeira also advocates that the future contract should not be based on a fixed compensation to the operator, but rather that the public amount supported should be inversely proportional to the revenue generated from passengers, vehicles, and cargo.

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