CHEGA Member of Parliament Francisco Gomes has denounced alleged instances of pressure, intimidation, and persecution within various fire departments on the mainland and in the autonomous regions.
Gomes stated he has received testimonies from firefighters reporting reprisals for demanding better working conditions, transparent management, and more responsible leadership. The complaints describe humiliation, isolation, abuse of authority, and differential treatment for those who question internal decisions or expose problems.
The parliamentarian finds it concerning that disciplinary mechanisms might be used to intimidate or remove perceived troublesome elements, advocating for thorough investigations. He also warned about the physical and emotional toll on firefighters, emphasizing that adding internal persecution to their demanding duties is unacceptable and can harm their mental and physical health. He calls for increased oversight, independent complaint mechanisms, and protection for whistleblowing firefighters.
