Former deputy and regional secretary Francisco Jardim Ramos described the 50-year assessment of Madeira's Autonomy and Legislative Assembly as "very positive." Speaking at the commemorative session for the regional parliament's 50th anniversary, representing former deputies, he emphasized the profound economic and social transformation of the Region over the past five decades.
Jardim Ramos recalled Madeira before Autonomy, marked by high infant mortality, diseases, illiteracy, and isolation. He acknowledged the work of several generations and mentioned Alberto João Jardim as "the greatest autonomist of all."
Stating that the debt incurred for projects "was worth it," the former deputy argued that future generations should honor the legacy and continue to defend Autonomy, calling for the preservation of the "flame of Autonomy."
