A column published by Funchal Notícias by Rui Marote criticises the state of stone and wooden benches on Rua Fernão de Ornelas and in squares in central Funchal. The author says they serve as overnight shelter for homeless people.
According to the piece, the furniture is sometimes soiled with urine and faeces, and municipal cleaning is neither daily nor thorough. The author warns of exposure to germs and disease, noting that residents, elderly people and tourists use the benches during the day.
The author says formal complaints have been made and calls for daily disinfection and a dignified social response for people living on the street. The article does not include a response from the municipal council or social services.