Leonardo Reis, a member of the JPP's National Political Commission, advocated for the economic viability of a regular sea link between Madeira and the mainland during the party's parliamentary days.
Reis recalled past experiences with sea connections, such as the operation of the ship 'Funchal' in 1985 and a later operation that, in 2011, transported 11% of the goods moved on the island. He pointed to a 20% increase in port fees in 2011 as a factor that harmed the operation.
According to JPP, a ferry would increase competition in goods transport, potentially leading to a reduction in transport costs and, consequently, in the final price of essential goods and materials for the region, such as those used in civil construction. Cargo transport is seen as the main potential, with passenger transport as a complement.
