The Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) party asserts that the recent identification and closure of an illegal pig farm, which was discharging improperly into a tributary of Ribeira do Vigário, confirms their long-standing calls for scrutiny and oversight in the area.
JPP recalls that in March, they submitted a request for a parliamentary hearing concerning the bathing water quality of Praia do Vigário and the river's watershed, a request that was rejected by the PSD. Later, in May 2026, Praia do Vigário was temporarily closed to swimming due to microbiological contamination, adding to a previous closure in June 2025.
Miguel Ganança, a JPP deputy, criticized the lack of timely response, despite the situation being previously flagged and recurrent. The party now demands clarification from the Câmara de Lobos Municipal Council regarding when they became aware of the issue, what actions were taken, and why it has only now been resolved, also inquiring about any other unidentified pollution sources.
JPP emphasizes that although the beach is currently safe for swimming, past closures and the 'Acceptable' water quality rating should not be overlooked, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and enforcement.
