The Socialist Party (PS) in Madeira has proposed a new legal regime for silvopastoral activities, arguing that grazing is a crucial tool for fire prevention and territorial management.
Sílvia Silva, who presented the decree, highlighted that the island was deprived of grazing as a tool for territorial management and fire prevention for over two decades due to political decisions. The PS criticizes the current model of firebreak management, deeming it ineffective and a waste of public funds.
The proposal aims to regulate grazing, providing security for the territory and fairness for shepherds. The objective is to restore dignity to shepherds, promote sustainable livestock growth, and ensure a legal framework for a profitable and conflict-free activity, including remuneration for the public service provided.
The proposed regime aligns with the integrated rural fire management system, focusing on reducing fuel load through cleared areas. The PS emphasizes the need for legislative changes to implement an effective model, as current legislation, focused on prohibiting clandestine grazing, lacks incentive mechanisms or technical planning for the activity as an independent component of forest management.
