ᐅ NEWS from Portugal » Let's Learn Portuguese

Protest in Lisbon Targets Elon Musk's Role

2025-03-10T09:41:40+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

No domingo, em Lisboa, houve uma pequena manifestação contra Elon Musk. Dez pessoas estiveram perto de uma loja da Tesla com cartazes . Criticam Musk por apoiar o governo dos Estados Unidos. Este protesto faz parte de um movimento internacional contra ele. Tesla é a marca de carro mais valiosa, mas seu valor de mercado diminuiu.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

On Sunday in Lisbon, there was a small protest against Elon Musk. Ten people were near a Tesla store with placards. They criticise Musk for supporting the United States government. This protest is part of an international movement against him. Tesla is the most valuable car brand, but its market value has decreased.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did the protest against Elon Musk take place?

The protest took place in Lisbon.

Question 2: What did the protesters do near the Tesla store?

The protesters held signs.

Exercise: Vocabulary

manifestação (f.) - demonstration

cartaz (m.) - posters

criticar - criticise

apoiar - support

protesto (m.) - protest

movimento (m.) - movement

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▌10/03/2025

A small protest against Elon Musk took place in Lisbon on Sunday, as approximately ten individuals gathered near a Tesla showroom. This demonstration was part of a larger international wave of protests, aiming to express discontent with Musk's involvement with the Trump administration and his policy initiatives.

The protesters, maintaining a silent vigil, held placards with slogans such as, "United States: A Government Without Two Fingers of Tesla" and "Go to Siberia! Have fun!" These messages highlight opposition to Musk’s perceived influence and actions, particularly those related to budget cuts in public spending through the Department of Efficiency and Government (DOGE).

Protest in Lisbon Targets Elon Musk's Role (Illustration)

This gathering in Lisbon was one of many that occurred globally, following over 50 similar protests in the United States, United Kingdom, and Spain. These events reflect a growing backlash in both North America and Europe against Musk's policies. According to reports, liberal groups have been organizing these demonstrations in a bid to sway public opinion and galvanize opposition amid lingering disenchantment following Trump’s electoral success.

There are reports of incidents such as Tesla cars being vandalized with offensive symbols, potentially escalating tensions among vehicle owners. Despite these issues, Tesla remains the most valuable car manufacturer globally, although its stock value has decreased by nearly a third since Trump's presidency began.

Musk's personal wealth has also seen a decline. As per Forbes, his net worth has dropped by $8.8 billion to $342.8 billion. This marks a significant reduction from the peak of $464 billion recorded in December 2024, correlating to a downturn in Tesla’s share price.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a dedicated language school committed to helping individuals learn to speak Portuguese effectively. We offer a variety of online courses designed to support learners at all stages of their language journey.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across Portugal

2025-03-08T08:47:03+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O IPMA emitiu alerta laranja para 11 distritos de Portugal e Madeira devido a condições marítimas severas e neve. Em regiões como Aveiro e Lisboa, espera-se agitação no mar. O distrito de Guarda terá neve. O alerta começa no dia 7 e vai até 10 de fevereiro. As pessoas devem ter cuidado com o tempo.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The IPMA has issued an orange warning for 11 districts in Portugal and Madeira due to severe sea conditions and snow. Regions such as Aveiro and Lisbon are expected to experience turbulent seas. The district of Guarda will have snow. The warning begins on the 7th and continues until the 10th of February. People are advised to take care with the weather.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Which regions in Portugal are expected to have rough sea conditions?

Aveiro and Lisbon.

Question 2: When is the severe weather alert in effect?

From February 7th to 10th.

Exercise: Vocabulary

emitir - to issue

alerta (m.) - alert

condição (f.) - conditions

severo - severe

região (f.) - regions

distrito (m.) - district

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▌08/03/2025

The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued an orange alert for 11 districts on the mainland and the autonomous region of Madeira due to expected severe maritime conditions and snowfall. This heightened warning comes amid the impact of the Jana depression.

Districts like Aveiro, Beja, Braga, Coimbra, Faro, Leiria, Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal, and Viana do Castelo, along with northern Madeira and the Porto Santo coast, face significant sea disturbances. Additionally, the districts of Castelo Branco and Guarda are under a similar alert due to anticipated snowfall.

Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been declared for several regions, including the Central and Eastern Azores, Vila Real and Viseu due to strong winds, and Évora, Portalegre, and Santarém in anticipation of heavy precipitation. In Bragança, the warning is for snow, while the Western Azores group prepares for maritime unrest.

Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across Portugal (Illustration)

The IPMA advises that from the 8th of February, wave heights off the west coast will range from 4 to 5 metres, which may rise to 5 to 6 metres the following day, with maximum sizes potentially reaching 10 metres. Wind conditions will be turbulent, particularly on the 8th, with gusts reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour in coastal areas.

Snowfall is expected to start on the 8th February, primarily above altitudes of 1000 to 1200 metres, with the snowline rising to 1200 to 1400 metres by the 10th.

This weather alert is effective from 17:55 on the 7th to 23:55 on the 10th of February. The IPMA plans to provide updates no later than 19:00 on the 8th. In light of the extreme weather forecast, the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) has cautioned the public about potential flooding and accidents.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We offer various types of online Portuguese courses, supported by experienced Portuguese tutors to cater to different learning needs.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Torres Vedras Carnival Celebrates Freedom With Satire

2025-03-03T07:50:13+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Carnaval de Torres Vedras é famoso em Portugal. Este ano, celebra 50 anos da Revolução de 1974. O evento é alegre , com pessoas em fantasias e desfiles satíricos . Participam muitos visitantes. O Carnaval mistura tradição e política. Este é um evento importante para a cultura portuguesa, reconhecido como Patrimônio Cultural Imaterial Nacional em 2023.

Listen to this text (00:29)

Translation

The Torres Vedras Carnival is famous in Portugal. This year, it celebrates 50 years since the 1974 Revolution. The event is cheerful, with people in costumes and satirical parades. It attracts many visitors. The Carnival combines tradition and politics. It is an important event for Portuguese culture, and in 2023 it was recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many years since the Revolution of 1974 is being celebrated at the Torres Vedras Carnival?

50 years

Question 2: What recognition was given to the Torres Vedras Carnival in 2023?

It was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Exercise: Vocabulary

famoso - famous

celebrar - celebrate

alegre - cheerful

desfile (m.) - parade

satírico - satirical

misturar - mix

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▌03/03/2025

The bustling city of Torres Vedras is once again alive with vibrant costumes and cheerful crowds as its famous carnival kicks off, celebrating not only the spirit of the season but also marking the significant 50th anniversary of the Revolution of 25th April 1974. Recognised as the most traditional carnival in Portugal, this year the event takes on a deeper meaning by associating its festivities with themes of freedom and political change.

This event, boasting a budget of 1.1 million euros, draws over half a million participants and visitors eager to engage in the street revelry characteristic of Torres Vedras. Known for its unique blend of tradition and satire, the carnival is rich with themes that mix current social and political issues with historical insights derived from the country's revolutionary past.

Key attractions include the satirical floats, which this year focus on various political themes. One float humorously critiques the perceived diminishing strength of the ideals born from the 'Carnation Revolution', depicting a notable revolutionary figure, Salgueiro Maia, altered into a comedic image that speaks to ongoing social dialogues about individual freedoms and public expression. Another float daringly presents world leaders like Trump and Putin on toilets, poking fun at global political tensions.

Torres Vedras Carnival Celebrates Freedom With Satire (Illustration)

Couples such as the long-time locals who met during this very celebration decades ago still participate fervently, reinforcing the community spirit that the carnival fosters. Creative attendees, like the group "As Ribeirinhas", dress as newspaper stories that provide a satirical commentary on local affairs, revealing the enduring love for humour and parody.

Despite the light-hearted nature, the message is clear: the values of freedom of speech and individual expression, achievements of the revolution, continue to be explored and celebrated throughout the event. As the day winds down, the festivities continue into the night across public squares and local entertainment venues, generating an expected economic impact of at least 12 million euros for the local economy.

In recognition of its cultural significance, the Torres Vedras Carnival was designated as a part of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023, a step towards its potential candidacy for UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list. As the city prepares to submit its dossier by mid-March, the carnival reasserts its role as a vital cultural event that honours Portugal's history while celebrating its rich present-day traditions.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We provide a variety of online Portuguese classes aimed at different proficiency levels to help learners improve their language skills competently.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Thousands of Masked Revelers Enjoy the Torres Vedras Carnival (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Carnival Revelers in Torres Vedras Draw Inspiration from the April 25th Revolution (SIC Notícias)

Emmanuel Macron Concludes Historic Visit to Portugal

2025-03-01T11:10:31+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Emmanuel Macron, Presidente da França, visitou Portugal em uma ocasião especial após 26 anos. Ele foi recebido pelo Presidente Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. A visita incluiu momentos importantes em Lisboa e Porto, como cerimônias e um fórum econômico . Macron destacou a amizade entre França e Portugal e falou sobre questões globais.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, visited Portugal on a special occasion for the first time in 26 years. He was welcomed by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The visit included significant events in Lisbon and Porto, such as ceremonies and an economic forum. Macron emphasised the friendship between France and Portugal and discussed global issues.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who welcomed Emmanuel Macron to Portugal?

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa welcomed Emmanuel Macron to Portugal.

Question 2: What were some of the events included in Macron's visit to Portugal?

Macron's visit to Portugal included important moments such as ceremonies and an economic forum in Lisbon and Porto.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ocasião (f.) - occasion

visitar - visit

receber - receive

incluir - include

cerimônia (f.) - ceremonies

econômico - economic

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▌01/03/2025

The bustling streets of Porto were transformed into a scene of high security and eager anticipation as Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, visited the city during his official state visit to Portugal. This visit marked a historical moment, as it was the first of its kind in 26 years, following Jacques Chirac's last official visit in 1999.

Macron's visit was organized at the invitation of the Portuguese President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. Over his two-day visit, the French President's schedule was packed with significant events in both Lisbon and Porto. Commencing in Lisbon, he received a warm welcome with military honours at Praça do Império. President Rebelo de Sousa honoured him with the Grande Colar da Ordem da Liberdade, and his wife, Brigitte Macron, was awarded the Grã-Cruz da Ordem do Infante D. Henrique.

Macron's itinerary included a visit to the Jerónimos Monastery and a meeting at the official residence of the Portuguese Prime Minister in São Bento. Acknowledged in a solemn ceremony at the Assembly of the Republic, Macron was also involved in a significant handover event at the Centro Cultural de Belém, relating to the UN Ocean Conference, which highlighted the ongoing cooperation between France and Portugal.

Emmanuel Macron Concludes Historic Visit to Portugal (Illustration)

The second day in Porto saw Macron being welcomed amidst tight security arrangements. The local mayor honoured him with the Chaves da Cidade, recognizing notable figures who enhance the city's character and stature. Macron, accompanied by Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, engaged in a private lunch and later attended the closing ceremony of the Luso-French Economic Forum at the Palácio da Bolsa.

Throughout his visit, Macron expressed heartfelt gratitude for the "extraordinary hospitality" received in Portugal, specifically mentioning the contributions of President Rebelo de Sousa and other prominent Portuguese figures. He emphasized the importance of the warm relations between the two nations.

In his concluding remarks in Porto, Macron reiterated France's stance on global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, asserting Russia's role as the aggressor in this situation.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese," a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We provide Portuguese lessons through various online courses tailored for different proficiency levels.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Keys to the City, Friendship Treaty, and Balcony Greetings for the Allies: Macron Visits the Capital of the "Francesinhas" (Expresso.pt)
Macron Schedules Visit to Thank Portugal for "Extraordinary Hospitality" (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Marlene Vieira Awarded Michelin Star in Lisbon

2025-02-26T19:03:40+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Marlene Vieira é uma chef portuguesa que ganhou uma Estrela Michelin, a primeira mulher em 30 anos a conseguir isso em Portugal. Seu restaurante, chamado Marlene, fica em Lisboa e abriu em 2022. O evento celebrou outros restaurantes e destacou Portugal como destino gastronômico. Portugal agora tem 38 restaurantes com uma estrela Michelin.

Listen to this text (00:27)

Translation

Marlene Vieira is a Portuguese chef who has been awarded a Michelin Star, the first woman in 30 years to achieve this in Portugal. Her restaurant, named Marlene, is located in Lisbon and opened in 2022. The event celebrated other restaurants and showcased Portugal as a culinary destination. Portugal now boasts 38 restaurants with a Michelin Star.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is Marlene Vieira?

Marlene Vieira is a Portuguese chef who won a Michelin Star.

Question 2: How many restaurants with a Michelin star does Portugal have now?

Portugal now has 38 restaurants with a Michelin star.

Exercise: Vocabulary

chef - chef

ganhar - to win

estrela (f.) - star

evento (m.) - event

celebrar - to celebrate

destino (m.) - destination

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▌26/02/2025

Marlene Vieira, a respected Portuguese chef, has become the first woman in thirty years to be awarded a Michelin Star in Portugal. The announcement was made during the second Michelin Guide Gala in Porto, Portugal, marking a significant milestone in her culinary career. Her restaurant, aptly named Marlene, is located at the Lisbon Cruise Terminal and opened its doors in 2022.

In an emotionally charged moment, Vieira expressed her joy and the importance of fulfilling dreams. She emphasized, "The dream drives life, and this is a dream come true." Her sentiment resonated deeply, considering the historical context; the last Portuguese woman to receive a Michelin Star was Maria Alice Marto in 1993.

This year's gala also celebrated eight new restaurants receiving one Michelin Star each. These distinctions were highlighted during an event that seeks to elevate Portugal's standing as a burgeoning gastronomic destination. Despite the success, no Portuguese establishment attained the coveted three-star status, which signifies culinary excellence that "justifies a journey."

Marlene Vieira Awarded Michelin Star in Lisbon (Illustration)

In addition to Vieira's triumph, several other notable restaurants were recognized. Among them, Arkhe in Lisbon and Blind in Porto, received their first stars, underscoring the dynamic culinary landscape in the country. Overall, Portugal now boasts 38 restaurants with one Michelin Star, indicating a steady climb in the world of haute cuisine.

Other highlights of the night included the awarding of a Green Star to Encanto by José Avillez in Lisbon, for its commitment to sustainability in gastronomy. The gala also added five new Bib Gourmand entries, representing excellent value for money, thus broadening the scope and accessibility of high-quality dining in Portugal.

The Michelin Guide Gala in Portugal, organized with the support of Turismo de Portugal, showcased not only the culinary talents but also the potential of Lisbon and beyond as leading culinary destinations. As stated by Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the Michelin Guide, "Portugal is increasingly becoming a reference point for gastronomy lovers worldwide."

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Justice Minister Denies Land Law Conflict of Interest

2025-02-24T13:05:29+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A Ministra da Justiça de Portugal, Rita Júdice, rejeitou acusações de conflito de interesses ligadas a ações em empresas familiares de turismo e imóveis. Ela diz que declarou seus interesses financeiros e que suas empresas não serão beneficiadas por mudanças nas leis de terras. Outros políticos também têm ligações com o setor imobiliário.

Listen to this text (00:28)

Translation

The Portuguese Minister of Justice, Rita Júdice, has dismissed allegations of a conflict of interest related to her involvement in family-run tourism and property companies. She states that she has declared her financial interests and asserts that her businesses will not gain any advantage from changes in land laws. Other politicians are also connected to the real estate sector.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What did Rita Júdice declare regarding her financial interests?

Rita Júdice declared her financial interests.

Question 2: According to the summary, who else has connections to the real estate sector?

Other politicians also have connections to the real estate sector.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ministro (f.) - minister

rejeitar - reject

conflito (m.) - conflict

ação (f.) - shares

setor (m.) - sector

ligar - linked

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▌24/02/2025

Portugal's Minister of Justice, Rita Alarcão Júdice, has dismissed allegations of a conflict of interest related to her shares in family businesses involved in real estate and tourism. Addressing the public speculation, her office confirmed that all financial interests were properly declared to the Entity for Transparency, which monitors such matters alongside the Constitutional Court.

The controversy emerged following a report by the national broadcaster RTP, highlighting Júdice’s ownership stakes in four companies. These businesses are engaged in activities such as real estate and tourism, raising questions amidst ongoing parliamentary discussions about modifying the existing land-use laws. The amendments in question could potentially reclassify rural land as urban, affecting property development opportunities.

Júdice clarified that her companies do not possess properties that could benefit from the land law amendments. She insisted there was no intention to divest her personal assets, which have been accumulated through the efforts of herself and her family. Her statement aimed to address any doubts about her involvement affecting legislative outcomes.

Justice Minister Denies Land Law Conflict of Interest (Illustration)

This issue extends beyond Júdice, with other government officials also linked to the real estate sector. For instance, Minister of Labour, Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho, holds a majority stake in a consulting firm with real estate interests, and Minister for Territorial Cohesion, Manuel Castro Almeida, recently sold his shares in a property business. Even Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has past connections to the real estate industry, although he transferred his company shares to his spouse in 2022.

These revelations have become a focal point as the Portuguese parliament evaluates changes to the Regime Jurídico dos Instrumentos de Gestão Territorial (RJIGT). The debate has been further inflamed by a motion of no confidence against the government, rejected in parliament with support only from Chega and an independent deputy. The PSD, meantime, pointed out that even some Chega deputies have real estate interests, underscoring the widespread nature of such connections within political circles.

The land law amendments were enacted on 29 January following refusals to annul it, despite objections from several parties. The Socialists' abstention played a key role in this outcome, aligning with changes agreed upon with the government and the PSD, steering the policy towards a favourable conclusion.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a dedicated language school specialising in teaching Portuguese. Our offerings include a variety of online courses to cater to different learning needs, supported by experienced Portuguese tutors to guide students in their language acquisition journey.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Real Estate Controversies: Justice Minister Dismisses Conflict of Interest Concerns (SIC Notícias)
Land Use Law? Justice Minister Denies "Conflict of Interest" (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Portugal's Falésia Beach Ranked Among World's Best

2025-02-22T09:52:03+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Praia da Falésia em Portugal é uma das melhores praias do mundo, segundo o site Tripadvisor. Localizada no Algarve, perto de Albufeira, é famosa por suas falésias , areia dourada e água azul cristalina. Os visitantes podem nadar, fazer bodyboarding ou caminhar pelos trilhos para ver paisagens lindas. É um destino popular.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

Praia da Falésia in Portugal is ranked as one of the world’s best beaches, according to the website Tripadvisor. Situated in the Algarve, near Albufeira, it is renowned for its cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can swim, go bodyboarding, or walk along trails to enjoy stunning views. It is a popular destination.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where is Praia da Falésia located?

Praia da Falésia is located in the Algarve, near Albufeira, Portugal.

Question 2: What activities can visitors do at Praia da Falésia?

Visitors can swim, do bodyboarding, or walk the trails to see beautiful landscapes.

Exercise: Vocabulary

melhor - better

areia (f.) - sand

trilho (m.) - trail

localizar - locate

falésia (f.) - cliff

paisagem (f.) - landscape

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▌21/02/2025

Portugal has once again gained admiration on the global stage, as one of its beautiful beaches has been recognised as a top travel destination. Tripadvisor, a renowned travel platform, announced its list of the 'Best of the Best' beaches worldwide, featuring 25 stunning locations. Representing Portugal, the renowned Praia da Falésia proudly claims the fifth spot on this prestigious list.

Located in the coastal region of Albufeira in the Algarve, Praia da Falésia has enchanted visitors with its breathtaking landscape, characterised by its "dramatic cliffs, golden sand, and crystalline blue water," as highlighted by Tripadvisor. The list appreciates beaches that have received a significant number of glowing reviews over a 12-month period, reflecting high levels of satisfaction among travellers.

Portugal's Falésia Beach Ranked Among World's Best (Illustration)

Praia da Falésia, set in the charming area of Olhos de Água, offers an enticing mix of activities for visitors. Apart from basking in the sun on its expansive sandy shore, tourists can indulge in swimming or engage in bodyboarding in the inviting waves. Moreover, those with a penchant for scenic views can explore the panoramic walking trail along the clifftops, providing stunning vistas of the Algarvian coastline.

This recognition further cements Portugal's standing as a beloved destination for global travellers, with Praia da Falésia serving as a notable highlight. As one of Europe's prime holiday spots, the Algarve continues to allure visitors with its natural beauty and inviting climate, making it a perennial favourite among holidaymakers worldwide.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We offer a range of online courses tailored to different skill levels, including Portuguese for beginners, designed to provide a solid foundation in the language.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Discover Which Portuguese Beach Made the List of the World's "Best of the Best" (SIC Notícias)
Discover the Portuguese Beach Ranked Among the World's "Best of the Best" (SAPO.pt)

Unique Climate Found on Exoplanet Tylos

2025-02-19T13:22:38+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Cientistas, incluindo três de Portugal, mapearam a atmosfera de um exoplaneta chamado Tylos. Tylos está a 900 anos-luz da Terra. Este planeta tem temperaturas muito altas, superiores a 2000°C, e completa uma volta em 30 horas. A pesquisa usou um telescópio no Chile e descobriu três camadas atmosféricas diferentes.

Listen to this text (00:28)

Translation

Scientists, including three from Portugal, have mapped the atmosphere of an exoplanet named Tylos. Tylos is located 900 light-years from Earth. This planet has very high temperatures, exceeding 2000°C, and completes one orbit in 30 hours. The research used a telescope in Chile and identified three distinct atmospheric layers.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many layers does Tylos's atmosphere have?

Tylos's atmosphere has three layers.

Question 2: How long does it take for Tylos to complete one orbit?

Tylos completes one orbit in 30 hours.

Exercise: Vocabulary

mapear - map

exoplaneta (m.) - exoplanet

superior - higher

completar - complete

pesquisa (f.) - research

camada (f.) - layer

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▌19/02/2025

An international team of astrophysicists, including three from Portugal, has successfully mapped the three-dimensional structure of an exoplanet’s atmosphere for the first time. This pioneering research revealed a distinct and complex climate on the planet known as WASP-121b, or Tylos.

The study, published in the scientific journal Nature, included contributions from Portuguese researchers Nuno Santos, Sérgio Sousa, and Yuri Damasceno, all from the Institute of Astrophysics and Space Sciences (IA). Tylos is located about 900 light-years from Earth in the constellation of Puppis.

According to Yuri Damasceno, Tylos is part of a category of planets exhibiting some of the highest known temperatures. This gas giant, akin in mass to Jupiter, experiences surface temperatures exceeding 2000ºC. Tylos orbits so closely to its star that it completes a full orbit in just 30 hours. Its unique positioning causes one side of the planet to remain perpetually heated while the opposite side stays dark and significantly cooler.

Unique Climate Found on Exoplanet Tylos (Illustration)

The team employed the Very Large Telescope (VLT), operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile, to detect and map the planet's atmospheric layers. The researchers identified three distinct layers in Tylos' atmosphere: a lower layer with iron winds, a middle layer featuring a rapid jet stream transporting sodium, and an upper layer containing hydrogen winds.

Julia Seidel, the study's lead author, explained that the discovery was unexpected, with a jet stream swirling material around the planet's equator and another flow circulating gas from the hot to the cold side of the atmosphere. This atmospheric behaviour is unprecedented in any previously studied planet.

Complementary research published in Astronomy and Astrophysics journal also uncovered titanium beneath the jet streams, a finding that surprised scientists as previous observations had overlooked this element, likely due to its concealment in the planet’s deeper atmospheric layers.

These revelations on Tylos advance potential pathways for more in-depth studies regarding the chemical composition and climatic conditions of other extraterrestrial worlds, as noted by the researchers involved.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a dedicated language school committed to teaching Portuguese through a variety of online courses. Our experienced Portuguese tutors provide personalised instruction to help learners improve their language skills effectively.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Tylos: Astrophysicists Discover Exoplanet with Unique Climate (Expresso.pt)
Tylos: Astrophysicists Discover Exoplanet with Unique Climate (SAPO.pt)

Death of Porto's Iconic Leader Pinto da Costa

2025-02-17T09:42:29+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa, presidente de FC Porto, morreu. Ele tinha 87 anos e lutava contra o câncer . Pinto da Costa fez o FC Porto famoso no mundo. Ele lançou um livro sobre sua vida em outubro. A cidade de Porto está triste e fará um dia de luto em sua homenagem .

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa, the president of FC Porto, has passed away. He was 87 years old and had been battling cancer. Pinto da Costa made FC Porto famous worldwide. He published a book about his life in October. The city of Porto is in mourning and will observe a day of remembrance in his honour.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How old was Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa when he passed away?

He was 87 years old.

Question 2: What event will be held in the city of Porto to honor Pinto da Costa?

The city of Porto will hold a day of mourning in his honor.

Exercise: Vocabulary

presidente (m.) - president

lutar - fight

câncer (m.) - cancer

lançar - launch

luto (m.) - mourning

homenagem (f.) - tribute

Read the full story

▌17/02/2025

The football community and residents of Porto mourn the passing of Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa, the longtime president of FC Porto, who died on Saturday at the age of 87 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. Pinto da Costa's leadership transformed FC Porto into an international football powerhouse, a legacy hailed by presidential candidate Luís Marques Mendes.

Marques Mendes, while acknowledging the controversies surrounding Pinto da Costa’s tenure, emphasized the former president's undeniable impact on both the club and the region. Under his leadership, FC Porto ascended from regional recognition to global acclaim. Mendes further highlighted Pinto da Costa's extensive record, noting his status as "the most titled president in the world." The revered leader was known for his humor and prominence in Porto's community.

Death of Porto's Iconic Leader Pinto da Costa (Illustration)

Pinto da Costa's health deteriorated in recent years, notably following his defeat in the club’s presidential election to André Villas-Boas. His last public appearance was during a football match at Estádio do Dragão in December. Earlier in October, he launched his farewell book, "Azul Até Ao Fim," reflecting on his life and his cancer diagnosis in 2021. Notably, he curated his funeral guest list, excluding certain members of FC Porto’s current leadership and some former players whom he dubbed "traitors."

The funeral arrangements include a procession starting from Igreja das Antas, with the cortege making a symbolic stop at Estádio do Dragão before heading to Cemitério do Prado do Repouso for cremation on Monday. Due to the expected turnout, the local authorities have implemented traffic restrictions around the Antas area, with specific road closures to manage the influx of mourners.

The Porto City Council has declared a municipal day of mourning in honor of Pinto da Costa, recognizing his profound influence on the city’s sporting and cultural landscape. The former president leaves behind a storied legacy and a city in mourning, as well as a football world reflecting on his dynamic and often controversial career.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Portuguese Cyclists Shine at European Championships

2025-02-15T11:27:46+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Iúri Leitão e Ivo Oliveira são ciclistas portugueses. No Campeonato Europeu de Ciclismo, em Heusden-Zolder, Bélgica, Leitão venceu duas corridas e Ivo ganhou uma medalha de prata. O presidente de Portugal parabenizou os atletas . Portugal terminou o campeonato com cinco medalhas ao todo, mostrando um bom desempenho no ciclismo.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

Iúri Leitão and Ivo Oliveira are Portuguese cyclists. At the European Cycling Championships in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium, Leitão won two races and Ivo earned a silver medal. The President of Portugal congratulated the athletes. Portugal finished the championship with a total of five medals, demonstrating strong performance in cycling.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who are the Portuguese cyclists mentioned in the summary?

Iúri Leitão and Ivo Oliveira.

Question 2: How many medals did Portugal win in total at the European Championships?

Portugal won five medals in total.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ciclista (m.) - cyclist

campeonato (m.) - championship

vencer - to win

parabenizar - to congratulate

atleta (m.) - athlete

desempenho (m.) - performance

Read the full story

▌15/02/2025

Portuguese cyclists Iúri Leitão and Ivo Oliveira achieved significant success at the European Track Cycling Championships held in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium. The nation's cyclists have continued to gather accolades, further establishing Portugal's status in the competitive cycling domain.

In a highly competitive scratch race, Iúri Leitão, aged 26, managed to retain his European title. His performance saw him outpace formidable opponents such as the Netherlands’ Vincent Hoppezak and the UK’s William Tidball, who finished in second and third places respectively. This victory occurred merely 24 hours after Leitão's triumph in the points race, demonstrating his remarkable prowess on the track.

Portuguese Cyclists Shine at European Championships (Illustration)

Not long after Leitão's victory, Ivo Oliveira excelled in the individual pursuit, earning a silver medal. The 28-year-old cyclist from Vila Nova de Gaia was narrowly defeated by the UK's Josh Charlton, while Charlton's compatriot, Michael Gill, completed the podium in third. Oliveira's performance added to his impressive track record in European elite championships, which already includes a gold medal in 2020.

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa extended his congratulations to both athletes, highlighting their achievements on the event’s official website. He acknowledged the national pride stirred by their accomplishments, underscoring the significance of their contributions to Portugal's standing in European cycling.

The successes of Leitão and Oliveira brought Portugal's total to five podium finishes in this 16th edition of the championships, which have been ongoing from Wednesday to Sunday. The Portuguese team had already celebrated a silver by Rui Oliveira, Ivo’s twin brother, in the elimination race and a bronze by Maria Martins in the scratch.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

New Bridge to Connect Lisbon and Barreiro

2025-02-10T09:30:40+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Um projeto de infraestrutura está em andamento para ligar Chelas, em Lisboa, a Barreiro, no distrito de Setúbal, com uma nova ponte. Este projeto visa melhorar as redes de transporte rodoviário e ferroviário na região, custando cerca de €2,2 bilhões. A ponte ajudará na modernização da infraestrutura de Portugal.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

An infrastructure project is underway to connect Chelas in Lisbon to Barreiro in the Setúbal district with a new bridge. This project aims to enhance road and rail transport networks in the area, costing approximately €2.2 billion. The bridge will assist in modernising Portugal's infrastructure.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is the main purpose of building the new bridge between Lisbon and Barreiro?

The main purpose is to improve road and rail transport networks in the region.

Question 2: How much will the new bridge project in Portugal cost?

The project will cost about €2.2 billion.

Exercise: Vocabulary

infraestrutura (f.) - infrastructure

andamento (m.) - progress

ligar - connect

distrito (m.) - district

modernização (f.) - modernisation

custar - cost

Read the full story

▌09/02/2025

A significant infrastructure project is underway to link Chelas in Lisbon with Barreiro in the Setúbal district through a new bridge. The initiative is part of a broader transportation strategy to improve connectivity within the region.

This ambitious project is expected to enhance both road and rail networks, facilitating smoother transit between these key areas. It is estimated to cost approximately €2.2 billion, reflecting its extensive scope designed to handle multi-modal traffic.

New Bridge to Connect Lisbon and Barreiro (Illustration)

The proposed bridge will cater to an increasing demand for efficient transportation between Lisbon and Barreiro. It serves as a critical component in modernising Portugal's infrastructure, addressing not only current but also future commuting needs and regional economic development.

While the plan has been largely welcomed for its potential economic benefits, there are varying perspectives on its financial feasibility and environmental impact. Proponents tout the project as a means to stimulate local economies and improve daily commutes, while critics question its environmental sustainability and funding allocation.

As discussions around this project continue, balancing economic ambitions with environmental considerations remains a focal point for stakeholders. The conversation about the new bridge highlights Portugal's ongoing efforts to upgrade its transportation infrastructure in a manner that is both progressive and responsible.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

New Lisbon Bridge to Accommodate Cars and Trains (Expresso.pt)
Cars and Trains: What Will the New Bridge Connecting Chelas to Barreiro Look Like? (SAPO.pt)

Police Interception at Lagos School After Theft

2025-02-08T09:31:03+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Um incidente em Lagos, Portugal, envolveu suspeitos de roubo e a polícia (PSP). Os suspeitos fugiram para uma escola, mas a polícia os perseguiu. Um deles ficou ferido . A segurança dos alunos foi mantida. A investigação continua para entender o que aconteceu . O prefeito elogiou a polícia pela atuação.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

An incident in Lagos, Portugal, involved robbery suspects and the police (PSP). The suspects fled into a school, but the police pursued them. One of the suspects got injured. The safety of the students was maintained. The investigation is ongoing to understand what happened. The mayor praised the police for their actions.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did the suspects flee to during the incident?

The suspects fled to a school.

Question 2: Was any suspect injured during the incident?

Yes, one of the suspects was injured.

Exercise: Vocabulary

incidente (m.) - incident

suspeito (m.) - suspect

ferido - injured

investigação (f.) - investigation

acontecer - happen

prefeito (m.) - mayor

Read the full story

▌08/02/2025

An incident in Lagos, Portugal, involving suspected burglars and the Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) led to a dramatic chase ending at a primary school. The event unfolded on a Friday afternoon when a group of four individuals, suspected of residential theft, attempted to evade police capture, culminating in their heading towards the Escola Básica do Bairro Operário.

The chase began when the suspects, initially fleeing in a vehicle, were pursued by the PSP. After abandoning their car, they attempted to escape on foot, endeavouring to find refuge within the school premises by scaling its walls and fence. During this pursuit, the PSP fired warning shots into the air, as stated in an official police report. One suspect was injured by a firearm, sustaining a wound to the foot.

Police Interception at Lagos School After Theft (Illustration)

The injured suspect received immediate medical attention on site before being transported to a hospital for further treatment. Authorities confirm that there were no injuries among the school's students or staff, ensuring the community's safety was maintained throughout the incident.

The PSP has reported the episode to the Ministério Público, with an ensuing investigation to be conducted by the Polícia Judiciária. This thorough investigation will aim to establish the detailed circumstances around the incident.

Hugo Pereira, the mayor of Lagos, clarified that the primary intentions of the suspects were not directed towards the school itself but rather an impromptu effort to evade capture outside the school grounds. He noted that law enforcement officials predominantly managed the confrontation away from the educational establishment. Furthermore, Pereira commended the police for their handling of the situation, highlighting that most students remained unaware of the occurrence until after it had concluded.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Suspected Thieves Hide in Lagos School: Police Shootings Leave One Injured (Expresso.pt)
Four Suspects Arrested for School Burglaries in Lagos (SIC Notícias)
Police Arrest Four Suspects for Thefts at Lagos Elementary School (SAPO.pt)

Portugal's Tutti Frutti Case Highlights Judicial Delays

2025-02-05T20:16:33+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O caso "Tutti Frutti" em Portugal envolve 60 pessoas acusadas de corrupção . O presidente Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa quer justiça mais rápida. Alguns políticos, como Luís Newton, estão envolvidos, mas não o ex-prefeito de Lisboa, Fernando Medina. O caso mostra a necessidade de melhorar o sistema de justiça em Portugal.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

The "Tutti Frutti" case in Portugal involves 60 individuals accused of corruption. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is calling for swifter justice. Several politicians, such as Luís Newton, are implicated, although the former Mayor of Lisbon, Fernando Medina, is not. The case highlights the need to improve Portugal's judicial system.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is the Portuguese president mentioned in the summary?

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is the Portuguese president mentioned.

Question 2: Is Fernando Medina involved in the 'Tutti Frutti' case?

No, Fernando Medina is not involved in the case.

Exercise: Vocabulary

caso (m.) - case

envolver - involve

acusado - accused

corrupção (f.) - corruption

sistema (m.) - system

necessidade (f.) - necessity

Read the full story

▌05/02/2025

The ongoing Tutti Frutti investigation has brought to the forefront discussions about the efficiency of Portugal's justice system. This high-profile case involves accusations against 60 individuals, including politicians from the major parties, the PSD and PS, for alleged crimes such as corruption, influence peddling, and money laundering. As the judicial process progresses, significant attention is being drawn to concerns over the speed and functionality of the legal system in Portugal.

Speaking from Prague, where he was on an official visit, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasized the importance of speeding up judicial processes. He noted the challenges faced by public officials who continue to hold their positions while under investigation. "A swift justice is a more just justice," the President asserted, encouraging reforms within the judicial system. He pointed out that political figures often find it difficult to perform their duties amidst ongoing legal uncertainties.

Among the key figures involved in the Tutti Frutti case are Luís Newton, a PSD deputy, and Ângelo Pereira, also affiliated with the PSD as a city councilor in Lisbon, both of whom have suspended their mandates. The accusations revolve around a suspicion of a centralized network of interests involving political appointments and public contracts in Lisbon.

Portugal's Tutti Frutti Case Highlights Judicial Delays (Illustration)

In a notable development, former Lisbon mayor Fernando Medina was not among those formally charged. The Public Prosecutor's Office (MP) concluded that they could not demonstrate that Medina had acted with the intention to benefit other accused individuals. Medina expressed relief at this decision, lamenting the eight years of speculation and public scrutiny he endured during the investigation.

Despite some individuals being cleared, the case remains extensive with the MP seeking the forfeiture of public office for 13 of the accused and the recovery of over 580,000 euros allegedly misappropriated through crimes committed by some defendants. This ongoing legal saga underscores the recurring debate about judicial efficiency and the ramifications of delayed processes, both on the individuals involved and on public trust in the system.

The Tutti Frutti case, initiated in 2018, continues to be a pivotal moment for the Portuguese legal and political landscape, prompting calls for necessary reforms to ensure swifter judicial proceedings. The broader implications stress the need for a justice system that keeps pace with societal and political changes, ensuring timely resolutions for all parties concerned.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Tutti Frutti: "Justice Needs to Be Swifter," Demands President of the Republic (Expresso.pt)
Tutti Frutti: "Justice Must be Swifter," Demands President of the Republic (SAPO.pt)
Tutti Frutti 'Ripens': Medina 'Satisfied' and Ongoing Suspensions (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Operation Tutti Frutti: Prosecutors Charge 60 Defendants in Case (Visão)
Operation Tutti-Frutti: Marcelo Advocates for a Faster Justice System in Portugal (SIC Notícias)

Marques Mendes Announces Presidential Bid with Key Values

2025-02-03T10:06:17+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Luís Marques Mendes anunciou sua candidatura à presidência de Portugal. Ele foi líder do PSD e quer trazer ambição , estabilidade e ética . Mendes acredita que ideias são mais importantes que o tempo do anúncio . Ele busca inspirar e melhorar a política, enfrentando desafios e atraindo eleitores para sua visão.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

Luís Marques Mendes has announced his candidacy for the presidency of Portugal. He was the leader of the PSD and aims to bring ambition, stability, and ethics. Mendes believes that ideas are more important than the timing of the announcement. He seeks to inspire and improve politics, tackling challenges and attracting voters to his vision.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What does Luís Marques Mendes want to bring to his presidential bid?

He wants to bring ambition, stability, and ethics to his presidential bid.

Question 2: What is more important to Mendes than the timing of his announcement?

He believes that ideas are more important than the timing of his announcement.

Exercise: Vocabulary

candidatura (f.) - candidacy

presidência (f.) - presidency

ambição (f.) - ambition

estabilidade (f.) - stability

ética (f.) - ethics

anúncio (m.) - announcement

Read the full story

▌03/02/2025

Luís Marques Mendes announced his decision to run for the Presidency of Portugal with "total confidence," following his last commentary on SIC's Jornal da Noite this Sunday. The former leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) is entering the race for Belém, bringing with him a vision grounded in ambition, stability, and ethics.

Mendes emphasised that his candidacy stems from a period of reflection and consultation, ensuring he could contribute positively to Portugal. In his view, the ideas driving a campaign hold greater significance than the timing of an announcement.

Marques Mendes Announces Presidential Bid with Key Values (Illustration)

His presidential platform centres around three main pillars: ambition, to inspire progress in a perceived complacent country; stability, to ensure steadiness in governance; and ethics, which he considers pivotal to restoring public trust in politics. Mendes believes that invoking a stronger ethical stance could steer citizens away from populism, which he views as detrimental to democracy.

The political landscape presents challenges for Mendes, as polls indicated a competitive field where he recently placed fourth. Despite this, Mendes highlighted the importance of "experience," which he argues provides "security and predictability." His candidacy aims to invigorate a nation he describes as "resigned and even depressed."

As he transitions from his role as a commentator, Mendes will face the challenge of converting his television audience into voters. The upcoming election campaign promises to test his appeal to both traditional supporters and the broader public.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Euromillions Jackpot Awaits UK Winner: Nearly €100 Million

2025-02-01T09:22:14+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Na sexta-feira, um prêmio de quase €100 milhões da Euromillions foi ganho no Reino Unido, mas o vencedor ainda não apareceu . Aconselhador Andy Carter sugere verificar os bilhetes. No Reino Unido, no mês passado, outro vencedor ganhou €140 milhões. Em Portugal, três pessoas ganharam €1.722,45. Consulte os resultados nos sites oficiais.

Listen to this text (00:28)

Translation

On Friday, a Euromillions jackpot of nearly €100 million was won in the United Kingdom, but the winner has not yet come forward. Advisor Andy Carter suggests checking the tickets. Last month in the UK, another winner won €140 million. In Portugal, three individuals won €1,722.45. Check the official websites for the results.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who suggests checking the Euromillions tickets?

Andy Carter suggests checking the Euromillions tickets.

Question 2: How much did three people win in Portugal?

Three people won €1.722,45 each in Portugal.

Exercise: Vocabulary

prémio (m.) - prize

ganhar - to win

vencedor (m.) - winner

aparecer - to appear

aconselhador (m.) - advisor

verificar - to verify

Read the full story

▌01/02/2025

On Friday, a Euromillions jackpot of nearly €100 million was won by an unnamed individual in the United Kingdom. However, the winning ticket holder has yet to come forward and claim their impressive prize. Andy Carter, a winner's advisor from Allwyn—the UK operator of the national lottery—has urged participants to check their tickets promptly.

"This lucky winner marks the first Euromillions jackpot win in the UK for 2025. It's an incredible way to start the year," noted Carter. Interestingly, the UK has been on a streak with significant wins. Just last month, another UK ticket holder won approximately €140 million, which has catapulted them into wealth even surpassing that of pop sensation Dua Lipa, whose net worth is stated to be around €125 million.

Euromillions Jackpot Awaits UK Winner: Nearly €100 Million (Illustration)

The recent Friday draw did not see a winner for the second-tier prize of €28 million, which means the jackpot has now increased to €38 million. While no one claimed the top prize, one player abroad bagged the second prize of €662,510.15, and three others secured €51,613.17 each in third-tier prizes.

In Portugal, out of 28 fortunate players, three managed to collect the fourth-tier prize, earning €1,722.45 each. The winning combination for the draw consisted of the numbers 22, 30, 41, 44, and 49, along with the stars 2 and 7.

Participants are recommended to check official sources like the Jogos Santa Casa website for the accurate and updated results of the lottery draws.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

EuroMillions: A Jackpot of Nearly 100 Million Won, But Winner Remains Unknown and Unclaimed (Expresso.pt)
No Euromillions Jackpot Winner, But There's a Big Second Prize Abroad. What About Here? (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Madeira Election to Proceed Under Old Law

2025-01-29T17:15:39+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A Comissão Nacional de Eleições (CNE) de Portugal decidiu que as eleições na Madeira em 23 de março seguirão a lei eleitoral antiga, não as novas emendas . Estas mudanças, que visavam igualdade de gênero e melhor acessibilidade ao voto, não estavam em vigor a tempo. O governo seguirá regras de 2006 até novas eleições.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

The National Election Commission (CNE) of Portugal has determined that the elections in Madeira on 23 March will adhere to the old electoral law, not the new amendments. These changes, which aimed to promote gender equality and improve voting accessibility, were not in effect in time. The government will follow the 2006 regulations until the next elections.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What date will the elections in Madeira take place?

The elections in Madeira will take place on March 23.

Question 2: What was the purpose of the new amendments that are not in use for the Madeira elections?

The new amendments aimed for gender equality and better accessibility to vote.

Exercise: Vocabulary

comissão (f.) - commission

decidir - decide

emenda (f.) - amendment

acessibilidade (f.) - accessibility

vigor (m.) - force

regra (f.) - rule

Read the full story

▌29/01/2025

The National Electoral Commission (CNE) of Portugal has clarified that the upcoming regional elections in Madeira, scheduled for March 23, will proceed under the existing electoral law rather than recent amendments. This decision follows the dissolution of the Regional Legislative Assembly by the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, after a no-confidence motion led to the government's downfall.

The clarification comes despite recent unanimous approval of electoral law amendments by the Portuguese Parliament, aimed at introducing measures such as gender parity and enhanced voting accessibility. These amendments were signed into law on January 26 by the President but have come into effect only recently. According to the CNE, the existing law remains applicable as the legislative amendments were not in force at the time of the electoral call.

The situation arose following political upheaval in Madeira, where the incumbent minority government was ousted. This unusual political move, backed by the Chega party, cited ongoing judicial investigations involving key government officials. Consequently, the government will remain in a caretaker capacity until the new assembly assumes office.

Madeira Election to Proceed Under Old Law (Illustration)

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, during discussions with regional party leaders, hoped for the new legislation to apply. However, a technical lapse during the weekend impacted the timely implementation of these amendments. The President emphasised efforts to address technical considerations, aligning legislative transitions with procedural requirements.

The forthcoming regional elections will thus adhere to the 2006 organic law, as amended in 2009. The CNE's plenary has confirmed this stance to uphold constitutional provisions governing electoral processes following such dissolutions.

The development holds significant political implications in Madeira, reflecting ongoing tensions and anticipation of electoral outcomes determined by long-standing legal frameworks rather than newly envisioned reforms. The countdown to March 23 is now marked by preparations under the established electoral proceedings.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Prominent Journalist Nuno Roby Amorim Dies at 62

2025-01-27T07:40:39+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Nuno Roby Amorim foi um jornalista influente em Portugal. Ele faleceu aos 62 anos em Lisboa após uma longa doença. Amorim ajudou a fundar a rádio TSF e trabalhou para várias redes de televisão. Mais tarde, tornou-se consultor de comunicação. A sua morte foi sentida por muitos no mundo do jornalismo e da política.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

Nuno Roby Amorim was an influential journalist in Portugal. He passed away at the age of 62 in Lisbon after a long illness. Amorim helped to establish the radio station TSF and worked for various television networks. Later, he became a communications consultant. His death was felt by many in the worlds of journalism and politics.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did Nuno Roby Amorim pass away?

He passed away in Lisbon.

Question 2: What did Nuno Roby Amorim do later in his career?

He became a communication consultant.

Exercise: Vocabulary

influente - influential

falecer - to die

fundar - to found

consultor (m.) - consultant

morte (f.) - death

sentir - to feel

Read the full story

▌27/01/2025

The journalism community in Portugal is mourning the loss of Nuno Roby Amorim, who passed away at the age of 62. Amorim, known for his significant contributions to Portuguese media, died on Sunday at the Hospital dos Capuchos in Lisbon after battling a long-term illness.

Amorim's career was deeply intertwined with the history of Portuguese journalism. He was one of the founding members of TSF Radio, participating in its formative training sessions under influential journalists of the time. His career was marked by a pivotal moment in 1988 when he reported live on a major fire in Chiado, an event that left a lasting imprint on both his legacy and the station's reputation.

Colleagues and contemporaries remember Amorim for his spirited approach to reporting. Sena Santos, one of his early mentors, described him as a "fierce young reporter." Amorim's contributions extended beyond TSF, as he went on to work with major Portuguese television networks, including RTP, TVI, and SIC, and took his talents to Brussels.

Prominent Journalist Nuno Roby Amorim Dies at 62 (Illustration)

In the latter part of his professional life, Amorim transitioned from journalism to communication consultancy. He served various prominent roles, including as a consultant for the Embassy of Morocco in Lisbon and worked closely with political parties such as the Liberal Initiative. This transition allowed him to leave a distinct mark through his "restless, determined, and passionate attitude," as noted by the Liberal Initiative, whom he supported until his death.

The President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, expressed condolences to Amorim's family, acknowledging his extensive influence and collaboration, which had spanned various sectors beyond journalism. Similarly, tributes from the public and political spheres highlighted his dedication to both media and political communications.

Nuno Roby Amorim, son of the late journalist José Roby Amorim and father of two, leaves behind a legacy that reflects a lifelong commitment to reporting and public discourse. His passionate engagement with both journalism and political advisory roles is remembered fondly by those who worked with him and followed his career.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Former Journalist Nuno Roby Amorim Passes Away (SIC Notícias)
Nuno Roby Amorim, Former Journalist and TSF Founder, Dies at 62 (NoticiasAoMinuto)
TSF Founder Nuno Roby Amorim Passes Away (Expresso.pt)

Health Minister Unaware of Director's Role Conflicts

2025-01-25T08:56:54+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A Ministra da Saúde de Portugal, Ana Paula Martins, disse que não sabia de problemas com António Gandra D'Almeida, ex-diretor do SNS. D'Almeida deixou o cargo após um relatório investigativo acusá-lo de ter vários trabalhos, o que é ilegal. Ele nega as acusações . O governo está investigando mais o caso.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

The Portuguese Minister for Health, Ana Paula Martins, stated that she was unaware of any issues concerning António Gandra D'Almeida, the former director of the NHS. D'Almeida resigned after an investigative report accused him of holding multiple jobs, which is illegal. He denies the allegations. The government is further investigating the matter.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is Ana Paula Martins?

She is the Health Minister of Portugal.

Question 2: What did the report accuse António Gandra D'Almeida of?

The report accused him of having multiple jobs, which is illegal.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ministro (f.) - minister

problema (m.) - problems

cargo (m.) - post

relatório (m.) - report

investigativo - investigative

acusação (f.) - accusations

Read the full story

▌24/01/2025

The Portuguese Health Minister, Ana Paula Martins, asserted in a recent exclusive interview that neither she nor the government was aware of any irregularities concerning António Gandra D'Almeida, the former executive director of the Service Nacional de Saúde (SNS). This statement follows the resignation of D'Almeida, prompted by an investigative report from SIC. The investigation revealed that he was holding multiple roles simultaneously, which may have contravened legal guidelines.

According to SIC's findings, D'Almeida served as the head of the Northern delegation of the National Institute of Medical Emergencies (INEM) while also working as a contract physician in various emergencies units, including those in Guarda, Faro, and Portimão. Although this accumulation of roles generally constitutes a legal conflict, D'Almeida managed to secure authorization from INEM under the pretense of not receiving a salary for the additional work. However, it is alleged that he earned over 200,000 euros for these duties through a company he co-owned with his wife.

Health Minister Unaware of Director's Role Conflicts (Illustration)

Minister Martins emphasized that the government had relied on a report by the Public Administration Recruitment and Selection Commission (CReSAP), which had vetted D'Almeida's credentials without noting any errors or illicit activities. The government's immediate response, upon discovering these revelations through the media, was to alert both its internal structures and the General Inspectorate of Health Activities (IGAS) for further examination.

In response to these accusations, D'Almeida issued a statement contesting the claims made in the investigation. He criticized the report as containing inaccuracies that unfairly damaged his reputation. D'Almeida had been chosen to head the SNS in May 2024 after the departure of his predecessor, Fernando Araújo, who resigned due to a desire not to hinder government policy implementation.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Health Minister Claims Unawareness of Gandra d'Almeida's Dual Roles (SAPO.pt)
Health Minister Claims Unawareness of Gandra d'Almeida's Dual Roles (SIC Notícias)

Fuel Prices in Portugal Witness Significant Increase

2025-01-22T13:10:28+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Esta semana, os preços de combustíveis em Portugal subiram muito. O preço do gasóleo aumentou 5,5 cêntimos por litro, e a gasolina subiu 3 cêntimos . Agora, o gasóleo custa €1,69 por litro e a gasolina custa €1,78. Isso acontece por causa do aumento do preço do petróleo e dos impostos .

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

This week, fuel prices in Portugal have risen significantly. The price of diesel has increased by 5.5 cents per litre, while petrol has gone up by 3 cents. Diesel now costs €1.69 per litre, and petrol costs €1.78. This is due to the rise in oil prices and taxes.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How much did the price of diesel increase this week in Portugal?

The price of diesel increased by 5.5 cents per liter.

Question 2: What are the reasons mentioned for the fuel price increase in Portugal?

The reasons mentioned are the increase in oil prices and taxes.

Exercise: Vocabulary

subir - rise

gasóleo (m.) - diesel

cêntimo (m.) - cent

custar - cost

petróleo (m.) - oil

imposto (m.) - tax

Read the full story

▌21/01/2025

This week, fuel prices in Portugal have surged considerably, marking the most substantial increase recorded in the past three years. As of today, diesel prices have risen by 5.5 cents, now averaging €1.69 per litre for consumers.

In addition, the price of petrol has also been adjusted, with an increase of 3 cents, bringing the cost to €1.78 per litre. It is noteworthy that these prices may vary depending on the region within the country and the specific fuel station.

Fuel Prices in Portugal Witness Significant Increase (Illustration)

The predominant reason cited for this price hike is the rising cost of crude oil. However, the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts a potential decline in oil prices by 2025, as a reduction in demand is anticipated.

Another significant factor contributing to the current price increase is the hike in the ISP (Tax on Oil and Energy Products), which has gone up by 3 cents since the beginning of January 2025.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese," a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We offer various types of online courses tailored to support both beginners and advanced students in their pursuit of mastering the language. To enhance your Portuguese language learning experience, our diverse learning tools are designed to enrich your knowledge and proficiency in Portuguese.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Thousands Gather in Lisbon for Peace Protest

2025-01-20T10:43:42+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Em Lisboa, houve um grande protesto pela paz global. As pessoas marcharam pedindo o fim dos conflitos e o apoio à autodeterminação do povo palestino. Os organizadores querem diálogo , não guerra. Mais protestos aconteceram em outras cidades de Portugal, mostrando apoio à causa de "paz e cooperação ".

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

In Lisbon, there was a large protest for global peace. People marched calling for an end to conflicts and support for the Palestinian people's self-determination. The organisers seek dialogue, not war. More protests took place in other cities of Portugal, showing support for the cause of "peace and cooperation."

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What did the protesters in Lisbon march for?

They marched for global peace and for the end of conflicts.

Question 2: What do the organizers of the protest want instead of war?

They want dialogue instead of war.

Exercise: Vocabulary

grande - large

protesto (m.) - protest

autodeterminação (f.) - self-determination

organizador (m.) - organiser

diálogo (m.) - dialogue

cooperação (f.) - cooperation

Read the full story

▌19/01/2025

In the heart of Lisbon, a significant protest took place, drawing attention to global peace issues and advocating for the resolution of international conflicts. Demonstrators gathered initially at the Cais do Sodré and proceeded towards Largo do Rossio, echoing calls for peace and cooperation. Prominent among their slogans was, "We want peace and cooperation, not to be cannon fodder."

The demonstration, which included the participation of numerous organisations, was primarily organised to call for the cessation of all conflicts, promoting a culture of peace and supporting the right to self-determination for the Palestinian people. The event was endorsed by the Conselho Português para a Paz e Cooperação (CPPC), whose representative, Ilda Figueiredo, emphasised the necessity of addressing global tensions through dialogue rather than militaristic approaches.

Tiago Oliveira, secretary-general of the CGTP, raised concerns about the recent calls by NATO's secretary-general for increased military spending, criticizing such measures for undermining social rights and disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable groups. Similar peace protests were echoed in other Portuguese cities like Coimbra and Funchal, showing a national scale of support for the cause.

Individuals such as Tiago Marques, who attended to express solidarity with Palestine, described the actions against Palestinians as akin to genocide. Marques referenced institutions like the United Nations and Amnesty International to support his stance, criticising the Portuguese government's position on the issue.

Thousands Gather in Lisbon for Peace Protest (Illustration)

Lurdes Aguiar, a repeat participant in such demonstrations, voiced her frustration over the ongoing violence in Gaza, where over 50,000 have reportedly lost their lives. She expressed scepticism about the prospects of a lasting ceasefire, citing various interests working against it. She sees attending these protests as a crucial, albeit small, way to raise her voice.

Protesters displayed banners with messages such as "Reduce arms, increase salaries", "Peace in the Middle East, Independent Palestine", and "Israel is responsible for a massacred people" as they made their way through Lisbon's streets. The protest is described by Figueiredo as one of the largest she has attended, amassing what she claims to be "thousands and thousands" of participants.

As the march concluded at Largo do Rossio, participants heard speeches from various movement representatives, including a statement by Paulo Raimundo from the Portuguese Communist Party. Raimundo advocated for an end to Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a comprehensive peace policy, and urged Portugal to recognise the Palestinian state.

The event concluded with an assurance from organisers to continue their efforts for peace, reiterating the urgent need for worldwide cooperation and understanding to resolve ongoing conflicts.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Hundreds of People Rally in Lisbon for World Peace (SIC Notícias)
National Rally 'United for Peace!' Gathers Thousands in Lisbon (NoticiasAoMinuto)
National Demonstration "United for Peace!" Brings Thousands Together in Lisbon - Organizers (SAPO.pt)

Mário Centeno Rules Out Presidential Bid

2025-01-18T11:04:51+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Mário Centeno, governador do Banco de Portugal, não será candidato à presidência de Portugal. Centeno afirmou que sua decisão é pessoal e sem dimensão política. Agora, o destaque no Partido Socialista pode ir para Elisa Ferreira, uma figura respeitada, que ainda não se pronunciou sobre uma possível candidatura.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Mário Centeno, the governor of the Bank of Portugal, will not be running for the presidency of Portugal. Centeno stated that his decision is personal and does not have any political dimension. Now, the attention within the Socialist Party might turn to Elisa Ferreira, a respected figure, who has yet to comment on a possible candidacy.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What position does Mário Centeno currently hold?

Mário Centeno is the governor of Banco de Portugal.

Question 2: Who might be the candidate from the Socialist Party for the presidency?

Elisa Ferreira might be the candidate from the Socialist Party.

Exercise: Vocabulary

governador (m.) - governor

presidência (f.) - presidency

decisão (f.) - decision

dimensão (f.) - dimension

destaque (m.) - prominence

pronunciar - state

Read the full story

▌17/01/2025

Mário Centeno, the current governor of the Bank of Portugal, has definitively stated he will not run for the Portuguese presidency, quelling speculation about his potential candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections. In a candid interview broadcast on RTP3, Centeno articulated that standing for president is not within his plans, describing the decision as "very matured," reflecting both personal and professional considerations.

Centeno emphasized that his resolution to abstain from the presidential race is entirely a "personal decision," devoid of any "political dimension." He communicated his decision to a select group to prevent them from learning of it through media channels. Currently, Centeno remains focused on his roles within European financial circles, especially concerning inflation and interest rates, maintaining a gradualist approach in his public statements.

Mário Centeno Rules Out Presidential Bid (Illustration)

This announcement shifts the spotlight within the Socialist Party. Originally, some party members were poised to support Centeno should he have decided to run, but his withdrawal redirects their support. Attention now appears to be turning towards Elisa Ferreira, a former European Commissioner, who is perceived as uniting both historical and current factions within the party.

Ferreira, although not formally part of the Socialist Party, is considered a well-respected figure due to her extensive experience, including her tenure as vice-governor of the Bank of Portugal and multiple terms as a European Commissioner. However, she has distanced herself from discussions about the presidency, emphasizing her current focus on contributing in other capacities.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Mário Centeno Will Not Run for President (Visão)
With Centeno out of the race for Belém, the Socialist Party has a new favorite. (SIC Notícias)

Portuguese Health Minister Defends Winter Health Plan

2025-01-15T11:49:20+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A Ministra da Saúde, Ana Paula Martins, afirmou que o plano de inverno do SNS em Portugal está a funcionar bem. Há bons resultados na vacinação contra a gripe e COVID-19. Embora haja muita procura nos hospitais, tenta-se melhorar com novas estratégias , como exames médicos em casas de repouso e cooperação com outras organizações.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

The Minister of Health, Ana Paula Martins, stated that the winter plan of the National Health Service (SNS) in Portugal is working well. There are positive results in the vaccination efforts against the flu and COVID-19. Although there is high demand in hospitals, improvements are being sought through new strategies, such as conducting medical check-ups in care homes and collaboration with other organisations.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What did Ana Paula Martins say about the winter health plan in Portugal?

She said the winter health plan is working well.

Question 2: What are some strategies mentioned to improve the hospital situation?

Some strategies include medical check-ups in nursing homes and cooperation with other organizations.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ministro (f.) - minister

plano (m.) - plan

resultado (m.) - result

vacinação (f.) - vaccination

embora - although

estratégia (f.) - strategy

Read the full story

▌15/01/2025

In response to ongoing concerns about the Portuguese National Health System's (SNS) winter plan, Health Minister Ana Paula Martins has firmly rejected the notion that the initiatives are failing. Speaking during an event in Lisbon, the minister reiterated that the plan, devised by family health units, adheres to clear contingency measures which are being effectively followed.

The minister acknowledged the critical role of this initiative, highlighting successful vaccination coverage against both influenza and COVID-19 as pivotal components of the plan. Innovations, such as facilitating medical tests and exams directly from care homes, have also been introduced, preventing elderly patients from enduring long waits at health centres and hospitals.

Despite improvements in some facets, the overwhelming demand at hospital emergency units remains a pressing issue. The minister attributed this partly to the presence of patients who could be better served by ongoing care networks rather than hospital settings. Efforts are underway to address this misallocation, with collaboration from other ministries and support from the Recovery and Resilience Plan.

Portuguese Health Minister Defends Winter Health Plan (Illustration)

Across the nation, the winter plan’s effectiveness has varied. While some hospital emergency units have reported continued pressure, with wait times stretching beyond clinical recommendations, other regions have noted improvements. In Lisbon, the Hospital Beatriz Ângelo experienced particularly long wait times earlier this week, while the situation was more controlled in other hospitals like Sao Francisco Xavier and Amadora-Sintra, where waits have not exceeded two hours on average. Hospitals in the north, such as São João in Porto, have maintained recommended waiting periods.

Despite these challenges, experts caution that the situation could deteriorate once the flu peak season approaches. Vaccination remains a key strategy in curbing the spread of infections, with efforts continuing since late September through local pharmacies and health units.

Addressing these mounting concerns, Ana Paula Martins stressed that while winter is invariably challenging for health services globally, the SNS is diligently seeking solutions. She refrained from assessing the specifics of emergency service management, noting that it remains the purview of hospital clinical directors to evaluate and adapt service operations.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Liberal Initiative Prepares for Portuguese Presidential Election

2025-01-13T09:27:04+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O partido Iniciativa Liberal (IL) de Portugal vai anunciar seu candidato para as eleições presidenciais em breve. Rui Rocha, presidente do partido, falou sobre um candidato que valoriza a liberdade e reformas . A IL deseja correr sozinha nas eleições locais, mas não descarta parcerias com outros partidos. O anúncio foi feito em um evento no Porto.

Listen to this text (00:27)

Translation

The Liberal Initiative (IL) party of Portugal is set to announce its candidate for the presidential elections shortly. Rui Rocha, the party's president, spoke about a candidate who values freedom and reforms. The IL aims to run independently in local elections but does not rule out partnerships with other parties. The announcement was made at an event in Porto.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is the president of the Liberal Initiative party in Portugal?

Rui Rocha is the president of the Liberal Initiative party in Portugal.

Question 2: What does the Liberal Initiative party want to do in the local elections?

The Liberal Initiative party wants to run alone in the local elections but is open to partnerships with other parties.

Exercise: Vocabulary

candidato (m.) - candidate

presidencial - presidential

valorizar - value

reforma (f.) - reform

descartar - discard

anúncio (m.) - announcement

Read the full story

▌13/01/2025

The Liberal Initiative (IL) party of Portugal is gearing up to announce its candidate for the upcoming presidential elections. According to Rui Rocha, the party's president, the IL is set to reveal its support for a candidate in the coming weeks, as the timing is deemed appropriate.

Rui Rocha emphasized the party's commitment to offering an alternative and a solution for the presidential race. He stressed the importance of presenting a candidate who upholds the values of liberty, rigor, and a reformist vision for both Portugal and its governmental institutions. This announcement was made during a press briefing in Porto, at the sidelines of an event focused on his leadership campaign under the slogan "Accelerate Portugal." This is in preparation for the party’s upcoming convention scheduled for February in Loures, Lisbon district.

Liberal Initiative Prepares for Portuguese Presidential Election (Illustration)

While the specific identity of the candidate was not disclosed, Rocha affirmed that the person in question possesses the required enthusiasm, energy, and a liberal vision for the nation. He noted, "The moment will come when I will make this public challenge," indicating a clear understanding between the party and the individual about the candidacy.

Rocha also addressed the notion of potential alliances for the upcoming autumn local elections. He suggested that the IL should preferably run independently in the municipalities but did not completely rule out collaborations with other political parties. Such collaborations would be exceptional and must meet defined criteria.

In his address, Rocha described the ideal candidate as a "champion of freedom, a champion of rigor and transparency, and a champion in the quest for a more prosperous country." This aligns with the IL’s broader mission of implementing essential and urgent reforms to boost the economy and transform state institutions.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Carla Tavares Elected as New FAUL President

2025-01-11T11:20:52+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Carla Tavares venceu as eleições para liderar a Federação da Área Urbana de Lisboa (FAUL) com 71% dos votos. Tavares substitui Ricardo Leão após a sua demissão . Ela promete fortes candidaturas nas futuras eleições e foca em habitação acessível, mobilidade sustentável, segurança e justiça social. Tavares destaca colaboração e diálogo.

Listen to this text (00:28)

Translation

Carla Tavares has won the election to lead the Lisbon Urban Area Federation (FAUL) with 71% of the votes. Tavares replaces Ricardo Leão following his resignation. She promises strong candidacies in future elections and focuses on affordable housing, sustainable mobility, security, and social justice. Tavares emphasises collaboration and dialogue.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who did Carla Tavares replace as the president of FAUL?

Carla Tavares replaced Ricardo Leão.

Question 2: What percentage of votes did Carla Tavares receive in the election?

Carla Tavares received 71% of the votes.

Exercise: Vocabulary

vencer - win

liderar - lead

substituir - replace

demissão (f.) - resignation

candidatura (f.) - candidacy

habitação (f.) - housing

Read the full story

▌11/01/2025

Carla Tavares, a member of the European Parliament representing the Portuguese Socialist Party (PS), has emerged victorious in the interim elections to lead the Federation of the Urban Area of Lisbon (FAUL). In a decisive election, Tavares garnered 71% of the votes, defeating Miguel Prata Roque, who obtained 29%. Out of the six thousand eligible party members, 2,402 cast their vote for Tavares, while 991 supported Roque.

These elections were conducted following the resignation of the previous president, Ricardo Leão. Leão stepped down amid controversy over policies related to the eviction of individuals benefiting from social housing, which had sparked significant debate.

Following her win, Carla Tavares, who previously served as the president of the Amadora Municipal Council before taking up her role as an MEP, expressed gratitude to the supporting militants and extended her appreciation for her opponent's contributions. She expressed hope that Miguel Prata Roque would continue to play an active part in improving the Urban Area of Lisbon.

Carla Tavares Elected as New FAUL President (Illustration)

Upon taking office, Tavares pledged to forge strong and capable candidatures for upcoming local elections, emphasising the importance of electing candidates who embody competence and are committed to sustainable and social development in their areas. "The FAUL will remain open to dialogue, maintaining proximity to its militants, local structures, and society," Tavares assured, highlighting a collaborative approach.

The new president also outlined her vision for the FAUL, focusing on enhancing internal cohesion and fostering unity among members and elected representatives. She aims to develop proposals that reflect the genuine needs of the population. Key priorities under her leadership include accessible housing, sustainable mobility, security, climate transition, and social justice.

Tavares stated her commitment to listening to the people, associations, and social actors to build inclusive and effective local government programmes. She stressed that the strength of the Socialist Party lies in its pluralism and respect for differences, aiming to work towards common goals despite diverse perspectives.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Increase in Foreign Students Challenges Portuguese Schools

2025-01-08T12:29:07+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O relatório de 2023 sobre a educação em Portugal mostra um aumento de alunos estrangeiros, principalmente do Brasil, com desafios em inclusão e igualdade de acesso. O estudo destaca níveis altos de repetência e abandono escolar entre alunos imigrantes. Alerta para a necessidade de melhor formação de professores e métodos inovadores de ensino.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

The 2023 report on education in Portugal reveals an increase in foreign students, predominantly from Brazil, facing challenges in inclusion and equal access. The study highlights high levels of grade repetition and school dropout among immigrant students. It calls attention to the need for better teacher training and innovative teaching methods.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What are the two main challenges faced by foreign students in Portuguese schools according to the 2023 report?

High levels of repeating grades and school dropout rates.

Question 2: Which country's students are mentioned as the main source of foreign students in Portugal?

Brazil.

Exercise: Vocabulary

relatório (m.) - report

inclusão (f.) - inclusion

repetência (f.) - repeating a year

abandono (m.) - abandonment

necessidade (f.) - necessity

inovador - innovative

Read the full story

▌08/01/2025

The recently released State of Education 2023 report highlights the evolving demographics in Portuguese schools, with a significant rise in foreign students creating both opportunities and challenges across the educational landscape. According to the data, foreign nationals made up over 11.3% of students in the 2022/23 academic year, with the majority being from Brazil. This demographic shift demands focused efforts on inclusion and equitable access to education.

A particular concern is the high retention and dropout rates among students from immigrant families. This situation underscores the need for effective measures of inclusion and positive discrimination, as stated in the report. The question remains whether the discipline of Portuguese as a Non-Native Language (PLNM) adequately addresses the needs of these students, as nearly 14,000 are enrolled in PLNM courses, yet more than 55,000 non-Brazilian foreign students were attending schools in the same period, many with limited Portuguese proficiency.

Increase in Foreign Students Challenges Portuguese Schools (Illustration)

Geographical analysis shows a higher concentration of foreign students in the Algarve, while in regions like Greater Lisbon and the Setúbal Peninsula, they account for approximately 16.6% and 15%, respectively. Concurrently, figures indicate an increase in retention rates among middle school students over recent years, though lower primary levels have remained steady post-pandemic.

While Portugal has made strides in educational attainment, producing over 95,000 graduates in the past academic year—a 6.7% jump from the previous year—there remains an urgent call for innovative teaching methods and enhanced teacher training. The report by Domingos Fernandes, president of the National Council of Education, points out "significant deficiencies" in core skills such as mathematics and writing among younger students, urging a targeted enhancement of education quality from early stages.

In conclusion, the report calls for increased investment in teacher training, better pedagogical practices, and strategic measures to address inequality, especially focusing on students born abroad or those from diverse regional backgrounds. The rising number of foreign students presents a critical area for policy intervention to ensure that all students can thrive in the Portuguese education system.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Education in Portugal: Increase in Foreign Students and Rising Repetition Rates in Schools (Expresso.pt)
CNE Report: More Students in Schools, But Many Are Not Learning (SIC Notícias)
Report from CNE Highlights Growing Student Enrollment but Learning Shortfalls (SAPO.pt)
More Students Enroll in Schools, but Many Aren't Learning (NoticiasAoMinuto)

First US Human Death from Avian Flu Confirmed

2025-01-07T08:50:33+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Nos Estados Unidos, uma pessoa idosa faleceu devido à gripe aviária, após exposição a aves. O Departamento de Saúde avisa que o risco é maior para quem trabalha com aves. Em Portugal, um surto do vírus H5N1 ocorreu em uma vila perto de Lisboa. Além disso, a China enfrentava aumento em casos de HMPV.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

In the United States, an elderly person has passed away due to bird flu after being exposed to birds. The Department of Health warns that the risk is higher for those who work with birds. In Portugal, an outbreak of the H5N1 virus occurred in a village near Lisbon. Additionally, China was experiencing an increase in HMPV cases.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did the first US human death from avian flu happen?

In the United States, after exposure to birds.

Question 2: What advice did the Department of Health give?

They advised that the risk is higher for people who work with birds.

Exercise: Vocabulary

idoso - elderly

falecer - to pass away

exposição - exposure

surto - outbreak

ocorrer - occurred

enfrentar - faced

Read the full story

▌07/01/2025

The Department of Health in Louisiana has confirmed the first human death from avian flu in the United States. The deceased, an individual aged over 65, had been hospitalized since December 18 and suffered from "underlying health conditions," according to a statement from the department. Authorities indicated that the patient contracted the illness following exposure to non-commercial and wild birds.

While the public health risk remains low, the Department of Health warned that individuals working closely with birds or livestock, or those involved in recreational bird activities, face greater exposure risks. Nearly 70 cases of the virus have been reported in the US since April, primarily affecting agricultural workers in contact with sick birds or cattle, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

First US Human Death from Avian Flu Confirmed (Illustration)

The announcement coincides with a bird flu outbreak in Portugal, disclosed by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). In São João das Lampas, a village in the Lisbon district, an outbreak of the H5N1 virus was identified in a flock of over 55,000 poultry, resulting in the demise of 279 birds. Control measures, including the culling of infected animals and thorough sanitation procedures, have been enacted.

Speaking on the situation, Francisco Goiana da Silva, a physician and commentator, noted that such outbreaks are not unprecedented and have become increasingly common globally, including in countries like Portugal and the United States. Emphasizing safety, he assured that properly cooked poultry remains safe as the virus does not survive at high temperatures. Nonetheless, he urged authorities to maintain vigilance.

Alongside these developments, China is experiencing a rise in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Although concerns about a new pandemic have surfaced, Goiana da Silva clarified that HMPV, circulating for decades, does not parallel COVID-19 in severity. The current strain seems more aggressive than its predecessors, drawing attention from Chinese health authorities, yet it is not deemed comparable to the coronavirus pandemic.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

First Human Death from Bird Flu Confirmed in the U.S. (SAPO.pt)
Bird Flu and HMPV Virus Outbreak: Is There Cause for Concern? (SIC Notícias)

Porto to Receive First Hydrogen Metrobuses Early 2024

2025-01-04T09:26:57+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Porto vai receber dois novos autocarros movidos a hidrogénio entre Janeiro e Fevereiro de 2024. Estes autocarros serão testados e receberão certificação . O projeto inclui uma nova linha de metrobus que ligará pontos importantes da cidade, como a Casa da Música e a Praça do Império. O custo total é de 76 milhões de euros.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

Porto is set to receive two new hydrogen-powered buses between January and February 2024. These buses will undergo testing and certification. The project includes a new metrobus line that will connect key locations in the city, such as the Casa da Música and the Praça do Império. The total cost amounts to 76 million euros.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When will Porto receive the new hydrogen buses?

Porto will receive the new hydrogen buses between January and February 2024.

Question 2: What will the new metrobus line connect in the city?

The new metrobus line will connect important points in the city, like Casa da Música and Praça do Império.

Exercise: Vocabulary

receber - receive

mover - move

hidrogénio (m.) - hydrogen

certificação (f.) - certification

ligar - connect

projeto (m.) - project

Read the full story

▌04/01/2025

In a significant development for sustainable urban transport, the first two out of a dozen hydrogen-powered metro buses for the city of Porto are expected to arrive between late January and early February 2024. This information was disclosed by Metro do Porto on Friday.

Upon their arrival, these metro buses will undergo a comprehensive period of testing and driver training, scheduled to extend until April. During this time, necessary certification and approval procedures will be conducted in conjunction with Portugal's Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT).

Porto to Receive First Hydrogen Metrobuses Early 2024 (Illustration)

Initially, there was a consideration to begin operations using provisional vehicles, but this plan was discarded. Metro do Porto explained that such a solution would necessitate adaptations taking more time than the arrival of the permanent buses themselves.

In September, the Port's city council and the Sociedade de Transportes Coletivos do Porto (STCP) had proposed a temporary measure. They suggested that the newly constructed metrobus lane along Avenida da Boavista be used by the existing 203 line until the hydrogen buses became operational.

The new metrobus line in Porto will eventually connect popular destinations such as Casa da Música to Praça do Império, a journey taking around 12 minutes, and onwards to Anémona in approximately 17 minutes. The project represents a significant investment, with the buses themselves costing around 29.5 million euros, while the overall construction of the metrobus infrastructure amounts to approximately 76 million euros.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

First Metrobus Buses Arrive in Porto Between January and February (SAPO.pt)
First Metrobus Buses Arriving in Porto Between January and February (SIC Notícias)

Portuguese President Calls for Democratic Renewal

2025-01-02T16:17:11+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Presidente Marcelo falou no Ano Novo sobre a importância do "bom senso" e "solidariedade institucional" em Portugal. Ele destacou a proteção da liberdade e democracia, enfrentando problemas como a pobreza . Também ressaltou a importância da colaboração entre a União Europeia e os Estados Unidos e a necessidade de fortalecer a democracia nas eleições locais.

Listen to this text (00:27)

Translation

President Marcelo, in his New Year’s address, emphasised the significance of "common sense" and "institutional solidarity" in Portugal. He underscored the protection of freedom and democracy, tackling issues like poverty. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the European Union and the United States, as well as the need to fortify democracy in local elections.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What did President Marcelo mention as important elements in his New Year's speech?

He mentioned the importance of 'good sense' and 'institutional solidarity' in Portugal.

Question 2: What international collaboration did President Marcelo emphasize in his speech?

He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the European Union and the United States.

Exercise: Vocabulary

destacar - highlight

proteção (f.) - protection

pobreza (f.) - poverty

ressaltar - emphasise

colaboração (f.) - collaboration

fortalecer - strengthen

Read the full story

▌02/01/2025

In a New Year message that has sparked a variety of reactions across Portugal's political spectrum, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa addressed the nation with calls for "common sense" and "institutional solidarity". He emphasized the need to protect Portugal's freedom and democracy, acknowledging that the country faces enduring challenges that the current democratic regime has yet to solve, notably poverty.

President Rebelo de Sousa marked the 50-year anniversary of the 25th of April Revolution, highlighting the importance of learning from the past rather than repeating it. His address underlined the need for democratic renewal in Portugal to address the "fundamental problems" that persist, urging the country to utilize the upcoming local elections as a way to reinforce democratic engagement.

Besides domestic challenges, Rebelo de Sousa also focused on fostering a strong alliance between the European Union (EU) and the United States, stressing that less cooperation between them could benefit Russia and China. He encouraged the EU to develop its own military strength and address its economic and political weaknesses, in pursuit of establishing itself as a global power.

Portuguese President Calls for Democratic Renewal (Illustration)

Responses from political parties varied; many highlighted areas they felt were missing from the president’s address. Parties across the spectrum, from the Chega to the Iniciativa Liberal, criticized the absence of discussion on health, security, and state reform. Leaders from the Bloco de Esquerda and Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) were particularly concerned about socio-economic issues like health, education, and housing.

The Socialist Party (PS) acknowledged the president's calls for "common sense" but questioned the government's capacity to address the challenges cited by Rebelo de Sousa. Meanwhile, members of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) saw "harmony" between the president’s message and their own policy positions, especially around economic growth and poverty reduction.

The president’s call for enhanced institutional cooperation was supported by the People-Animals-Nature (PAN) Party, who agreed on the necessity of closer collaboration not only between the President and the Prime Minister but extending to Parliament as well. Some, however, expressed concerns that this focus on cooperation might dilute the scrutiny needed in governance, urging Rebelo de Sousa to maintain pressure on the government for effective policy-making.

As the year progresses, the diverse reactions to the president’s message highlight the ongoing debate in Portugal about how to best navigate a rapidly changing national and international landscape.

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Portuguese Attitudes Split on Immigration Policy

2024-12-18T14:55:42+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O estudo da Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos mostra que a maioria dos portugueses vê os imigrantes como essenciais para a economia , mas quer regras melhores para a imigração. Há preocupações com imigrantes do subcontinente indiano. Muitos portugueses acham que a imigração está ligada a mais crimes, mas apoiam a integração dos imigrantes.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

A study conducted by the Francisco Manuel dos Santos Foundation indicates that most Portuguese people view immigrants as essential to the economy, yet they desire better regulations for immigration. There are concerns regarding immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. Many Portuguese associate immigration with increased crime rates, but they support the integration of immigrants.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What do most Portuguese people think about immigrants and the economy?

They think immigrants are essential for the economy.

Question 2: What do many Portuguese believe about immigration and crime?

Many Portuguese believe that immigration is linked to more crimes.

Exercise: Vocabulary

estudo (m.) - study

essencial - essential

economia (f.) - economy

regra (f.) - rules

preocupação (f.) - concerns

integração (f.) - integration

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▌18/12/2024

A recent immigration survey by the Francisco Manuel dos Santos Foundation reveals a complex picture of Portuguese attitudes towards immigration. Conducted nationally, the study indicates that around two-thirds of respondents view immigrants as crucial to the economy, although there is a parallel desire for more regulated immigration.

One significant finding is the increasing concern over migrants from the Indian subcontinent. The survey shows that a majority — 60% — of those questioned wish for fewer immigrants from this region, a sentiment that highlights "a clear distrust," particularly when compared to the more favorable perception of immigrants from Western countries.

Despite these apprehensions, many Portuguese (68%) still recognize the essential role immigrants play in the workforce, particularly in industries like agriculture, fisheries, and hospitality, which rely heavily on non-native labor. In fact, contributions from immigrants to the Social Security System significantly outweighed the benefits they claimed, with a reported positive balance of €2193 million for 2023.

Another narrative that emerged from the study is the perceived connection between immigration and increased crime rates. Two-thirds of respondents attribute a rise in criminal activity to foreign nationals, although official statistics have not shown an increase in crime linked to immigrants.

Portuguese Attitudes Split on Immigration Policy (Illustration)

Interestingly, immigration policy is viewed as too lenient by the Portuguese, with 76% advocating for stricter control measures. This includes a preference for vetted entry rather than open-ended arrivals, which aligns with recent governmental strategies focusing on work-related visas at the point of origin.

The issue becomes more layered with the inclusion of political leanings, as respondents who identify with right-leaning positions tend to have more opposition to immigration, particularly from African nations and the subcontinent.

Besides economic importance, the tensions surrounding immigration narratives also touch on culture. Over half of the survey participants expressed concerns that immigration might erode Portuguese cultural values and traditions.

Despite these concerns, there remains significant support for integration measures, with more than half of respondents backing rights such as voting for immigrants and easing naturalization processes, provided they fulfill legal requirements.

Overall, the findings depict a society grappling with reconciling the economic advantages of immigration with cultural and security concerns, calling for a balanced and well-regulated approach to future immigration policy.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

"We want immigrants to come, but through regulated pathways" (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Two-thirds of Portuguese want fewer Indian immigrants and believe foreigners contribute to increased crime. (Expresso.pt)
"Vital for the economy, yet...: anti-immigration policy is on the rise in Portugal" (SIC Notícias)
What Do the Portuguese Think About Immigrants? (Visão)

Portuguese Government Studies Algarve Water Supply Plan

2024-12-16T16:10:34+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O governo português quer melhorar o abastecimento de água no Algarve. Eles vão usar a água da barragem de Alqueva para ajudar. Espanha deixou Portugal usar água do rio Guadiana. Também, projetos ajudarão comunidades a ter mais acesso à água. É um plano importante para melhorar a gestão da água no país.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Portuguese government aims to improve water supply in the Algarve. They intend to use water from the Alqueva dam to assist in this effort. Spain has allowed Portugal to utilise water from the Guadiana River. Additionally, projects will support communities in gaining better access to water. It is a crucial plan to enhance water management in the country.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What country let Portugal use water from the Guadiana river?

Spain let Portugal use water from the Guadiana river.

Question 2: What is the purpose of the water supply plan in Algarve?

The purpose is to improve water management in the country and help communities have more access to water.

Exercise: Vocabulary

governo (m.) - government

melhorar - to improve

abastecimento (m.) - supply

barragem (f.) - dam

gestão (f.) - management

comunidade (f.) - communities

Read the full story

▌16/12/2024

The Portuguese government is exploring a new initiative to address water supply issues in the Algarve region by harnessing resources from the Alqueva reservoir. This ambitious plan involves linking Alqueva to the Santa Clara reservoir in the Alentejo and subsequently to the Bravura dam in the Algarve.

During an announcement in Faro, Maria da Graça Carvalho, Minister of Environment and Energy, revealed that the integration of these reservoirs is made feasible following Spain's approval for Portugal to use 60 cubic hectometres of water from the River Guadiana. The plan allocates 30 cubic hectometres for the Pomarão water intake and another 30 for bolstering Alqueva. Carvalho emphasized that this strategic move is currently under study and aims to establish robust water links capable of distributing water efficiently to both the eastern and western parts of the Algarve.

This development coincides with the launch of the construction tender for the Pomarão water intake project, during which multiple agreements were also ratified to implement water accessibility solutions for communities in Mesquita and Espírito Santo within the Beja district. These agreements envision improving water supply to approximately 300 residents who have long relied on water delivery via tanker trucks despite the proximity to abundant water resources.

Portuguese Government Studies Algarve Water Supply Plan (Illustration)

Furthering the efforts to address water resilience, Carvalho mentioned plans for significant interventions in the wetlands and stream systems of Baixo Alentejo and the Algarve. Funded with a 40 million euro budget from the Regional Operational Programme, the initiative includes establishing two significant water reserves at the Vascão and Odeceixe rivers. These are positioned to be crucial for national water management strategies.

Moreover, coordinated efforts with the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) and the Mértola municipal council are underway to prepare studies for revitalizing the Guadiana riverbanks. Part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan reprogramming, a proposal for 10 million euros funding has been submitted to the European Commission to enhance the river's ecological and aesthetic value beyond merely economic use.

The announcement event also marked the inauguration of the Water Pavilion, an exhibition organized by Águas do Algarve, highlighting ongoing enhancements and collaborations in water management including agreements with municipal authorities to rectify and improve water infrastructure and sanitation in regions like Castro Marim.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Government Considers Supplying Water to the Algarve from Alqueva (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Government Explores Supplying Water to the Algarve from Alqueva (SIC Notícias)

PCP Congress: Criticism of NATO and Socialist Government

2024-12-14T10:46:27+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O 22º Congresso do Partido Comunista Português aconteceu em Almada. O novo Secretário-Geral , Paulo Raimundo, criticou a NATO e a União Europeia. Ele também falou sobre a política nacional, criticando partidos em Portugal. O Congresso quer mais jovens e mulheres no partido e apoia Cuba. Querem aumentar os membros do partido.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

The 22nd Congress of the Portuguese Communist Party took place in Almada. The new General Secretary, Paulo Raimundo, criticised NATO and the European Union. He also addressed national politics, criticising parties in Portugal. The Congress aims to recruit more young people and women into the party and expresses support for Cuba. They want to increase the number of party members.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did the 22nd Congress of the Portuguese Communist Party take place?

The 22nd Congress of the Portuguese Communist Party took place in Almada.

Question 2: Who is the new Secretary-General mentioned in the summary?

The new Secretary-General mentioned in the summary is Paulo Raimundo.

Exercise: Vocabulary

congresso (m.) - congress

acontecer - happen

secretário-geral (m.) - secretary-general

criticar - criticise

aumentar - increase

apoiar - support

Read the full story

▌14/12/2024

The 22nd Congress of the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) began on a high note of political critique as delegates gathered in Almada. Paulo Raimundo, making his debut as Secretary-General, delivered a fiery speech targeting the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union (EU), accusing them of complicity in conflicts, particularly highlighting their roles in the ongoing "genocide" against Palestine.

Raimundo's address, lasting nearly an hour and attended by around 1,000 delegates, tackled both international and domestic affairs. He criticized the Portuguese Socialist Party (PS), accusing it of collaboration with the current government, despite its claims to the contrary. According to him, the PS, along with other right-leaning parties like the PSD and CDS, aligns with economic elites at the expense of workers and national sovereignty.

PCP Congress: Criticism of NATO and Socialist Government (Illustration)

The Congress, known for its staunch left-wing positions, also addressed what Raimundo described as an "anticommunist offensive," tied to a global campaign of disinformation. He argued that massive economic groups and digital networks are orchestrating these efforts to manipulate public perception and rewrite historical narratives, including that of the Portuguese Revolution.

A significant focus of the Congress is restructuring the Communist Party's central committee to include younger members and more women. Raimundo emphasized the challenge facing the PCP: reversing a recent decline in electoral support by boosting member recruitment.

In addition to ideological discourse, the Congress was marked by moments of solidarity, such as the delegates chanting in support of Cuba, reflecting the PCP's enduring internationalist solidarity.

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Ponte da Barca Entrepreneur's Generous Christmas Initiative

2024-12-11T14:19:34+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Nelson Cerqueira é um empresário em Ponte da Barca. Ele ajuda pessoas carentes no Natal. Ele coleta alimentos e roupas para famílias. As doações são feitas na Flow Gym. Ele faz isso há anos. Este ano, quer coletar 1.000 quilos de comida . As pessoas agradecem e admiram seu trabalho.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Nelson Cerqueira is a businessman in Ponte da Barca. He assists needy people during Christmas. Nelson collects food and clothes for families. Donations are made at Flow Gym. He has been doing this for years. This year, he aims to collect 1,000 kilograms of food. People are grateful and admire his work.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where are the donations collected for Nelson Cerqueira's initiative?

The donations are collected at Flow Gym.

Question 2: How much food does Nelson Cerqueira want to collect this year?

He wants to collect 1,000 kilos of food this year.

Exercise: Vocabulary

empresário (m.) - entrepreneur

carente - needy

coletar - collect

doação (f.) - donation

admirar - admire

comida (f.) - food

Read the full story

▌11/12/2024

In the charming village of Ponte da Barca, a local entrepreneur named Nelson Cerqueira is drawing attention with his heartwarming initiative to support the less fortunate during the Christmas season. This year, he is once again collecting food and clothing to distribute to families in need.

According to local news sources, participants in this charitable venture can donate their contributions at the Flow Gym, situated next to the municipal pools of Ponte da Barca. These items, ranging from food to clothing, will be gathered and organized by Nelson Cerqueira himself, with plans to distribute them to recipients a few days ahead of Christmas.

Ponte da Barca Entrepreneur's Generous Christmas Initiative (Illustration)

This initiative is not Cerqueira's first. For several years, he has quietly organized similar events, although it is only recently that he has begun to publicize these acts of generosity. In previous efforts, he has prepared and delivered more than 200 meals directly on Christmas Day and provided food hampers, allowing families to prepare their own holiday feasts.

This year's goal is ambitious, with aims to collect over 1,000 kilograms of food, a target Cerqueira has surpassed in years past. His efforts have garnered widespread praise on social media, with locals commending his altruism and dedication. Comments on a Facebook post by local radio station Barca FM highlight the community's appreciation, with many expressing heartfelt gratitude for Cerqueira's efforts and calling him a "humanitarian giant."

While Nelson Cerqueira has been organizing these charitable initiatives for over three years, he often prefers to keep them low-profile, focusing on action rather than publicity. This aspect of his character has endeared him to many in the community, who view him as a genuine benefactor during a time of need.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

In Ponte da Barca, Businessman Distributes Food to Families in Need This Christmas (SIC Notícias)
In Ponte da Barca, Entrepreneur Distributes Food to Needy Families for Christmas (SAPO.pt)
Ponte da Barca Businessman Provides Food to Needy Families This Christmas (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Polar Air Mass Brings Cold and Rain to Portugal

2024-12-09T11:55:36+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Em Portugal, as temperaturas estão a baixar muito devido a uma massa de ar polar . O frio vem do nordeste por causa de ventos fortes. Espera-se chuva no sul durante a semana. As temperaturas máximas são entre 4°C e 17°C; as mínimas podem descer para -2°C. Há também possibilidade de neve .

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

In Portugal, temperatures are dropping significantly due to a polar air mass. The cold is coming from the northeast because of strong winds. Rain is expected in the south for the week. Maximum temperatures range between 4°C and 17°C; minimum temperatures could drop to -2°C. There is also a possibility of snow.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where is the cold weather in Portugal coming from?

The cold weather is coming from the northeast due to strong winds.

Question 2: What is the expected temperature range in Portugal?

The maximum temperatures are between 4°C and 17°C; the minimum temperatures can drop to -2°C.

Exercise: Vocabulary

muito - very

dever - due to

massa - mass

polar - polar

neve - snow

possibilidade - possibility

Read the full story

▌09/12/2024

A significant drop in temperatures has arrived in Portugal as a polar air mass spreads over the Iberian Peninsula. According to the Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA), the onset of this cold spell is due to a northeastern airflow induced by a high-pressure system near the British Isles, bringing cold air across the peninsula.

However, the chill may not be the only weather event this week. By midweek, a depression is expected to develop off the west coast, potentially altering the airflow to the southwest. This could lead to widespread showers, anticipated to be more frequent in southern Portugal.

Meteorologist Ângela Lourenço emphasized an increase in wind intensity and a noticeable drop in temperatures, which may persist until Wednesday. Slight stabilization or a minor rise in temperatures might occur by Thursday, the 12th, depending on the depression's exact position.

Polar Air Mass Brings Cold and Rain to Portugal (Illustration)

The polar air, combined with prevailing winds, will enhance the sensation of cold across the country, resulting in a substantial temperature drop in both maximum and minimum levels. Maximum temperatures are expected to range from 4°C to 12°C in the interior North and Central regions, from 10°C to 16°C in the South, and between 12°C to 17°C along the coastal areas. Minimum temperatures could plummet as low as -2°C in the interior, hinting at a frigid week ahead.

Meteorologist Maria João Frade corroborated the forecasts, noting that temperatures in cities like Viseu and Guarda might dip below zero starting Monday. The cold is compounded by strong winds, particularly affecting nighttime conditions.

Forecasts for the northern and central interiors indicate possibilities of frost and even snowfall in elevated areas, a typical winter scenario according to meteorologist Miguel Miranda. Meanwhile, the Portuguese islands will experience milder weather, with rain showers predicted for the Azores.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Polar Air Mass Arrives, Joined by Potential Depression Affecting the Country (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Weather Update: Polar Air Mass Brings More Cold and Below-Freezing Temperatures (SIC Notícias)

Manuel Pizarro Announces Porto Mayoral Bid

2024-12-07T11:19:14+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Manuel Pizarro, ex-Ministro da Saúde, é o candidato do Partido Socialista para as eleições municipais de 2025 em Porto. Ele foi escolhido com 61 votos a favor. O PS quer recuperar a liderança de Porto, não conquistada desde 2001. Pizarro tem experiência política e o PS acredita no seu potencial .

Listen to this text (00:25)

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is the candidate for the Socialist Party in Porto?

Manuel Pizarro is the candidate for the Socialist Party in Porto.

Question 2: How was Manuel Pizarro chosen as a candidate?

Manuel Pizarro was chosen with 61 votes in favor.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ministro (m.) - minister

candidato (m.) - candidate

eleição (f.) - election

municipal - municipal

experiência (f.) - experience

potencial (m.) - potential

Read the full story

▌07/12/2024

Manuel Pizarro, former Minister of Health, has been elected by the local committee of the Socialist Party (PS) to be their lead candidate for the Porto City Council in the upcoming municipal elections set for 2025. The decision was reached with a significant majority, marking Pizarro's third bid for this role.

In a recent vote, Pizarro's candidacy was confirmed by 61 votes in favour, with just four against and no abstentions. This decision reflects the PS's commitment to reclaim the leadership of Porto, a position they have not held since 2001, when Nuno Cardoso lost to social democrat Rui Rio.

Tiago Barbosa Ribeiro, the head of PS Porto's local committee, expressed confidence in Pizarro's ability to lead a victorious campaign in 2025. He praised the "exemplary process" that resulted in Pizarro's selection and highlighted the candidate's potential to not only unify the party but also engage the wider community in a transformative local government project.

Manuel Pizarro Announces Porto Mayoral Bid (Illustration)

Pizarro's political career is well-established, having served as a deputy in Portugal's Assembly of the Republic and holding several positions in the health sector. His leadership roles have spanned from being Secretary of State in various capacities to a tenure as the Minister of Health, where he introduced significant reforms.

The current mayor, Rui Moreira, an independent, will not be eligible for another term due to limits on consecutive mandates. This electoral context provides a fresh opportunity for change, which the PS aims to seize through Pizarro's candidacy.

As the PS prepares for the general elections, their choice for Porto's leadership will be further formalized at a meeting of the PS district leaders on December 17. The effort to recapture political control of Porto marks a strategic focal point for the socialist party in the forthcoming electoral cycle.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Confirmed: Manuel Pizarro to Run for Porto City Council with the Socialist Party (SIC Notícias)
Manuel Pizarro to Run as PS Candidate for Porto City Council (SAPO.pt)

Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort to Porto Cancer Patients

2024-12-04T15:22:33+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

No IPO do Porto, cães de terapia visitam pacientes com câncer para oferecer apoio emocional. Zazu, um Golden Retriever, e Heartie, um Border Collie, ajudam a aliviar a dor e melhorar o bem-estar . As visitas são organizadas pela Ânimas Associação e trazem alegria e tranquilidade para pacientes , suas famílias e profissionais de saúde.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

At the IPO in Porto, therapy dogs visit cancer patients to offer emotional support. Zazu, a Golden Retriever, and Heartie, a Border Collie, help to alleviate pain and improve well-being. The visits are organised by Ânimas Association and bring joy and tranquillity to patients, their families, and health professionals.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who organizes the therapy dog visits at the Porto hospital?

The therapy dog visits are organized by Ânimas Associação.

Question 2: What is the purpose of the therapy dog visits?

The purpose is to offer emotional support, help alleviate pain, and improve the well-being of cancer patients.

Exercise: Vocabulary

terapia (f.) - therapy

paciente (m.) - patient

melhorar - improve

bem-estar (m.) - well-being

organizar - organise

tranquilidade (f.) - tranquility

Read the full story

▌04/12/2024

At the Portuguese Institute of Oncology (IPO) in Porto, patients receiving palliative care are now accompanied by two special visitors each week: therapy dogs Zazu and Heartie. Initiated by the Ânimas Association, this programme aims to ease the suffering of cancer patients, offering emotional support through the visits of these furry companions.

Zazu, a three-year-old Golden Retriever, and Heartie, a 22-month-old Border Collie, are part of a larger effort to provide meaningful emotional interactions between patients and animals. Accompanied by their trainers, Catarina Cascais and Abílio Leite, the dogs navigate the hospital corridors bringing comfort and joy to the individuals they encounter.

Catarina Cascais expressed that the primary goal of the programme is to create a more relaxed environment, working to improve the quality of life, reduce anxiety, and ease symptoms of depression. The dogs' presence aims to decrease feelings of loneliness and enhance interpersonal relationships among patients, healthcare professionals, and families.

Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort to Porto Cancer Patients (Illustration)

The psychological benefits observed from these interactions have been particularly noteworthy. According to Sónia Castro, head of the Psychology team at the IPO, the contact with the animals activates neural systems associated with tranquillity and pleasure, yielding visible emotional gains for patients and their families. She noted that these uplifting effects often extend well into the following days, giving patients something to look forward to each week.

Medical professionals, including Débora Filipe, coordinator of the activity, have also seen reductions in stress, insomnia, and pain among patients after interacting with the dogs. This interaction has given many patients, who face extended hospital stays, not only an immediate sense of joy but also a longer-term goal by eagerly awaiting the dogs' return.

Among those benefiting from these visits is Ermelinda Pereira, an oncology patient who eagerly interacts with Zazu. For Ermelinda, the presence of Zazu is a precious source of happiness, rekindling fond memories and allowing moments of reprieve from her illness.

The positive impact of this animal-assisted intervention extends beyond the patients themselves, influencing their families and the healthcare team. As recounted by Maria Oliveira, whose husband is a patient, the presence of Zazu and Heartie evokes a similar connection to their own pet, highlighting the deep spiritual bonds that form between humans and animals. Such experiences underscore the significance of this therapy, marking it as a beacon of hope and comfort within the confines of the hospital.

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Lisbon Metro Strikes to Impact Services in December

2024-12-02T10:39:48+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Metro de Lisboa começará a funcionar às 10:30 nos dias 3 e 10 de dezembro devido a uma greve de trabalhadores. Normalmente, o metro abre às 6:30 e tem quatro linhas. A greve acontece porque os trabalhadores querem pagamento justo para horas extras e feriados . A empresa está a negociar com os sindicatos.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

The Lisbon Metro will start operating at 10:30 a.m. on the 3rd and 10th of December due to a workers' strike. Normally, the metro opens at 6:30 a.m. and has four lines. The strike is occurring because employees are demanding fair pay for overtime and public holidays. The company is in negotiations with the unions.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: At what time will the Lisbon Metro open on December 3rd and 10th?

The Lisbon Metro will open at 10:30 on December 3rd and 10th.

Question 2: Why are the workers going on strike?

The workers are going on strike for fair payment for overtime and holidays.

Exercise: Vocabulary

funcionar - to function

dever - due

greve (f.) - strike

justo - fair

feriado (m.) - holiday

negociar - to negotiate

Read the full story

▌02/12/2024

The Lisbon Metro has announced that services will start at 10:30 AM on the 3rd and 10th of December due to a planned strike by workers. The strikes are set to occur between the hours of 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM, as confirmed by the company on Sunday.

Typically, the metro operates from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM across its four lines: Yellow (Rato-Odivelas), Green (Telheiras-Cais do Sodré), Blue (Reboleira-Santa Apolónia), and Red (Aeroporto-São Sebastião). However, the planned work stoppages will delay the start of operations until mid-morning.

Lisbon Metro Strikes to Impact Services in December (Illustration)

The strike is driven by workers' demands for the payment of what are referred to as 'variables'—which include overtime and holiday pay—and the enforcement of existing company agreements. Earlier strikes on the 6th and 14th of November saw significant participation, with approximately 90% of workers adhering to the strike, leading to delayed openings of metro stations.

The Lisbon Metro is committed to maintaining dialogue with worker unions, with hopes of reaching an agreement that could potentially avert the strikes. Union representatives have indicated that partial strike actions may be withdrawn if their demands are met.

In recent discussions, Sara Gligó from the Federation of Transport and Communications Unions (Fectrans) highlighted that the company had previously committed to paying the variables for 2023 and 2024, a commitment which, according to the unions, has not yet been fulfilled. In response, the Lisbon Metro claims that all due remunerations have been paid, including those for extra work and rest days, asserting that there are no outstanding payments or debts to employees.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Lisbon Metro to Open at 10:30 AM from December 3 to 10 (SIC Notícias)
Attention: Lisbon Metro Services Delayed Until 10:30 AM from December 3 to 10 Due to Strike (SAPO.pt)

Portuguese Education Minister Faces Scrutiny Over Data Error

2024-11-30T11:01:03+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Ministro da Educação de Portugal, Fernando Alexandre, reconheceu problemas nos dados sobre alunos sem aulas. Antes, disseram que havia 90% menos alunos sem aulas, mas isso pode não ser verdade. Agora, o Ministério está verificando os números novamente para garantir a sua precisão . Há preocupação e pedidos de mais explicações.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

The Portuguese Minister of Education, Fernando Alexandre, acknowledged issues with the data concerning students without classes. It was previously reported that there were 90% fewer students without classes, but this may not be accurate. The Ministry is now re-evaluating the numbers to ensure their accuracy. There is concern and calls for further clarification.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What problem did the Portuguese Education Minister admit to?

He admitted to problems with the data about students without classes.

Question 2: What is the Ministry doing to address the data issue?

The Ministry is checking the numbers again to ensure their accuracy.

Exercise: Vocabulary

reconhecer - recognise

dado (m.) - data

ministério (m.) - ministry

verificar - verify

garantir - ensure

precisão (f.) - accuracy

Read the full story

▌29/11/2024

In recent developments, the Portuguese Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation, Fernando Alexandre, has acknowledged inconsistencies in the official statistics regarding students lacking classes, which were initially presented by the Government. These statistics claimed a remarkable reduction of 90% in students missing out on at least one subject during the first term compared to the previous year. However, the minister has admitted that these figures may not accurately reflect reality due to contradictory data received at various stages.

According to a report by Expresso, the minister confessed that the current lack of reliable information renders any comparison with the previous academic year impossible. Discrepancies have emerged between the numbers shared by the former Minister of Education, João Costa, and those communicated by the government, prompting the Ministry of Education to question the accuracy of all the data released thus far.

Portuguese Education Minister Faces Scrutiny Over Data Error (Illustration)

In light of the controversy, the Ministry has instructed the General Directorate of Schools (DGEstE) to re-examine the data for the 2023/2024 school year to ensure its accuracy. The figures initially disclosed by DGEstE reported 7,381 students without classes at the start of the academic year, which reduced to 3,295 by the end of the first term. These numbers significantly differ from the earlier government estimate of 21,000 students affected, which the government had used to justify the claimed 90% reduction.

The situation has sparked a request from the political party Iniciativa Liberal (IL) for an urgent hearing with the minister in the parliamentary committee for Education and Science. The IL emphasizes the need for clarity, stating that since the campaign dubbed Plan +Classes +Success, launched at the beginning of the school year, the numbers presented have consistently been flawed and corrected subsequently.

The minister has expressed regret over the misleading data and has ordered an external audit to further examine the figures related to the number of students without classes. Meanwhile, political and public scrutiny continues to mount as calls for a comprehensive explanation grow louder.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

"Regret": Minister Acknowledges "Contradictory Data" on Students Missing Classes (NoticiasAoMinuto)
IL urgently seeks to hear from the Education Minister after 'mea culpa' on the number of students without classes (SIC Notícias)

Portuguese Pension Increase Vote Postponed amid Political Tensions

2024-11-27T07:05:25+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O aumento das pensões em Portugal foi adiado para esta semana. Os partidos discutem as propostas de aumento , com o Partido Socialista (PS) e o Partido Social Democrata (PSD) em desacordo. A maioria dos reformados deve ganhar mais. O governo quer que o aumento cubra a inflação . Pensionistas aguardam a decisão.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

The increase in pensions in Portugal has been postponed to this week. The parties are debating the proposals for an increase, with the Socialist Party (PS) and the Social Democratic Party (PSD) in disagreement. Most retirees are expected to receive more. The government aims for the increase to cover inflation. Pensioners are awaiting the decision.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Which parties are involved in the pension increase discussions in Portugal?

The Socialist Party (PS) and the Social Democratic Party (PSD) are involved in the discussions.

Question 2: What does the government want the pension increase to cover?

The government wants the pension increase to cover inflation.

Exercise: Vocabulary

aumento (m.) - increase

adiar - postpone

discutir - discuss

cobrir - cover

inflação (f.) - inflation

aguardar - await

Read the full story

▌27/11/2024

The debate over the proposed pension increases in Portugal has been further intensified following the postponement of the vote in the country's parliament. Initiated at the request of the Chega party, the proposals from various parties, including adjustments suggested by the Portuguese Socialist Party (PS), will now be considered later this week. This delay has sparked a mix of reactions among political factions and the public.

The original schedule had set the vote for Tuesday, during a session of the Budget and Finance Committee. However, the rescheduling to Thursday, which marks the final day for discussions, has led to a heated exchange between the PS and the opposition party, the Social Democratic Party (PSD). The primary contention revolves around accusations of political opportunism and irresponsibility, with each party blaming the other for exploiting the matter to their advantage.

Despite the political back-and-forth, the proposed adjustments have garnered attention due to their potential impact on pensioners. According to data from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, over 90% of retirees are expected to benefit from pension increases that outpace the inflation rate projected for 2025. Specifically, pensions valued at up to two Index of Social Support (IAS) levels are set to rise by approximately 3.8%, whereas pensions between two and three IAS levels are expected to see an increase of about 3.25%.

Portuguese Pension Increase Vote Postponed amid Political Tensions (Illustration)

For pensions ranging between three and six IAS, the estimated rise stands at 2%, supported by the regular adjustment formula. Meanwhile, pensions between six and twelve IAS could see a modest 1.75% increase. Those above twelve IAS might not experience any increases. The forthcoming announcements on Portugal's economic growth and inflation figures by the National Statistics Institute will play a crucial role in finalizing the pension increment percentages.

The proposals to increase pensions form a key part of the amendments to the national Budget for 2025, underpinning the governing party's economic strategy. The PS's suggestion for an additional uplift of 1.25 percentage points for pensions up to three IAS underscores the government's aim to align pension growth with, or above, inflation levels.

As the parliamentary committee prepares for the crucial vote, both the government and opposition parties are urging for prudent decision-making. Amidst the political manoeuvring, many Portuguese pensioners await the outcome, with their future financial security hinging on these parliamentary decisions.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Vote on Pension Increase Postponed: PS Claims Government Already Defeated, Government Urges Caution (Expresso.pt)
Over 90% of retirees will see pension increases outpacing inflation in 2025 (Visão)
Over 90% of retirees will receive increases above inflation (Correio da Manhã)

Sintra Parks Honoured as Top Conservation Company Again

2024-11-25T10:54:38+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A empresa Parques de Sintra-Monte da Lua (PSML) ganhou o prêmio de "Melhor Empresa de Conservação do Mundo" pela 12ª vez. PSML gerencia parques em Sintra, como o Palácio Nacional da Pena. Eles usam o dinheiro dos bilhetes para restaurar e melhorar os parques . Recebem muitos visitantes e não dependem de dinheiro do governo.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

The company Parques de Sintra-Monte da Lua (PSML) has been awarded the title of "Best Conservation Company in the World" for the 12th time. PSML manages parks in Sintra, such as the Pena National Palace. They use ticket sales revenue to restore and enhance the parks. They receive many visitors and do not rely on government funding.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many times has Parques de Sintra-Monte da Lua won the Best Conservation Company award?

They have won it 12 times.

Question 2: What do they use the ticket money for?

They use it to restore and improve the parks.

Exercise: Vocabulary

empresa (f.) - company

parque (m.) - park

prêmio (m.) - prize

conservação (f.) - conservation

restaurar - restore

visitante (m.) - visitor

Read the full story

▌25/11/2024

Parques de Sintra-Monte da Lua (PSML), a public company managing Portugal’s Sintra parks, has once again been named the "World's Leading Conservation Company" at the prestigious World Travel Awards. The accolade, presented during a gala in Funchal, Madeira, marks the twelfth consecutive year the company has received this honour.

These awards, often referred to as the "Oscars of tourism," have been recognising excellence since 1993 and are globally acknowledged as a mark of quality in the industry. Winners are selected through online voting, participated in by both industry professionals and the general public.

PSML's continued success is attributed to its innovative management approach, aimed at maintaining and restoring cultural and natural heritage sites. Sofia Cruz, PSML's chairwoman, attributed this achievement to a successful project that leverages knowledge and professionalism in a sensitive cultural area to foster continual improvement. Over the last decade, this strategy has attracted over 25 million visitors to their sites.

Sintra Parks Honoured as Top Conservation Company Again (Illustration)

The company, managing landmarks such as the National Palace of Pena, the Sintra and Queluz National Palaces, and the Monserrate Palace and Gardens, reinvests ticket sales and other revenue into conservation efforts. From these revenues, PSML invests heavily in preserving and enhancing the areas it manages—including a 40-million-euro investment in the past ten years, with plans for a further 30 million euros in the future.

PSML, established in 2000 following UNESCO's designation of the Sintra Cultural Landscape as a World Heritage Site, is a public corporation backed by entities like the Treasury and Finance Directorate-General, the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests, Tourism of Portugal, and the Sintra Municipality. Significantly, the company operates independently of state funding, ensuring the self-sufficiency of its operations.

The company's accomplishments have garnered national recognition, highlighting the growth and high quality of Portugal’s tourism offerings as reflected in its multiple awards at the World Travel Awards.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Parques de Sintra Recognized for the 12th Consecutive Year as the World's Best in Conservation (SAPO.pt)
Parques de Sintra Wins Best in Conservation Award for the 12th Time (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Super Bock Super Rock Changes Organisers After 29 Years

2024-11-23T11:55:04+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O festival Super Bock Super Rock em Portugal terá novas alterações . Não será mais organizado por Música no Coração após 28 anos. As novas datas são 17 a 19 de julho de 2025. O festival é famoso por "Meco, Sol e Rock N' Roll" e recebe artistas famosos. A nova organização será anunciada em breve.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

The Super Bock Super Rock festival in Portugal will undergo changes. It will no longer be organised by Música no Coração after 28 years. The new dates are set for 17th to 19th July 2025. The festival is well-known for its "Meco, Sun and Rock N' Roll" and features famous artists. The new organisers will be announced shortly.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When did the Super Bock Super Rock festival start?

The festival started in 1995.

Question 2: When will the next Super Bock Super Rock festival take place?

The next festival will take place on July 17, 18, and 19, 2025.

Exercise: Vocabulary

organização (f.) - organisation

gerir - manage

próximo - next

organizador (m.) - organiser

anunciar - announce

famoso - famous

Read the full story

▌22/11/2024

The Super Bock Super Rock, one of Portugal's most iconic music festivals, will experience a significant shift in its organisation as it enters a new era. After nearly three decades, the festival will no longer be managed by Música no Coração, the promotion company led by Luís Montez. This change follows the conclusion of its contract with Super Bock, the event's long-time partner and sponsor. The festival dates for the next edition are planned for 17th, 18th, and 19th of July 2025, although the new organiser is yet to be named.

The Super Bock Super Rock festival began its journey in 1995, debuting at the Gare Marítima de Alcântara in Lisbon. Over the years, it evolved in format and location, carving out a rich history in Portugal's music scene. Recently, it has been hosted at the Herdade do Cabeço da Flauta, near Meco in the Sesimbra municipality, where it became known for its vibrant atmosphere marketed with the slogan "Meco, Sol e Rock N' Roll".

Super Bock Super Rock Changes Organisers After 29 Years (Illustration)

Throughout its history, the festival has welcomed numerous national and international artists, creating memorable moments such as the performance by Prince alongside Portuguese fado singer Ana Moura—a highlight between 2010 and 2014. In 2015, the festival moved to Parque das Nações in Lisbon before returning to its previous venue in Meco in 2019.

The change in organisers comes shortly after Música no Coração managed the 28th edition of the festival, marking its final chapter in a longstanding collaboration. The festival has been a staple of Portuguese culture, reportedly preparing for a fresh chapter under different leadership.

This year also saw the absence of another Super Bock sponsored event, the Super Bock em Stock festival, which for the first time in 16 years was not held. Traditionally set in Lisbon's vibrant streets and venues during the latter months of the year, this festival has seen various name changes, most recently reverting to Super Bock em Stock in 2018.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Portugal Draws with Croatia in Nations League

2024-11-20T12:58:54+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A seleção portuguesa empatou 1-1 com a Croácia no último jogo da fase de grupos . Portugal já tinha garantido a classificação após vencer a Polónia. João Félix marcou o golo para Portugal. Gvardiol empatou para a Croácia. Portugal terminou em primeiro no grupo e vai jogar os quartos de final contra Itália, Dinamarca ou Países Baixos.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

The Portuguese team drew 1-1 with Croatia in their final group-stage match. Portugal had already secured qualification after their victory over Poland. João Félix scored Portugal's goal, and Gvardiol equalised for Croatia. Portugal finished top of the group and will face Italy, Denmark, or the Netherlands in the quarter-finals.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who scored the goal for Portugal in their match against Croatia?

João Félix scored the goal for Portugal.

Question 2: What position did Portugal finish in their group?

Portugal finished in first place in their group.

Exercise: Vocabulary

seleção (f.) - selection

classificação (f.) - classification

marcar - to score

jogo (m.) - game

último - last

grupo (m.) - group

Read the full story

▌19/11/2024

The Portuguese National Team concluded their Nations League group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw against Croatia on Monday. The match took place after Portugal had already secured their advancement in the competition the previous Friday by defeating Poland at Porto's Estádio do Dragão.

Head Coach Roberto Martínez took the opportunity to make considerable changes to the starting lineup, with only four players retaining their spots from the last match. Despite a slow start, Portugal quickly asserted their dominance, requiring just 15 minutes to establish control by most accounts. However, it was not until the 33rd minute that the breakthrough came, courtesy of an inspired move.

Portugal Draws with Croatia in Nations League (Illustration)

A deep pass from Vitinha reached João Félix, who expertly controlled the ball between the central defenders and scored the opening goal. Despite this lead, the Portuguese side could not maintain their advantage through to the final whistle.

In the second half, Croatia persisted and found the equalizer in the 66th minute. Josko Gvardiol connected with a precise cross from Kristijan Jakic, leveling the score and ensuring the match concluded in a draw.

Portugal ended their group stage campaign as the leaders, accumulating 14 points, followed by Croatia with eight. Scotland came third with seven points, and Poland finished last with four. Looking ahead, Portugal will face one of Italy, Denmark, or the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, with the draw scheduled for this coming Friday morning.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Portugal Draws with Croatia in Nations League Group Stage Finale (SAPO.pt)

INEM Crisis Management Criticised in Portugal

2024-11-20T12:58:46+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O ministro da Saúde de Portugal enfrenta críticas pela gestão da greve do INEM. Luís Marques Mendes destacou problemas de "amadorismo" e sugeriu possíveis consequências políticas. Investigações podem ligar a greve a mortes, o que poderia levar à demissão da ministra Ana Paula Martins. Reformas são sugeridas para melhorar o setor da saúde.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

The Portuguese Health Minister is facing criticism over the handling of the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM) strike. Luís Marques Mendes pointed out issues of "amateurism" and suggested there could be political repercussions. Investigations might connect the strike to deaths, which could result in the resignation of Minister Ana Paula Martins. Reforms are suggested to improve the health sector.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is facing criticism for managing the INEM strike in Portugal?

The Minister of Health of Portugal is facing criticism.

Question 2: What might be the consequence if investigations link the strike to deaths?

The consequence might be the resignation of Minister Ana Paula Martins.

Exercise: Vocabulary

enfrentar - face

crítica (f.) - criticism

sugerir - suggest

consequência (f.) - consequence

investigação (f.) - investigation

demissão (f.) - resignation

Read the full story

▌18/11/2024

The recent handling of the INEM strike has put Portugal's Ministry of Health in a precarious position, leading to renewed debates about the effectiveness and professionalism within the health sector. Prominent social-democrat Luís Marques Mendes has voiced concerns about what he describes as "amateurism" in managing the crisis, indicating that this could result in severe political implications for Health Minister Ana Paula Martins.

According to reports, the Portuguese public prosecutor's ongoing investigations aim to determine if any legal infractions occurred, particularly concerning alleged connections between the strike and reported fatalities. Marques Mendes suggests that if such links are established, Minister Martins may be compelled to resign, having herself accepted accountability for the situation.

INEM Crisis Management Criticised in Portugal (Illustration)

The strike has highlighted significant administrative challenges within the INEM, with criticisms directed at its president, Sérgio Dias Janeiro, who, despite only having been in his role for four months and initially serving on an interim basis, has been unable to provide satisfactory explanations regarding failures in minimum service provision during the industrial action. This has led to speculation about his potential departure from the position.

Compounding these issues, Marques Mendes pointed out that Health Minister Martins had undermined the Secretary of State for Health by taking direct control over the INEM, further indicating weaknesses within the ministry's management structure. Additionally, the recent exit of former CEO of the SNS, Fernando Araújo, was labelled an "unnecessary mistake" by Mendes, who argued that he could have been a defensive asset for the minister.

The commentary highlights broader systemic challenges, suggesting a need for reform beyond the health sector to areas like justice and emergency services. Mendes proposed the creation of an independent committee to evaluate vulnerabilities and offer solutions, recommending this to both the Prime Minister and the President of the Republic as a meaningful step forward.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Beja and Faro on Orange Alert Due to Severe Weather

2024-11-16T11:04:42+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA) emitiu avisos de mau tempo para Portugal a partir de sexta-feira, 17 de novembro. As cidades de Beja e Faro estão em alerta laranja por causa de chuva forte e trovoadas . Também há avisos em outras áreas. As pessoas devem ter cuidado e seguir as recomendações das autoridades .

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued weather warnings for Portugal starting from Friday, 17th November. The cities of Beja and Faro are under an orange alert due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. Warnings are also in place in other areas. People should exercise caution and follow the recommendations of the authorities.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When will the severe weather alerts start in Portugal?

The severe weather alerts will start on Friday, November 17.

Question 2: What should people do in response to the severe weather warnings?

People should be careful and follow the recommendations of the authorities.

Exercise: Vocabulary

emitir - emit

aviso (m.) - warning

trovoada (f.) - thunderstorm

alerta (m.) - alert

recomendação (f.) - recommendation

autoridade (f.) - authority

Read the full story

▌15/11/2024

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has heightened its weather warnings, reflecting the adverse climatic conditions forecast from Friday to Sunday, 17 November. A cold depression, located north of Madeira, has induced significant weather changes over mainland Portugal.

Particularly affected are the southern and central regions, with Beja and Faro placed under orange alert for potential intense showers, thunder, and occasional hail until 18:00 on Friday. Post this period, these areas shift to a yellow alert until 21:00 on the same day. Concurrently, other districts such as Évora, Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Setúbal, and Lisbon will also experience yellow alerts at various intervals throughout the day.

Heavy precipitation rates are expected, potentially reaching 10 to 20 mm per hour, with isolated cases possibly exceeding 20 mm. As such, the IPMA warns of possible recurring bouts of severe weather impact in certain locations until Sunday morning.

Beja and Faro on Orange Alert Due to Severe Weather (Illustration)

The forecasted weather patterns are anticipated to predominantly affect the regions of Baixo Alentejo, Algarve, Setúbal, Lisbon, and Santarém. These areas might also encounter extreme wind phenomena, underlined by the potential for urban flooding, river flooding, and landslips due to altered river flows.

In anticipation, the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection has issued alerts about potential public safety hazards, such as contaminated potable water due to displacement of materials from rural fires, and road hazards caused by wind-borne debris and poorly secured structures.

Residents in the affected regions are advised to take precautionary measures, remain informed about the evolving conditions, and adhere to guidance provided by local authorities to mitigate weather-related risks.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

"Heavy Rainfall Forecast: IPMA Issues Alert from Thursday to Sunday" (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Showers, thunderstorms, and hail: Orange alert for Beja and Faro, with five other districts on yellow alert (SAPO.pt)

Bruno Fernandes Assists Passenger on EasyJet Flight

2024-11-13T16:46:22+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Bruno Fernandes, jogador de futebol e capitão do Manchester United, ajudou um passageiro durante um voo de Manchester para Lisboa. Quando alguém se sentiu mal, Fernandes agiu rapidamente para ajudar. Ele fez isso de maneira calma e sem querer atenção. Após o incidente , os passageiros agradeceram sua ajuda.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Bruno Fernandes, a football player and captain of Manchester United, assisted a fellow passenger during a flight from Manchester to Lisbon. When someone became unwell, Fernandes responded promptly to help. He did so calmly and without seeking attention. After the incident, the passengers expressed their gratitude for his help.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is Bruno Fernandes?

Bruno Fernandes is a football player and the captain of Manchester United.

Question 2: What did Bruno Fernandes do during the flight?

Bruno Fernandes helped a passenger who felt unwell during the flight.

Exercise: Vocabulary

capitão (m.) - captain

passageiro (m.) - passenger

voo (m.) - flight

sentir - to feel

calmo - calm

incidente (m.) - incident

Read the full story

▌13/11/2024

Bruno Fernandes, the captain of Manchester United and a prominent player for the Portuguese national team, became an unexpected hero during an EasyJet flight from Manchester to Lisbon. The flight, carrying passengers including Fernandes and his teammate Diogo Dalot, encountered an unsettling moment when a passenger at the back of the plane appeared unwell and in need of urgent assistance.

During the journey, while Fernandes was at the rear of the aircraft, a shout for help echoed through the cabin. According to fellow passenger Susanna Lawson, who was travelling to attend the Web Summit in Lisbon, Fernandes acted promptly upon noticing the man's distress. Without delay, he approached the man, helping him to sit down safely and ensuring he was attended to by the flight crew.

Bruno Fernandes Assists Passenger on EasyJet Flight (Illustration)

Lawson, who witnessed the incident, remarked that Fernandes’s intervention was both calm and discreet. She noted that he did not seek acknowledgment for his actions, and his demeanor remained composed throughout the situation. Her account describes Fernandes returning to his seat only after confirming the passenger’s well-being.

The quick-thinking actions of Fernandes have been described as a reflection of his character, with Lawson mentioning how approachable and humble he was. At the conclusion of the flight, many passengers, including Lawson, expressed their gratitude, with some seizing the opportunity to capture a memorable photo with the footballer.

The incident unfolded just as the Portuguese national team is gearing up for important matches, including a crucial game against Poland at Porto's Estádio do Dragão on Friday. This encounter forms part of their campaign in the UEFA Nations League, as they strive for qualification to the tournament's quarter-finals.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We offer various types of online Portuguese courses tailored to meet the needs of learners at different levels.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Bruno Fernandes Becomes 'Hero' on EasyJet Flight: "We Need Help" (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Bruno Fernandes: The Unlikely Hero on a Flight from Manchester to Portugal (SAPO.pt)

Lifeguards Assist Over 1,000 Swimmers in Madeira

2024-11-11T09:08:30+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Os salva-vidas na Madeira ajudaram 1.055 nadadores entre 1 de maio e 31 de outubro. Não houve mortes. A equipe tinha 37 salva-vidas em 11 praias. A maioria dos casos foram pequenos ferimentos . Jogens adultos, entre 18 e 30 anos, foram os mais afetados . A presença dos salva-vidas foi importante para a segurança .

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

Lifeguards in Madeira assisted 1,055 swimmers between 1st May and 31st October. There were no fatalities. The team consisted of 37 lifeguards across 11 beaches. Most incidents involved minor injuries. Young adults, aged between 18 and 30, were most affected. The presence of lifeguards was crucial for safety.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many lifeguards were working on the beaches in Madeira?

There were 37 lifeguards working on the beaches in Madeira.

Question 2: Who were the most affected by the incidents on the beaches?

Young adults, between 18 and 30 years old, were the most affected.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ajudar - help

ferimento (m.) - injury

entre - between

afetar - affect

presença (f.) - presence

segurança (f.) - safety

Read the full story

▌11/11/2024

In a comprehensive report from the Associação Madeirense para Socorro no Mar (SANAS), lifeguards successfully assisted 1,055 swimmers in Madeira during the recently concluded bathing season. This effort spanned from 1 May to 31 October and remarkably, no fatalities were reported throughout this period.

SANAS deployed a team of 37 lifeguards across 11 beaches and 13 surveillance posts within the region. Over the 184-day season, these lifeguards dealt with incidents ranging from minor injuries to more serious cases requiring medical attention.

Lifeguards Assist Over 1,000 Swimmers in Madeira (Illustration)

Among those assisted, 713 swimmers sustained minor injuries, while incidents in the water accounted for 415 of the occurrences. Notably, young adults aged 18 to 30 were the most affected, with 322 cases involving individuals in this age group.

The lifeguard team successfully performed two resuscitations and managed various trauma situations that necessitated hospital visits but fortunately did not result in any loss of life. Instances of drowning without loss of consciousness numbered 15, alongside 45 interventions due to exhaustion and 43 cases requiring support in surf zones.

The organisation emphasized the importance of their vigilant presence and response capabilities, which were instrumental in ensuring a safe environment for beachgoers in the archipelago this summer.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Lifeguards Rescued 1,055 Swimmers in Madeira This Beach Season (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Lifeguards Rescued 1,055 Swimmers in Madeira This Beach Season (Correio da Manhã)

PSP Operation in Lisbon Leads to 38 Arrests

2024-11-09T12:13:44+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

A Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) fez uma grande operação em Lisboa para melhorar a segurança. A operação ocorreu na área de Martim Moniz e resultou na detenção de 38 pessoas por vários crimes. As autoridades verificaram a legalidade de residentes e comércios e encontraram produtos falsificados . Esta ação faz parte da campanha "Portugal Sempre Seguro".

Listen to this text (00:29)

Translation

The Public Security Police (PSP) conducted a major operation in Lisbon to enhance safety. The operation took place in the Martim Moniz area and led to the arrest of 38 individuals for various crimes. Authorities checked the legality of residents and businesses and discovered counterfeit goods. This action is part of the "Portugal Always Safe" campaign.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did the PSP operation take place?

The operation took place in Martim Moniz, Lisbon.

Question 2: What was one of the outcomes of the operation?

The authorities found counterfeit products during the operation.

Exercise: Vocabulary

operação (f.) - operation

ocorrer - occurred

verificar - verify

legalidade (f.) - legality

produto (m.) - product

falsificar - counterfeit

Read the full story

▌09/11/2024

In a coordinated effort to enhance public safety and ensure compliance with territorial legalities, the Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) conducted a major operation in Lisbon's Santa Maria Maior parish, specifically targeting the Martim Moniz area. This operation was part of the "Portugal Always Safe" campaign and resulted in the arrest of 38 individuals over the past 24 hours.

The operation involved the collaboration of various governmental agencies, including the Authority of Economic and Food Safety (ASAE), and aimed at scrutinising commercial establishments and individuals. This initiative sought to address illegal activities and ensure compliance with immigration laws. According to the authorities, actions were taken to verify the legality of residents and the operating credentials of local businesses.

Among those apprehended, offences ranged from driving under the influence, operating a vehicle without a legal license, to more severe charges such as drug trafficking and domestic violence. Furthermore, arrests were executed based on outstanding warrants, and there were instances of resistance to police officers and other undisclosed infractions.

PSP Operation in Lisbon Leads to 38 Arrests (Illustration)

The operation also saw the involvement of the Unidade Especial de Polícia and intervention teams, underscoring the scale and importance of this oversight activity. Authorities revealed that some individuals were brought in for identification purposes, although no immediate arrests were made during these checks.

In a related move, ASAE inspectors discovered and confiscated counterfeit goods within the commercial area, primarily focusing on high-value items such as bags emulating well-known brands. While this seizure highlights ongoing issues with illegal trade, there is no indication that the items were linked to the individuals transported for questioning.

This intervention is one of several operations undertaken to combat illegal immigration and other criminal activities, as directed by governmental authorities to reinforce policing measures across the nation. Officials emphasize that these operations are routine, aiming to uphold the law without relying on specific allegations or triggers.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

PSP Arrests 38 in 24 Hours, Including During Major Operation in Martim Moniz (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Major Police Operation in Lisbon's Martim Moniz Area (Expresso.pt)
Major Police Operation in Lisbon's Martim Moniz Area (SAPO.pt)
38 Arrested in PSP Operation in Martim Moniz and Other Areas of Lisbon (Correio da Manhã)

Sporting Thrashes Manchester City in Champions League Round

2024-11-06T10:34:27+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Sporting Lisboa ganhou 4-1 contra o Manchester City na Liga dos Campeões. Viktor Gyökeres marcou três gols na vitória. Este jogo foi uma despedida especial para o treinador Rúben Amorim. Sporting agora está empatado com AS Monaco na classificação . A vitória trouxe muita felicidade aos torcedores no Estádio José Alvalade.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

Sporting Lisbon won 4-1 against Manchester City in the Champions League. Viktor Gyökeres scored three goals in the victory. This match was a special farewell for manager Rúben Amorim. Sporting is now level on points with AS Monaco in the standings. The victory brought great joy to the fans at the José Alvalade Stadium.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who scored three goals for Sporting Lisboa in their match against Manchester City?

Viktor Gyökeres scored three goals.

Question 2: What was the significance of the game for the coach Rúben Amorim?

It was a special farewell for the coach.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ganhar - win

despedida (f.) - farewell

treinador (m.) - coach

empatar - draw

classificação (f.) - ranking

torcedor (m.) - supporter

Read the full story

▌06/11/2024

In an unexpected turn of events, Sporting Lisbon delivered a resounding 4-1 victory over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League, marking a memorable farewell to their coach, Rúben Amorim, at the Estádio José Alvalade. This triumph positions Sporting tied with AS Monaco for second place in the group, both following Liverpool, the current leader.

The match began dramatically with Manchester City's Phil Foden silencing the home fans early by scoring in the fourth minute. Despite the initial setback, Sporting's response was nothing short of spectacular. Viktor Gyökeres equalised in the 38th minute, setting off jubilation among the Sporting supporters.

The second half mirrored a dramatic shift in momentum. Maxi Araújo quickly scored at the start (46') with an assist from Pedro Gonçalves, flipping the score in Sporting's favour. Gyökeres then doubled his tally with a penalty at the 48th minute, subduing the early threat from City.

Sporting Thrashes Manchester City in Champions League Round (Illustration)

Sporting's goalkeeper, Franco Israel, played a crucial role by stopping several key attempts from City's lineup, including misses from notorious strikers such as Erling Haaland, whose penalty shot struck the crossbar.

The climax came in the 81st minute with Gyökeres completing his hat-trick, following another awarded penalty, firmly sealing the 4-1 victory for the home team. The win is a stellar send-off for Amorim, who is expected to join Manchester United soon after his last game with Sporting against SC Braga.

This win sends a strong message across Europe's football landscape, as Sporting continues to defy expectations in the Champions League. Meanwhile, Manchester City faces pressing concerns, finding themselves now sixth in the standings after a third consecutive defeat.

The match drew special media attention with the presence of Noel Gallagher, the well-known Oasis guitarist and avid Manchester City fan, who witnessed the startling performance live as a commentator for TNT Sports. The victory marks a poignant chapter in Sporting's European journey, showcasing the tactical prowess and team spirit instilled by Amorim throughout his tenure.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Sporting Defeats Manchester City in Amorim's Farewell at Alvalade (SAPO.pt)
Comeback with Amor(im): Sporting Dismisses Manchester City in Champions League (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Oasis' Noel Gallagher witnessed his Manchester City get thrashed by Sporting at Estádio de Alvalade. (Expresso.pt)

Evacuation in Funchal After Severe Weather Warning

2024-11-04T09:14:24+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Em Funchal, duas pessoas precisaram sair de uma casa em perigo por causa de chuva forte . A Proteção Civil ajudou a encontrar um lugar seguro para elas. O telhado da casa estava com problemas. O tempo estava com aviso laranja, depois mudou para amarelo. Mais investigações vão acontecer na segunda-feira.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

In Funchal, two individuals had to evacuate a house at risk due to heavy rain. The Civil Protection Agency assisted in finding them a safe place. The house's roof was compromised. The weather alert was initially at orange, then downgraded to yellow. Further investigations are set to take place on Monday.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who helped the people find a safe place in Funchal?

The Civil Protection helped the people find a safe place.

Question 2: What was the problem with the house in Funchal?

The roof of the house had problems.

Exercise: Vocabulary

precisar - to need

perigo (m.) - danger

forte - strong

telhado (m.) - roof

aviso (m.) - warning

investigação (f.) - investigation

Read the full story

▌04/11/2024

In response to severe weather conditions in the Madeira region, two residents were evacuated from a deteriorated house in Funchal. The decision was made by the local Municipal Civil Protection Service as a precaution to ensure the safety of the occupants.

Bruno Pereira, the Funchal councillor responsible for civil protection, revealed that the house in Santa Maria Maior had already shown signs of wear. The intense rain exacerbated these issues, leading to concerning displacements in the roof structure overnight.

Evacuation in Funchal After Severe Weather Warning (Illustration)

Given the lack of immediate intervention options on a Sunday, the Funchal authorities activated the Social Emergency Line to arrange temporary accommodation for the residents through the Social Security Services. A full assessment of the situation is scheduled for Monday to decide further actions.

These preventive measures were taken amidst an "orange" weather warning issued by the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA). The warning, indicating potential heavy rainfall, was initially in effect for the Sunday morning before being downgraded to "yellow" by noon.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Two People Rescued from Run-Down Home in Funchal Due to Severe Weather (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Two People Rescued from Derelict House in Funchal Following Severe Weather (Correio da Manhã)

Amadora-Sintra Hospital Faces Surgical Department Exodus

2024-11-02T11:17:57+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Hospital Amadora-Sintra em Portugal enfrenta problemas após a saída do diretor de Cirurgia Geral e 10 cirurgiões . Isto aconteceu pela volta de dois médicos que falaram sobre maus-tratos antes. Há preocupação com o atendimento aos pacientes e dificuldades na gestão . Medidas urgentes são necessárias para resolver a crise .

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

The Amadora-Sintra Hospital in Portugal is experiencing issues after the departure of the General Surgery Director and 10 surgeons. This situation arose following the return of two doctors who had previously reported mistreatment. There is concern about patient care and management difficulties. Urgent measures are needed to address the crisis.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why did problems occur at Amadora-Sintra Hospital?

Problems occurred after the director of General Surgery and 10 surgeons left the hospital.

Question 2: What is needed to solve the crisis at the hospital?

Urgent measures are needed to resolve the crisis.

Exercise: Vocabulary

enfrentar - confront

diretor (m.) - director

cirurgião (m.) - surgeons

maus-tratos (m.) - mistreatment

gestão (f.) - management

crise (f.) - crisis

Read the full story

▌01/11/2024

The Amadora-Sintra Hospital in Portugal is facing a significant challenge following the resignation of its General Surgery Department director, Paulo Mira, and the departure of ten surgeons. The decision to resign was reportedly triggered by the impending return of two physicians who had previously alleged malpractice within the department.

The Unidade Local de Saúde (ULS) Amadora/Sintra confirmed the departure of its medical staff and acknowledged the potential strain on its surgical services, indicating that measures are being taken to address the crisis. ULS anticipates disruptions and has stated it will notify relevant authorities, including the national emergency medical service, should urgent action be required.

Nuno Rodrigues, Secretary-General of the Independent Doctors' Union (SIM), expressed grave concern over the impact on patient care, highlighting the large population reliant on the hospital for surgical services. He warned that patients might need to be redirected to other already overburdened hospitals.

Amadora-Sintra Hospital Faces Surgical Department Exodus (Illustration)

The director, according to Rodrigues, had been committed to modernizing and enhancing the service but found himself unable to resolve the current conflict, a situation exacerbated by what he describes as the hospital administration's inadequate response.

Joana Bordalo e Sá, president of the National Federation of Doctors (FNAM), criticised the administration's failure to fulfil promises to resolve the issues, consequently compromising patient care in the region. She cited poor working conditions, lack of resources, and insufficient management capacity as reasons for the director's resignation.

The development has also concerned Paulo Simões, president of the Southern Regional Council of the Order of Doctors, who lamented the loss of leadership and personnel. Following an October visit to the hospital, he observed that although functional units had been successfully established, the department was left in turmoil with the directors' departure.

The situation poses significant challenges to the continuation of surgical care, underlining the need for swift and effective solutions to minimize impact on healthcare delivery in the area.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Head of Surgery at Amadora/Sintra Resigns Along with 10 Surgeons (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Head of Surgery at Amadora-Sintra Resigns, Followed by Departure of 10 Surgeons (SIC Notícias)

Portuguese Schools Face Severe Teacher Shortage by 2031

2024-10-30T15:58:49+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

As escolas em Portugal terão falta de professores até 2031. Aposentadorias e poucos novos professores causam esse problema. Todas as disciplinas, exceto Educação Física, serão afetadas. Precisamos mais programas para formar professores e melhorar as condições de trabalho. Algumas áreas, como Lisboa, já enfrentam dificuldades.

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

Schools in Portugal will experience a shortage of teachers until 2031. This issue is caused by retirements and the small number of new teachers entering the profession. All subjects, except Physical Education, will be affected. There is a need for more programmes to train teachers and enhance working conditions. Some areas, like Lisbon, are already facing difficulties.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What are the main reasons for the teacher shortage in Portuguese schools?

The main reasons are retirements and a low number of new teachers entering the profession.

Question 2: Which subject is not expected to be affected by the teacher shortage?

Physical Education is not expected to be affected by the teacher shortage.

Exercise: Vocabulary

falta (f.) - lack

aposentadoria (f.) - retirement

exceto - except

disciplina (f.) - subject

formar - to train

enfrentar - to face

Read the full story

▌29/10/2024

Portuguese schools are projected to face a severe shortage of teachers across nearly all subjects by the year 2031, as revealed by a recent study conducted by the Education Department of the Fundação Belmiro de Azevedo. The ongoing increase in teacher retirements, alongside insufficient numbers of new graduates entering the profession, are core reasons behind this looming issue.

According to the study titled "Reservas de Professores sob a Lupa: Antevisão de Professores Necessários e Disponíveis", led by researchers including Isabel Flores, the situation is set to become a critical structural problem, exacerbating the current challenges faced by educational institutions. Presently, issues arise primarily when replacing absent teachers; however, by 2031, it is anticipated that the shortage will necessitate around 8,700 teachers to fill permanent positions, with a further 15,700 absent teachers needing temporary replacements.

The study, which was made available to Portuguese news agency Lusa, highlights that if the educational landscape remains unchanged, schools from the 7th to 12th grades will be particularly affected, except for Physical Education. The shortage is expected to intensify within two years for certain disciplines, especially in Economics, Geography, Informatics, Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry.

Current data reveals that while preschool and the initial cycles experience less strain, the ongoing issues begin to significantly affect subjects from the 7th grade onwards. Regional disparities are also evident, with areas like the Algarve and Lisbon metropolitan region already struggling more than others to meet teaching demands.

Portuguese Schools Face Severe Teacher Shortage by 2031 (Illustration)

Recommendations put forth by Edulog include increasing the number of spots in teacher training programs, with a focus on more critical subjects, and providing financial incentives and improved working conditions to attract and retain teachers. However, these measures may take several years to show substantial effects, according to the study.

The findings, however, do not take into account measures by the current government, such as the "Mais Aulas, Mais Sucesso" plan, intended to temporarily reduce classroom shortages. Former Education Minister David Justino pointed out that while such efforts may have immediate benefits, they do not address the underlying structural issues.

Comparative analyses with other countries such as Lithuania, Germany, and the UK reveal that teacher shortages are a common struggle internationally, though successful redistribution efforts have been noted where relocation costs for teachers are subsidized.

As these findings come to light, the emphasis on developing a national strategy for teacher recruitment is increasingly seen as necessary to mitigate the issue effectively.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Schools Will Face Teacher Shortages in Nearly All Subjects by 2031 (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Schools Will Face Teacher Shortages in Almost All Subjects by 2031 (SIC Notícias)
If nothing changes, schools will face a teacher shortage in almost every subject within six years. (SAPO.pt)
Without further measures, in six years there will be a shortage of qualified teachers for almost all subjects. (Expresso.pt)

16th Century Portuguese Cannons Retrieved from Sea

2024-10-28T10:51:56+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Dois canhões de bronze do século 16 foram retirados do mar perto de Esposende. Eles são raros e pesam muito. Usaram balões de ar para trazê-los à superfície . Os canhões agora serão limpos e conservados . Este trabalho ajuda a entender mais sobre a história marítima de Portugal.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Two 16th-century bronze cannons have been retrieved from the sea near Esposende. They are rare and very heavy. Air balloons were used to bring them to the surface. The cannons will now be cleaned and preserved. This work aids in enhancing the understanding of Portugal's maritime history.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What were used to bring the cannons to the surface?

Air balloons were used to bring the cannons to the surface.

Question 2: Where were the cannons found?

The cannons were found in the sea near Esposende.

Exercise: Vocabulary

canhão (m.) - cannon

bronze (m.) - bronze

superfície (f.) - surface

conservar - preserve

história (f.) - history

marítimo - maritime

Read the full story

▌28/10/2024

In a remarkable recovery operation, two bronze cannons from a 16th-century Portuguese caravel were successfully retrieved from the sea off the coast of Esposende. This extraction marks a significant event, as the vessel’s remnants were discovered only a decade ago, drawing interest from archaeologists and historians both locally and internationally.

The cannons, believed to weigh between 500 to 700 kilograms and each measuring nearly three meters in length, were among the few surviving specimens of their kind. Divers utilised advanced techniques, including air balloons, to carefully lift them from their watery grave and transport them to land. These efforts underscore the complexity and challenges often involved in underwater archaeological excavations.

16th Century Portuguese Cannons Retrieved from Sea (Illustration)

Following their retrieval, the cannons are set to undergo extensive cleaning and conservation treatments, which experts estimate could take up to two years. This procedure is essential for preserving the cannons, given their extended submersion in a corrosive saltwater environment.

The shipwreck, identified as a Portuguese caravel, was likely used to transport both goods and passengers. Notably, the bronze cannons feature an octagonal body, a rare design that makes them particularly significant; only three other cannons of this type are known to exist in Portugal. In addition to the bronze pieces, four other iron cannons remain beneath the sea, hinting at the potential for future discoveries.

This successful recovery operation not only sheds light on Portugal's rich maritime heritage but also presents exciting opportunities for further archaeological research and public display, contributing to our understanding of historical seafaring and trade practices.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Bronze Cannons from a 16th-Century Portuguese Caravel Recovered from the Sea (Expresso.pt)
Bronze cannons from a 16th-century Portuguese caravel retrieved from the sea. (SIC Notícias)

Lisbon Unrest: Arrests and Injuries Amidst Protests

2024-10-26T08:03:51+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Houve distúrbios em Lisboa após a morte de Odair Moniz por um policial . 21 pessoas foram presas e muitos feridos ocorreram . Carros e ônibus foram incendiados . A polícia investiga o caso e planeja manifestações pacíficas. A comunidade pede transparência e os policiais pedem melhores condições de trabalho.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

There were disturbances in Lisbon following the death of Odair Moniz at the hands of a police officer. Twenty-one people were arrested, and many were injured. Cars and buses were set on fire. The police are investigating the incident and planning peaceful demonstrations. The community is calling for transparency, while the police officers are demanding better working conditions.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who was Odair Moniz and what happened to him?

Odair Moniz was a person who died after being shot by a police officer.

Question 2: What does the community request following the unrest?

The community is asking for transparency.

Exercise: Vocabulary

distúrbio (m.) - disturbance

policial (m.) - policeman

prender - arrest

ocorrer - occur

incendiar - set on fire

transparência (f.) - transparency

Read the full story

▌26/10/2024

The recent disturbances in the Greater Lisbon area have resulted in significant damage and numerous arrests. According to the Police of Public Security (PSP), a total of 123 incidents have been recorded since October 21st, leading to the detention of 21 individuals. These events unfolded after the controversial police shooting of Odair Moniz, a Cape Verdean national, which triggered widespread protests.

The clashes have left two police officers injured due to stone-throwing, while five civilians suffered injuries from stabbings and burns. Moreover, significant material damage was reported, with police vehicles, buses, and civilian cars being set on fire. A police station also faced an attack with pyrotechnic devices.

The PSP emphasized their commitment to facilitating two planned demonstrations in Lisbon, balancing the objectives of the event organizers with public safety. However, they made it clear that they would not tolerate any criminal activity designed to undermine state authority or community safety.

The incidents have sparked a response from the ASPP/PSP (Association of Police Professionals), which condemned what it sees as opportunistic and alarmist coverage by the media and political entities. They urged the public and media to wait for the outcomes of ongoing investigations before jumping to conclusions or sensationalizing the events.

Lisbon Unrest: Arrests and Injuries Amidst Protests (Illustration)

Criticism from the ASPP/PSP also highlights systemic issues within the police force, pointing to inadequate investment in community policing, insufficient staffing, and poor working conditions as factors that complicate their duties. They reiterated a long-standing appeal for better equipment and resources to aid police operations.

In response to the events, the Minister of Internal Administration has announced that both the PSP and Internal Administration Inspectors are conducting thorough inquiries. The agent involved in the shooting has been formally charged, and the investigation seeks to clarify the circumstances surrounding Moniz's death.

Amid the chaos, potential changes in leadership roles within the Portuguese intelligence and internal security services have been put on hold. It is speculated that the sensitivity of the situation has led to a cautious approach to these decisions, as described by political insiders.

These developments continue to unfold, with community leaders and activists calling for transparency and accountability, while local authorities work to restore order and address community grievances.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

123 Incidents, 21 Arrested, 7 Injured, and Numerous Properties Destroyed: A Summary of the PSP's Report on the Disorder in Greater Lisbon (Correio da Manhã)
Lisbon Unrest: PSP Union Criticizes "Opportunism, Noise, Radicalism, and Populism" (SIC Notícias)
ASPP/PSP Criticizes the Political and Media Exploitation of the Riots (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Unrest May Sideline Candidates for Security Leadership Positions (Visão)

Portugal to Turn Clocks Back This Sunday

2024-10-23T07:32:30+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Em 29 de outubro, Portugal muda a hora para o horário de inverno. Às 2:00, Portugal continental e Madeira atrasam o relógio para 1:00. Nos Açores, à 1:00, o relógio muda para meia-noite. Esta mudança acontece todos os anos e é uma regra da União Europeia.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

On the 29th of October, Portugal adjusts to winter time. At 2:00 am, mainland Portugal and Madeira set the clocks back to 1:00 am. In the Azores, at 1:00 am, the clock is set back to midnight. This change occurs every year and is a rule of the European Union.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When will Portugal change the clocks for winter time?

On October 29th.

Question 2: What happens to the clocks in the Azores at 1:00 on October 29th?

The clocks change to midnight.

Exercise: Vocabulary

mudar - change

horário (m.) - schedule

atrasar - delay

relógio (m.) - clock

acontecer - happen

regra (f.) - rule

Read the full story

▌21/10/2024

In the early hours of this Sunday, 27th October, residents of Portugal, including those in the mainland and the Autonomous Regions of Madeira and Azores, will be adjusting their clocks. At 2 a.m., clocks in mainland Portugal and Madeira are to be set back by one hour, reverting to 1 a.m., in line with the seasonal transition into wintertime.

For the Azores, the time change will occur slightly earlier. At 1 a.m. local time on Sunday, clocks are to be moved back to midnight. This adjustment marks the beginning of winter hours in Portugal.

Portugal to Turn Clocks Back This Sunday (Illustration)

This system of adjusting the clock is governed by a European Union directive from the year 2000. According to this directive, member states adhere to a biannual clock change, setting clocks forward on the last Sunday of March and back on the last Sunday of October, signalling the start and end of daylight saving time.

The next scheduled adjustment will shift the country back into summer hours on 30th March 2025. These changes align Portugal with many European countries that observe similar time adjustments under the unified EU guidelines.

This routine clock change continues to be a topic of debate within the EU, with some countries questioning the necessity and benefits of the biannual adjustment, although no changes to the current policy have been adopted.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Don't Forget! Set Your Clocks Back an Hour This Sunday Morning (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Clocks Set Back One Hour on Sunday Morning (SAPO.pt)
Clocks Go Back One Hour on Sunday (SIC Notícias)

Laura Carreira Wins at London Film Festival

2024-10-21T08:27:23+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Laura Carreira, cineasta portuguesa, ganhou um prêmio no London Film Festival. Seu primeiro filme, "On Falling", mostra uma mulher imigrante enfrentando dificuldades . O filme foi uma co-produção entre Portugal e Reino Unido. Carreira estuda temas como pobreza e trabalho no cinema, destacando seu talento internacionalmente.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

Portuguese filmmaker Laura Carreira won an award at the London Film Festival. Her debut film, "On Falling", depicts an immigrant woman facing challenges. The film was a co-production between Portugal and the United Kingdom. Carreira explores themes such as poverty and work in cinema, highlighting her talent on an international scale.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is the title of Laura Carreira's first film?

The title of Laura Carreira's first film is 'On Falling'.

Question 2: What themes does Laura Carreira study in her films?

Laura Carreira studies themes like poverty and work in her films.

Exercise: Vocabulary

cineasta(f.) - filmmaker

imigrante(f.) - immigrant

co-produção(f.) - co-production

pobreza(f.) - poverty

dificuldade(f.) - difficulties

destacar - highlighting

Read the full story

▌21/10/2024

Portuguese filmmaker Laura Carreira has triumphed at the London Film Festival, taking home the debut feature award for her film "On Falling". The organisers of the festival announced that Carreira's work was chosen by the jury for its "layered depiction of a world driven by corporate profit," as illustrated through the poignant story of an isolated immigrant woman.

"On Falling" marks Laura Carreira's first feature-length film, following her direction of the short films "Red Hill" in 2018 and "The Shift" in 2020. The film previously garnered attention at the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain, where it shared the Silver Shell for best direction.

The film's narrative centres on Aurora, a young Portuguese woman living in Scotland. Working in a warehouse, she faces monthly financial struggles and social isolation while cohabitating with other immigrants. This tale of precarious work and social challenges was brought to life by actress Joana Santos.

Laura Carreira Wins at London Film Festival (Illustration)

"On Falling" is a co-production between Portugal's BRO Cinema and the UK's Sixteen Films, co-founded by renowned filmmaker Ken Loach. The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.

Laura Carreira hails from Porto and moved to Scotland in 2012 amid Portugal's economic crisis to study film. She has since continued her career there, exploring themes she believes cinema often overlooks, such as poverty, work, and the erosion of rights, always through the lens of fiction.

The 68th edition of the London Film Festival, which began on 9th October and concluded today, also featured other notable debuts. These included "Hanami" by Denise Fernandes, as well as works like "Grand Tour" by Miguel Gomes and "Fogo do Vento" by Marta Mateus.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Laura Carreira Wins Award at London Film Festival with 'On Falling' (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Laura Carreira Wins Award at the London Film Festival with "On Falling" (SAPO.pt)

Portugal Sees Decrease in Newborn Numbers in 2023

2024-10-19T07:14:02+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Em 2023, Portugal viu menos nascimentos nos primeiros nove meses comparado a 2022. No Programa Nacional de Rastreio Neonatal , 63.237 bebês foram testados, menos do que no ano anterior. Lisboa, Porto, Setúbal e Braga tiveram mais testes. O "teste do pezinho" ajuda a detectar doenças raras em recém-nascidos , sendo essencial para a saúde infantil.

Listen to this text (00:31)

Translation

In 2023, Portugal experienced fewer births in the first nine months compared to 2022. In the National Newborn Screening Programme, 63,237 babies were tested, fewer than in the previous year. Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal, and Braga conducted the most tests. The "heel prick test" helps detect rare diseases in newborns and is essential for child health.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is the purpose of the 'teste do pezinho' in Portugal?

The 'teste do pezinho' helps to detect rare diseases in newborns.

Question 2: Which cities in Portugal had more newborn tests in 2023?

Lisboa, Porto, Setúbal, and Braga had more newborn tests.

Exercise: Vocabulary

nascimento(m.) - birth

rastreio(m.) - screening

neonatal - neonatal

detectar - detect

doença(f.) - disease

recém-nascido(m.) - newborn

Read the full story

▌17/10/2024

According to recent data from the Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Portugal has experienced a decline in the number of newborns during the first nine months of 2023, marking a downward shift in the birth rate compared to the same period in 2022. This year, the National Neonatal Screening Programme (PNRN) tested 63,237 newborns, which is 430 fewer than the 63,667 tested in the corresponding period last year.

The programme's data highlights that the months with the highest number of screenings were January, July, and August, while the districts with the most newborns tested included Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal, and Braga. Meanwhile, areas such as Beja, Bragança, Guarda, and Vila Real recorded the lowest numbers, each having fewer than a hundred newborns screened monthly.

This year's figures mark a reversal from the previous upward trend in birth numbers seen from 2021 to 2023. After dropping to a record low of 79,217 in 2021, the number of births in Portugal increased to 83,436 in 2022 and reached 85,764 in 2023. This recent decline suggests a changing demographic pattern that may merit further investigation.

Portugal Sees Decrease in Newborn Numbers in 2023 (Illustration)

The "teste do pezinho" or heel prick test, used within the PNRN, continues to play a critical role in early diagnosis of rare diseases in infants. In 2023, out of the 85,764 babies examined, 150 cases of rare diseases were detected. These included hereditary metabolic disorders, congenital hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, and spinal muscular atrophy.

Since its inception in 1979, the PNRN has been instrumental in identifying rare conditions in newborns, having screened over 4.2 million babies. Through this programme, early diagnoses have enabled immediate treatment, preventing severe consequences such as intellectual disability and other irreversible conditions.

The screening test is widely adopted across Portugal, with a current coverage rate of 99.5%. Newborns typically undergo the test by the third day after birth, which involves collecting blood from the child's heel. Early intervention following these screenings underscores the programme's effectiveness in child health management.

Info: 'Portuguese Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Portuguese', a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese efficiently. We offer various types of online Portuguese courses designed to help individuals learn Portuguese online at their own pace and convenience.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Birth Rate in Portugal Declines During First Nine Months of the Year (Expresso.pt)
Portugal Sees a Decrease of 430 Newborns in the First Nine Months of the Year Compared to 2023 (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Fewer Babies Born in the First Nine Months of the Year Compared to 2023 (SAPO.pt)
Fewer Babies Were Born in the First Nine Months of This Year Compared to 2023 (SIC Notícias)

Benfica Faces Potential Suspension Over Corruption Allegations

2024-10-16T09:51:39+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Benfica, um clube de futebol famoso, enfrenta acusações de corrupção . As acusações estão relacionadas com o ex-presidente, Luís Filipe Vieira, e envolvem possíveis manipulações de resultados de jogos entre 2016 e 2019. Outros clubes, como Sporting e FC Porto, estão atentos ao caso. O atual presidente Rui Costa está colaborando na investigação .

Listen to this text (00:29)

Translation

Benfica, a renowned football club, is facing allegations of corruption. These accusations are connected to the former president, Luís Filipe Vieira, and involve potential match-fixing between 2016 and 2019. Other clubs, such as Sporting and FC Porto, are closely monitoring the situation. The current president, Rui Costa, is cooperating with the investigation.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is the current president of Benfica helping with the investigation?

Rui Costa is the current president of Benfica helping with the investigation.

Question 2: What other clubs are mentioned as paying attention to the case?

Sporting and FC Porto are the clubs mentioned as paying attention to the case.

Exercise: Vocabulary

acusação (f.) - accusation

corrupção (f.) - corruption

manipulação (f.) - manipulation

resultado (m.) - result

investigação (f.) - investigation

enfrentar - face

Read the full story

▌16/10/2024

Portuguese football giant, Benfica, is currently embroiled in controversy, facing allegations of corruption that could lead to suspension from national competitions for a period ranging from six months to three years. These accusations centre around the former club president, Luís Filipe Vieira, who is implicated in what is being termed as the "case of the emails."

The Public Prosecutor’s Office has accused Benfica's sports management company, known as SAD, along with former legal advisor Paulo Gonçalves, of orchestrating a corrupt scheme intended to manipulate sporting results. This accusation alleges that between 2016 and 2019, Benfica engaged in activities aimed at influencing matches against the Vitória Futebol Clube, commonly referred to as Vitória Setúbal, by engaging in dubious financial dealings and player loans. This was allegedly done to sway results in Benfica’s favour, compromising the integrity of the matches.

According to the case details, these allegations also involve Vitória Setúbal's former president, Fernando Oliveira, and former sports director, Paulo Grencho. The claim is that together with Vieira, they conducted a series of "simulated contracts" to achieve these illicit objectives, undermining the principles of fair competition.

Benfica Faces Potential Suspension Over Corruption Allegations (Illustration)

The current Benfica president, Rui Costa, and former financial administrator, Domingos Soares de Oliveira, have been cleared of wrongdoing and will serve as witnesses in the prosecution. Despite their signatures appearing on some contracts in question, they are not facing charges.

Reaction from rivals has been swift. Sporting Clube de Portugal, one of Benfica's main competitors, has expressed a firm stance on the issue, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of Portuguese sports. The club has announced that it will monitor the proceedings closely and supports rigorous action against any wrongdoing.

FC Porto, another rival, has already taken legal steps by joining the case as an assistant, indicating their interest in seeking a potential compensation depending on the proceedings' outcome.

This investigation, led by the Polícia Judiciária, scrutinizes Benfica's business affairs during the specified period, notably involving player transfers and game performances by opponent teams. The case continues to unfold, capturing the attention of the sporting world as authorities dig deeper into these serious allegations.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Benfica Faces Potential League Suspension: Club and Luís Filipe Vieira Accused of Sports Corruption (Correio da Manhã)
Corruption 'Haunts' Benfica: From Suspensions to Millions, Here's What We Know (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Email Scandal: Benfica FC and Luís Filipe Vieira Charged with Corruption and Fraud (Visão)
Sporting Demands Accountability and Punishment in Benfica Email Scandal (SIC Notícias)

Rare Comet Visible in Portugal's Evening Sky

2024-10-15T05:04:11+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

No domingo passado, em Portugal, foi possível ver o cometa C/2023 A3. Este cometa foi descoberto em janeiro de 2023 e foi visível a olho nu após o pôr do sol. As pessoas deveriam olhar para o oeste por volta das 19:35, mas só até as 20:00. Foi uma chance rara de observação astronômica .

Listen to this text (00:26)

Translation

Last Sunday, in Portugal, it was possible to see comet C/2023 A3. This comet was discovered in January 2023 and was visible to the naked eye after sunset. People were advised to look westwards around 7:35 p.m., but only until 8:00 p.m. It was a rare astronomical observation opportunity.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When was the comet C/2023 A3 discovered?

The comet C/2023 A3 was discovered in January 2023.

Question 2: At what time should people in Portugal have looked to see the comet?

People should have looked to the west around 19:35.

Exercise: Vocabulary

cometa (m.) - comet

descobrir - discover

visível - visible

oeste (m.) - west

raro - rare

astronômico - astronomical

Read the full story

▌14/10/2024

This past Sunday, sky enthusiasts in Portugal were treated to a celestial spectacle as the comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS made its appearance in the post-sunset sky. Identified in January 2023 via telescopes from the Tsuchinshan Observatory in China and the ATLAS telescope in South Africa, this comet was visible to the naked eye under the right conditions.

Astrophysicist Nuno Peixinho indicated that the optimal time to observe the comet was approximately 40 minutes after sunset, specifically around 19:35. Interested observers were advised to look towards the west from areas with minimal light pollution. However, the viewing window was brief, as by 20:00 the comet was expected to be significantly lower on the horizon.

Rare Comet Visible in Portugal's Evening Sky (Illustration)

The comet's close proximity to the extremely bright planet Venus might have led to confusion, as Venus was visible to the left of the comet. At the time of its appearance, the comet was about 71 million kilometers from Earth and just over 82 million kilometers from the Sun, significantly closer than the average Earth-Sun distance of roughly 150 million kilometers.

The local Observatory Geophysical and Astronomical of the University of Coimbra organized a guided observation session from 19:20 to 20:00 to assist those eager to spot this rare event. For those who missed Sunday's opportunity, Peixinho noted that the comet might still be visible over the next week, though possibly only with a telescope as it dims progressively while moving away from Earth and the Sun.

This astronomical visitor, originating from the vast Oort Cloud which houses numerous icy celestial bodies, is not expected to return to Earth's vicinity for hundreds of thousands of years. This marks a truly rare viewing opportunity, as the last time this comet orbited near Earth dates back to the era of the Neanderthals, and its path could potentially be altered by gravitational influences from other planets or stars within our Solar System.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Keep an Eye on the Sky at Dusk: You Might Spot a Comet with the Naked Eye (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Images of the "Comet of the Century" Passing Over Portugal (SAPO.pt)
Images of the "Comet of the Century" Passing Through Portugal (SIC Notícias)
Did You See It? 80,000-Year-Orbit Comet Streaks Across the Skies of Portugal (Correio da Manhã)

Portugal Sets Record with Largest Programming Class

2024-10-13T15:21:10+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Portugal fez um recorde mundial com a "maior aula de programação do mundo". Cerca de 2.000 pessoas, de 12 a 66 anos, participaram . O evento foi sobre Programação Orientada a Objetos, Python e Inteligência Artificial. Organizado pelo Instituto Superior Técnico e Magma Studios, destacou o potencial tecnológico de Portugal.

Listen to this text (00:28)

Translation

Portugal set a world record with the "largest programming class in the world." Approximately 2,000 people, aged 12 to 66, participated. The event focused on Object-Oriented Programming, Python, and Artificial Intelligence. Organised by Instituto Superior Técnico and Magma Studios, it showcased Portugal's technological potential.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many people participated in the programming class?

About 2,000 people participated.

Question 2: What topics were covered during the event?

The topics covered were Object-Oriented Programming, Python, and Artificial Intelligence.

Exercise: Vocabulary

recorde (m.) - record

programação (f.) - programming

participar - participate

evento (m.) - event

potencial (m.) - potential

destacar - highlighted

Read the full story

▌13/10/2024

In a significant achievement for Portugal, the country has secured a place in the Guinness World Records by hosting the "world's largest programming class," which took place on Saturday. This landmark event saw participation from around 2,000 individuals spanning a wide age range from 12 to 66 years old.

The record-setting class was organised by the Instituto Superior Técnico and Magma Studios, and it aimed to assert Portugal's growing reputation as a technology hub on the international stage. The session covered three main topics: Algorithmics and Object-Oriented Programming, development in the popular Python programming language, and applications of Artificial Intelligence.

Portugal Sets Record with Largest Programming Class (Illustration)

Under the guidance of programming expert Rodrigo Girão and professors Inês Lince and Arlindo Oliveira, the class attracted around 1,800 university students from various academic fields, ranging from Computer Engineering to Psychology. The initiative reflects a broader goal of highlighting Portugal's national talent and technological potential, as articulated by the organisers.

The CEO of Magma Studio, Miguel Gonçalves, emphasised the event’s dual purpose of setting a record and inspiring both the current and upcoming generations by showcasing the intersection of top-tier technology companies with promising talents. Similarly, Rogério Colaço, the president of Instituto Superior Técnico, expressed his pride in contributing to Portugal's educational mission, advocating the importance of programming in driving societal advancement.

This remarkable event was supported by the Lisbon City Council and the Unicorn Factory Lisbon, furthering the city's commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. As Portugal steps into the spotlight, the record underscores the nation's ambitious drive to nurture and retain young talent within its borders.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Thousands Join Programming Class to Break Guinness World Record (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Portugal Enters Guinness Records with the "World's Largest Programming Class" (SIC Notícias)
Portugal Sets Guinness World Record for "Largest Programming Class in the World" (SAPO.pt)

Storm Kirk Leaves Destruction Across Northern Portugal

2024-10-10T18:07:27+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Uma tempestade recente causou muitos problemas no norte de Portugal. Houve ventos fortes, chuvas pesadas e 567 incidentes , como árvores caídas. Transportes, como trens e estradas, tiveram grandes problemas. Muitas pessoas ficaram sem eletricidade. Apesar disso, houve apenas um ferido leve. A recuperação está em andamento e é preciso estar atento a novas tempestades.

Listen to this text (00:32)

Translation

A recent storm has caused significant disruption in northern Portugal. There were strong winds, heavy rain, and 567 incidents, such as fallen trees. Transport systems, including trains and roads, experienced severe issues. Many people were left without electricity. Despite this, there was only one minor injury. Recovery efforts are underway, and it is important to remain vigilant for future storms.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What caused problems in northern Portugal during the recent storm?

Strong winds, heavy rain, and 567 incidents like fallen trees.

Question 2: What happened to the transportation due to the storm?

Trains and roads had major problems.

Exercise: Vocabulary

tempestade (f.) - storm

vento (m.) - wind

incidente (m.) - incident

ferido - injured

recuperação (f.) - recovery

andamento (m.) - progress

Read the full story

▌10/10/2024

Storm Kirk swept through northern Portugal recently, causing widespread disruption and damage across the region. The severe weather conditions were marked by strong winds and heavy rainfall, particularly affecting the Northern and Central areas of the country.

The National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) reported a total of 567 incidents overnight, primarily resulting from falling trees and structures. These occurrences were concentrated mainly in the Metropolitan Area of Porto, Alto Minho, and the Cávado Sub-Region.

Rail transport faced significant challenges, with various train lines, including the Douro, Vouga, Minho, and the Braga branch, experiencing disruptions. These were attributed to debris and fallen trees obstructing the tracks, according to Comboios de Portugal (CP), the national railway company.

Storm Kirk Leaves Destruction Across Northern Portugal (Illustration)

In addition to the transport issues, the storm caused road closures. Significant roadways, such as the Avenida AEP connecting Matosinhos and Porto, were temporarily closed due to fallen trees. In Vila Pouca de Aguiar, a truck was overturned by the wind on a bridge, further illustrating the storm's intensity.

The storm's strong winds also led to power outages, impacting over 300,000 people. This left many without electricity, primarily in Aveiro and Vila Real, where trees and power lines were downed. The severe weather conditions also compelled the closure of schools and health centres in affected regions.

Besides the wind-related damage, heavy rains led to flooding, particularly in rivers such as the Cávado, Vez, and Lima. In one instance, the rain in the Minho region reached 40 litres per square metre within just six hours, prompting emergency services to maintain a constant presence on the ground.

Despite the extensive damage caused, only one minor injury was reported. Authorities continue to monitor the aftermath of the storm, as recovery and repair efforts are underway. The anticipation of another weather disturbance, depression ‘Leslie’, underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in the coming days.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Storm "Kirk": Over 500 Incidents Reported as Winds Uproot Trees, Disrupt Trains in the North and Traffic in Greater Porto (Expresso.pt)
Storm 'Kirk' Leaves Destructive Path Across the Country (Correio da Manhã)
Kirk Leaves a Trail of Destruction in the North and Center of the Country: See the Images (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Schools Closed, Roads Blocked, and Buildings Damaged: Storm Kirk Wreaks Havoc Nationwide (SIC Notícias)
Schools Closed, Roads Blocked, Buildings Damaged: Storm Kirk Wreaks Havoc Nationwide (SAPO.pt)

Portuguese Parliament Proposes Longer Parental Leave

2024-10-08T05:22:18+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Parlamento Português aprovou uma proposta para aumentar a licença parental de 120 ou 150 para 180 ou 210 dias. Isso pode custar 400 milhões de euros por ano. A proposta ainda será analisada antes da votação final. Há apoio de vários partidos , mas o PSD e CDS-PP são contra.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Portuguese Parliament has approved a proposal to extend parental leave from 120 or 150 days to 180 or 210 days. This could cost 400 million euros annually. The proposal will undergo further review before the final vote. It has support from various parties, but the PSD and CDS-PP are opposed.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is the current duration of parental leave in Portugal before the proposed change?

The current duration of parental leave is 120 or 150 days.

Question 2: How much is the proposed change to parental leave expected to cost per year?

The proposed change is expected to cost 400 million euros per year.

Exercise: Vocabulary

parlamento (m.) - parliament

aprovar - approve

proposta (f.) - proposal

analisar - analyse

votação (f.) - vote

partido (m.) - party

Read the full story

▌08/10/2024

The Portuguese Parliament has recently approved in principle a legislative proposal that could significantly increase the duration of parental leave. This initiative, driven by a citizen-led campaign with over 23,000 signatories, suggests extending the current leave period from 120 or 150 consecutive days to either 180 or 210 consecutive days. The proposal moves forward amid discussions on its financial implications and potential inclusion in the upcoming State Budget for 2025.

The proposed change has sparked considerable debate within Portugal's government circles due to its substantial estimated financial impact. The costs associated with extending parental leave are projected at around 400 million euros annually. Such a figure is pivotal for planning the forthcoming State Budget, making it a pressing topic for governmental and parliamentary discussions.

Portuguese Parliament Proposes Longer Parental Leave (Illustration)

In September, this amendment received widespread support from several opposition parties, including PS, Chega, IL, BE, PCP, Livre, and PAN. However, it faced opposition from the PSD and CDS-PP, the parties backing the current government. Although approved in the general vote, the proposal still requires further examination by the Labour, Social Security, and Inclusion Committee before returning to parliament for a final vote.

Despite the initial approval, the fate of the proposal remains uncertain. The involvement of multiple political entities and the financial stakes involved create a complex backdrop for ongoing budgetary negotiations. The Government has acknowledged this complexity and is currently in talks with the PS to determine the proposal's fate in relation to the State Budget for 2025.

Meanwhile, the Council of Ministers has provisionally approved the budget proposal for 2025, with final adjustments contingent upon these critical negotiations. Currently, the proposal’s approval is dependent on the voting patterns of the assembly members, as PSD and CDS-PP hold only 80 seats, insufficient for a majority. If the PS abstains or if Chega votes in favour, this year's budget and potentially the parental leave extension could see fruition.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Extended Parental Leave Will Cost 400 Million. Will It Be Included in the State Budget? (NoticiasAoMinuto)
Extension of Parental Leave Challenges Budget Plans: Government Says It Will Cost €400 Million (Expresso.pt)
Extended Parental Leave Strains Budget: Government Reports a 400 Million Impact (SIC Notícias)

Portuguese Government Rejects PS Proposal on IRC

2024-10-07T05:03:20+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O governo de Portugal, liderado por Luís Montenegro, não aceitou uma proposta do Partido Socialista (PS) para mudar impostos de empresas . A proposta queria dar incentivos para investimentos . O governo acha que isso não teria efeito imediato. As negociações continuam, e a aprovação do orçamento 2025 é importante para a estabilidade econômica.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

The government of Portugal, led by Luís Montenegro, has not accepted a proposal from the Socialist Party (PS) to change corporate taxes. The proposal aimed to provide incentives for investment. The government believes that this would not have an immediate effect. Negotiations continue, and the approval of the 2025 budget is important for economic stability.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who leads the government that rejected the PS proposal?

Luís Montenegro leads the government that rejected the PS proposal.

Question 2: What did the PS proposal aim to do for businesses?

The PS proposal aimed to give incentives for business investments.

Exercise: Vocabulary

governo (m.) - government

proposta (f.) - proposal

empresa (f.) - companies

incentivo (m.) - incentives

investimento (m.) - investments

estabilidade (f.) - stability

Read the full story

▌07/10/2024

The Portuguese Government, led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, has rejected a proposal from the Socialist Party (PS) to modify the approach to corporate tax reductions. This proposal was a part of ongoing negotiations surrounding the nation's 2025 budget, known as the Orçamento do Estado (OE2025).

The PS, under the leadership of Pedro Nuno Santos, suggested transforming a planned decrease in the Corporate Income Tax (IRC) into a fiscal credit aimed at boosting investment. This alternative was presented as a strategy to move the budget discussions forward. However, the government viewed this measure as unlikely to have much immediate effect, given the current economic growth of approximately 2 to 2.5% and existing investment incentives already in place.

The government aims to implement a more comprehensive and structural change to the IRC policy. Despite rejecting the specific PS proposal, government representatives indicated a willingness to continue negotiations, signaling openness to other potential agreements with the Socialist Party.

Portuguese Government Rejects PS Proposal on IRC (Illustration)

The discussions between the government and the PS have been characterized by disagreements over key budgetary issues, notably the reduction of both the Youth Personal Income Tax (IRS Jovem) and the corporate tax rate. With only days remaining before the budget must be finalized and submitted to the Portuguese Parliament, these issues remain significant points of contention.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that the ruling coalition, comprising the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People's Party (CDS-PP), lacks an outright majority in Parliament. Consequently, securing the support of opposition parties like the PS or even the Chega party is crucial for the passage of the OE2025.

Despite the current stalemate, negotiations are expected to continue until the approaching deadline for the budget presentation. Observers note the importance of reaching a consensus that aligns with national interests and fosters economic stability while addressing the pressing social issues outlined by the government and opposition parties alike.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Government Rejects Socialist Party Proposal to Restructure Corporate Tax (SAPO.pt)
Government Rejects Socialist Party's Proposal to Reform Corporate Tax (SIC Notícias)
State Budget 2025: Government Rejects PS Proposal on Corporate Tax (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Portugal Celebrates 114 Years of Republic Formation

2024-10-06T11:23:21+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

No dia 5 de outubro, Portugal celebrou 114 anos da Proclamação da República em Lisboa. O presidente Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa destacou a importância de melhorar os sistemas políticos. Houve o levantamento da bandeira e o hino nacional. O evento também lembrou o contexto histórico e a necessidade de proteger a democracia.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

On the 5th of October, Portugal celebrated the 114th anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic in Lisbon. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasised the importance of improving political systems. The event included the hoisting of the flag and the national anthem. It also recalled the historical context and the need to safeguard democracy.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What did President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa highlight during the celebration?

He highlighted the importance of improving political systems.

Question 2: What activities were part of the celebration in Portugal?

The activities included the raising of the flag and the singing of the national anthem.

Exercise: Vocabulary

celebrar - celebrate

proclamação (f.) - proclamation

presidente (m.) - president

destacar - highlight

levantamento (m.) - hoisting

contexto (m.) - context

Read the full story

▌05/10/2024

On 5th October, Portugal commemorated the 114th anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic. The event took place in Lisbon's Praça do Município, where Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa delivered a poignant speech underscoring the need for continuous evolution and reform in political systems.

This year's celebration is noteworthy as it occurs under the current minority government led by Luís Montenegro of the PSD/CDS-PP coalition. It also comes amidst ongoing negotiations concerning the 2025 state budget, heightening the political significance of the occasion.

The ceremony began with the traditional hoisting of the Portuguese flag and the national anthem. Following this, President Rebelo de Sousa spoke after the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, in front of prominent figures such as the Prime Minister and the President of the Assembly of the Republic.

Portugal Celebrates 114 Years of Republic Formation (Illustration)

In his address, President Rebelo de Sousa highlighted the necessity for political systems to adapt and become more aligned with the general populace. He expressed concern that if these institutions fail to evolve, they risk leaving a void that could be filled by less democratic forces. His comments came at a time of shifting global power dynamics, which he argued required proactive and thoughtful reform.

The president called upon all levels of governance and society to defend and strengthen democracy, warning against complacency. "We know more now than in the past; we must use this wisdom to bolster our democratic institutions," he asserted, emphasising the critical role of personal and collective responsibility in sustaining liberty and freedom of expression.

The event also served as a reminder of the historical context of the 5th October holiday, reinstated in 2016 after a three-year suspension during a period of financial austerity. Since becoming President, Rebelo de Sousa has consistently advocated for transparency, civic humility, and the need for political convergence to address both immediate and long-term challenges.

Amidst these reflections, the ceremony provided an opportunity to contemplate past lessons and future ambitions, inviting citizens to participate actively in shaping the democratic process.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Marcelo Speaks Today on the 114th Anniversary of the Republic's Establishment (SAPO.pt)
Marcelo to Speak Today on the 114th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic (NoticiasAoMinuto)

Portuguese Teachers Rally for Recognition and Investment

2024-10-05T12:44:02+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O Dia Mundial do Professor é celebrado em Portugal com várias atividades . Professores se reúnem em Lisboa para marchas e mostram suas opiniões sobre a educação. É um momento para lembrar o papel importante dos professores na sociedade. Há também eventos como shows e almoços comunitários em outras partes de Portugal.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

World Teachers' Day is celebrated in Portugal with various activities. Teachers gather in Lisbon for marches and express their views on education. It is a time to remember the important role of teachers in society. There are also events such as shows and community lunches in other parts of Portugal.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where do teachers gather to express their opinions about education?

Teachers gather in Lisbon to express their opinions about education.

Question 2: What are some activities mentioned that celebrate World Teachers' Day in Portugal?

Some activities include shows and community lunches.

Exercise: Vocabulary

celebrar - celebrate

atividade (f.) - activities

reunir - gather

marcha (f.) - marches

opinião (f.) - opinions

papel (m.) - role

Read the full story

▌05/10/2024

In commemoration of the 30th anniversary of World Teachers' Day, educators across Portugal are making their presence known through various activities and demonstrations. The Federação Nacional dos Professores (Fenprof) has scheduled a significant gathering in Lisbon at 2:30 PM in Rossio, followed by a march to Largo de Camões. This marks an expression of solidarity and a platform for advocating their stance on key educational issues.

The focus of the demonstrations aligns with the current climate in Portugal regarding the upcoming state's budget for 2025 and on-going educational reforms. As articulated by Fenprof, the occasion is seen not only as a celebration but also as an opportunity to "reassert the positions and proposals of teachers for future negotiations," particularly in the context of the national budget discussions. The theme "Valorising the Teacher's Voice," set by Educational International and UNESCO, resounds as a potent message targeting governmental policies.

Portuguese Teachers Rally for Recognition and Investment (Illustration)

Meanwhile, the Federação Nacional da Educação (FNE) is emphasising the crucial societal role played by teachers, advocating for enhanced recognition and investment in education. The organisation warns against cuts to educational funding, asserting that "investment is crucial to achieve quality education." As part of their initiatives, the FNE is set to unfurl a "Thanks, Teacher" flag at schools nationwide and has communicated their educational priorities to Fernando Alexandre, the Minister for Education, Science, and Innovation.

In addition to the capital's events, the observance of World Teachers' Day extends throughout Portugal with regional activities, including voluntary blood donations in the Azores, a concert in Madeira, and a communal gathering in Viana do Castelo. On the island of Terceira, the Sindicato dos Professores da Região Açores alongside the União de Sindicatos de Angra do Heroísmo are organising various events, including a communal lunch at Monte Brasil.

World Teachers' Day, celebrated annually on October 5th since 1994, was instituted following a joint recommendation by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNESCO in 1966. This day honours the dedication of educators who commit their lives to teaching and shaping society. As such, the day is both a celebration and a reminder of the pivotal role education plays in societal development.

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World Teacher's Day Celebrations Marked by Nationwide Activities (NoticiasAoMinuto)
World Teachers' Day Celebrations Marked by Events Nationwide (SAPO.pt)

Portuguese Parliament Rejects Bullfighting Referendum

2024-10-04T14:30:40+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O parlamento de Portugal rejeitou uma proposta para um referendo sobre a proibição das touradas. Apenas os partidos BE e Livre apoiaram. Houve debate intenso sobre cultura e direitos animais. Muitos políticos são contra o referendo , mas outros defendem a liberdade de escolha. A questão é importante para a sociedade portuguesa.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Portuguese parliament has rejected a proposal for a referendum on banning bullfighting. Only the BE and Livre parties supported it. There was intense debate about culture and animal rights. Many politicians are against the referendum, but others advocate for freedom of choice. The issue is significant for Portuguese society.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Which parties supported the proposal for a bullfighting referendum?

The BE and Livre parties supported the proposal.

Question 2: What were the main topics of debate regarding the proposal?

The main topics were culture and animal rights.

Exercise: Vocabulary

parlamento (m.) - parliament

rejeitar - reject

referendo (m.) - referendum

proibição (f.) - prohibition

cultura (f.) - culture

ser - to be

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▌04/10/2024

The Portuguese Parliament recently turned down a proposal put forward by the political party PAN (People-Animals-Nature) to conduct a referendum on the potential abolition of bullfighting in Portugal. This resolution was part of a broader move to curb tauromachic activities, including proposals aimed at prohibiting attendance by those under 16 years of age.

The referendum proposal received backing solely from the parties BE (Left Bloc) and Livre, alongside the abstention of three members of the Socialist Party (PS). In contrast, it faced opposition from a coalition of parties, including Chega, CDS-PP, Iniciativa Liberal, PSD, PS, and PCP.

This rejection came after a fervent debate on animal welfare that reflected divisions within the parliament and broader Portuguese society. Many lawmakers, like PS deputy Pedro Sousa, emphasized that the debate around bullfighting is not only a cultural issue but also about the type of democratic society that Portuguese citizens wish to uphold.

Portuguese Parliament Rejects Bullfighting Referendum (Illustration)

Proponents of the ban, including PAN's Inês Sousa Real, have criticised bullfighting as "an indescribable civilizational regression" and firmly believe that such spectacles are contrary to modern ethical standards. However, despite these strong arguments, the proposal did not gain sufficient parliamentary support, highlighting a reluctance to place this decision directly in the hands of the public through a referendum.

On the other side of the debate, figures like Gonçalo Valente from PSD, a former bullfighter himself, underscored the importance of respecting individual convictions, advocating for tolerance and responsibility when discussing such culturally imbued topics. Meanwhile, the CDS-PP party argued that such activities encompass an element of freedom and accused PAN of overstepping by seeking to dictate cultural preferences.

Additional legislative efforts by PAN and BE, such as preventing institutional support for bullfighting and other activities causing animal suffering, also faced rejection. These proposals did find a measure of support among some deputies yet ultimately fell short due to combined resistance from numerous parties.

The discourse surrounding bullfighting continues to resonate with fundamental questions about cultural heritage, democratic values, and the ethical treatment of animals. The debate underscores a nation in contemplation about the path its society will undertake, balancing tradition with evolving modern values.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Parliament Rejects Referendum on Banning Bullfighting (Correio da Manhã)
Parliament Rejects Referendum on Abolishing Bullfighting (NoticiasAoMinuto)

First Desalination Plant in Mainland Portugal Announced

2024-10-03T08:38:28+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

O governo de Portugal vai construir a primeira fábrica de dessalinização no Algarve para combater a escassez de água. Esta planta vai ajudar a região de Albufeira, que tem problemas com secas. O projeto mostra o compromisso de Portugal com a gestão sustentável da água e faz parte do Plano Regional de Eficiência Hídrica.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Portuguese government is set to build the country's first desalination plant in the Algarve to address water scarcity. This facility will aid the Albufeira region, which struggles with droughts. The project demonstrates Portugal's commitment to sustainable water management and is part of the Regional Water Efficiency Plan.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where will the desalination plant be built in Portugal?

It will be built in the Algarve region.

Question 2: Why is the desalination plant needed in Albufeira?

The plant is needed because Albufeira has problems with droughts.

Exercise: Vocabulary

dessalinização (f.) - desalination

escassez (f.) - scarcity

sustentável - sustainable

fábrica (f.) - factory

compromisso (m.) - commitment

gestão (f.) - management

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▌02/10/2024

In a bid to tackle water scarcity in the Algarve, the Portuguese Government announced the construction of the first desalination plant in mainland Portugal. This development aligns with both national and European environmental goals and forms part of the Regional Water Efficiency Plan.

First Desalination Plant in Mainland Portugal Announced (Illustration)

The project, set to be managed by Águas do Algarve, was revealed on National Water Day. The plant will be located in the municipality of Albufeira, a region often affected by drought cycles.

According to the government's statement, the plant's construction is a critical step in addressing the historical drought challenges faced by the Algarve. It illustrates Portugal's commitment to sustainable water management and reducing dependency on dwindling natural water resources.

Info: "Portuguese Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Portuguese", a language school dedicated to teaching Portuguese. We offer various types of online Portuguese classes, catering to diverse learning needs and proficiency levels.

Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Portugal's First Mainland Desalination Plant to be Built in Albufeira (SIC Notícias)
Portugal's First Desalination Plant to be Built in Albufeira (SAPO.pt)

Lisbon Firefighters Begin Month-Long Strike for Better Conditions

2024-09-30T12:36:03+00:00

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The news in Portuguese

Os bombeiros de Lisboa estão em greve em outubro. Eles querem melhores condições de trabalho e salários . Atualmente, eles ganham €722, menos que o salário mínimo. A greve pode continuar em novembro se não houver negociação . Também desejam ajustes na aposentadoria e melhor compensação por feriados.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Lisbon firefighters are on strike in October. They are demanding better working conditions and salaries. Currently, they earn €722, which is less than the minimum wage. The strike may continue into November if no negotiations occur. They also seek adjustments to their retirement plans and improved compensation for public holidays.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why are the Lisbon firefighters on strike?

They want better working conditions and salaries.

Question 2: What is the current salary of the firefighters?

They earn €722, which is less than the minimum wage.

Exercise: Vocabulary

bombeiro (m.) - firefighter

greve (f.) - strike

condição (f.) - condition

salário (m.) - salary

negociação (f.) - negotiation

aposentadoria (f.) - retirement

Read the full story

▌30/09/2024

The Lisbon Firefighters have embarked on a strike stretching from the beginning of October to the end of the month, demanding significant improvements in their working conditions. This protest has been instigated by the Sindicato dos Trabalhadores do Município de Lisboa (STML), emphasizing the necessity for the revision of the Professional Firefighters' Statute at the local administration level.

Originally slated for a shorter duration from October 1 to 13, the strike was extended to cover the entire month after a meeting failed to produce any commitment from the government to initiate negotiations. The union warned that the strike might continue into November if their demands are not satisfactorily addressed.

The key issue driving this strike is the outdated remuneration structure. Antonio Pascoal from the STML highlighted that firefighters are currently earning a base salary of €722, which is below the national minimum wage. The union argues that this salary not only violates legal standards but also fails to compensate for the risks and responsibilities that come with the job.

The firefighters are calling for a revision of the pay scale to ensure that no firefighter earns less than the legally guaranteed minimum wage. Moreover, they seek an adjustment of more than €52 in the current remuneration table, a demand fueled by a recent increase that public employees received but firefighters did not.

Lisbon Firefighters Begin Month-Long Strike for Better Conditions (Illustration)

Among their demands is the recognition of the firefighting profession as one of "rapid wear", given the high-risk nature of their work. The absence of a risk subsidy has placed them at a disadvantage, illustrated starkly by the casualties suffered during the recent summer season.

On top of salary revisions, the firefighters are also pressing for changes to their retirement system, ensuring it reflects the physical and psychological toll of their career. They advocate for a specific evaluation system that honors the unique aspects of their duties without being limited by quotas.

Their demands extend to the restoration of compensatory rest rights or additional compensation for work performed on mandatory public holidays. This rights restoration speaks to a broader request for better working conditions.

The Lisbon Firefighters will join a national protest organized by the Associação Nacional de Bombeiros Profissionais (ANBP) and the Sindicato Nacional de Bombeiros Profissionais (SNBP). This demonstration, aligned with the submission of the state budget to the Assembly of the Republic, will include a march from the Ministry of Internal Administration to the parliament.

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Advanced: Reports from Portugal

Lisbon Firefighters Strike in October for Better Working Conditions (SIC Notícias)
Lisbon Firefighters on Strike from October 1 to 31 (NoticiasAoMinuto)