Parliament approved on Thursday, May 2nd, in general, the PS bill to eliminate tolls in the former SCUT and in the Algarve with votes in favor of the socialists, Chega, BE, PCP, Livre and PAN .
In the votes on this project, PSD and CDS-PP voted against and IL abstained.
After a tense debate and with many exchanges of accusations, the PS initiative to eliminate toll fees on sections and subsections of motorways in the Interior (formerly SCUT) or where there are no alternative routes that allow for use in quality and safety, now following the projects for the specialty process.
The PS proposal – the only one that was approved – aims to end tolls on the A22, but also on the A4 – Transmontana and Túnel do Marão, A13 and A13-1 – Pinhal Interior, A23 – Beira Interior, A24 – Interior Norte, A25 – Beiras Litoral and Alta and A28 – Minho in the sections between Esposende and Antas and between Neiva and Darque.
In a post on social media, with the title “Tolls never again!”, Algarve socialists congratulate themselves on the elimination of tolls on Via do Infante. “A historic vote that successfully culminates a struggle that united the Algarve, mayors, business and trade union associations and the most diverse social movements. A regional consensus that previously also included the PSD but now, after all, has its opposition”, it can be read.
“The PSD, including the deputies elected by the Algarve, voted against the elimination of tolls. Everyone’s role in this decision becomes clear. The Socialist Party, its general secretary, Pedro Nuno Santos, and its deputies honored their word and the commitment made to the Algarve. Never again tolls on Via do Infante!”, they exalt.
This measure – which according to the socialists has a budgetary impact of 157 million euros – will come into force on January 1, 2025, according to the PS bill.
The BE and PCP bills – which followed the same line of abolition of tolls, but covering more roads and with other details – were failed with equal votes: PSD, Chega, IL and CDS-PP voted against and PS, BE , PCP, Livre and PAN in favor.
The blockers intend to…
