The Governor of the Bank of Portugal stated that positive budget balances are achievable in 2026 and 2027, driven by a significant upward revision of GDP growth from 1.8% to 2.3% for the current year. This revision is expected to lead to higher tax revenues, supporting the Government's target of a small surplus.
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The government launched a 30-million-euro funding program to upgrade wastewater treatment plants (ETARs) to produce water for reuse (ApR). The scheme offers up to 85% co-financing for municipalities, state and local business sectors, and utility companies across mainland Portugal, with application windows open until May 20, 2027, and September 20, 2027.
The Technical Unit for Budgetary Support (UTAO) estimates that extending parental leave to six months with 100% pay would cost 230 million euros, a figure lower than the government's initial estimate of 445 million. Various opposition proposals for parental leave extensions are estimated to cost between 33 million and 290 million euros.
Farmers on mainland Portugal affected by storm Kristin can apply for financial support from the Agricultural Reserve between 7 October and 30 October. The aid covers losses in open-air annual crops, greenhouse crops, pig farming, and dairy cattle, with applications submitted via the IFAP (Instituto de Financiamento da Agricultura e Pescas) portal.