Funchal's €500,000 housing scheme postponed to 2027 after budget cuts elsewhere

The opposition JPP has criticised Funchal's PSD/CDS-led council over its "Habitar Funchal" scheme. The sixth amendment to the 2026 municipal budget set aside €500,000 for it, yet the council has since said the money will not be spent this year and the scheme moves to 2027. JPP says the funds came from cuts to the kennel (€180,000), public toilet upkeep (€68,000) and free taxi rides for over-75s (€100,000). The scheme, announced in June, aims to rent homes on the market and sublet them at reduced rents. JPP wants a clear timetable for applications.