The president of Madeira's Regional Government, Miguel Albuquerque, says private companies should weigh preventive measures to keep staff off the roads during the current bad weather. But he added that the final call on sending workers home rests with each company, not the government.
Albuquerque spoke to reporters on the sidelines of a reception for the commander of the GNR, the Portuguese military police force. He said travel decisions should rest on the most reliable weather data available. They should also be made as close as possible to when the forecast conditions are expected to hit.
We do not need to raise any alarm.
Miguel Albuquerque, president of Madeira's Regional Government
He called for responsibility from both individuals and companies. The goal, he said, is to avoid unnecessary travel and protect people's safety and property during the worst of the weather.
School Closure Could Extend Beyond Wednesday Morning
Asked whether the Regional Government might extend the closure of schools past Wednesday morning, Albuquerque did not rule it out.
We are in prevention mode.
Miguel Albuquerque, president of Madeira's Regional Government
The government had already ordered schools closed until 13:00 on Wednesday, after IPMA issued a red warning for heavy rain and wind overnight.
Government Will Keep Working Over the Next 24 Hours
Albuquerque said the regional Executive will keep monitoring the situation as it develops in the coming hours.
The Government will not stay home. The Government is working over the next twenty-four hours.
Miguel Albuquerque, president of Madeira's Regional Government
He appealed for calm and composure, saying the region is used to this kind of weather episode. Albuquerque added that he will be available in person should any situation arise that requires his presence.
Source: jm-madeira.pt
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