Police Rising: Protests For Fair Wages In Funchal

Police Rising: Protests For Fair Wages In Funchal

Recent crimes highlight the necessity for a well-equipped police force. But very low law enforcement salaries finally ignited protests across Madeira.

Various Security Forces Unite For a Joint Call

In recent days, Public Security Police (PSP) agents have taken to the streets, expressing their concerns over discrimination. The trigger for these protests was the government's decision to allocate a mission supplement exclusively to the Judiciary Police (Polícia Judiciária), leaving other security forces, including the military of the Republican National Guard (GNR), Public Security Police agents, Maritime Police elements, and Prison Guards, feeling neglected.

PSP Protests Gained Momentum

The movement originated within the PSP, gaining momentum as other security forces rallied behind their cause. The protests are nationwide and have extended to Madeira, where 300 protesters gathered for a vigil in Praça do Município, Funchal as well as in Porto Santo. The regional coordinator of ASPP/PSP Madeira (Union) confirmed that the demonstration, held on a Friday, was authorized by the mayor.

“NÃO SOMOS POLÍCIA LOW-COST”

Protest Banner at Praça do Município, Funchal

Protest For Better Wages & Working Conditions

The demonstrators, united in their call for better wages, improved working conditions, and the inclusion of a mission supplement, vow to persist until their concerns are acknowledged by the authorities. However, the increasing protests across the country have left the duration of the demonstrations uncertain. As the security forces stand firm in their collective effort, the authorities face the challenge of addressing the shared problems to bring resolution to the ongoing situation.

Monthly Net Salary Starting at €809

The ASPP/PSP has observed a substantial decline in the number of candidates pursuing careers in law enforcement. According to Portugalnews, compared to the 1990s and early 21st century, the candidate pool has dwindled from around 10,000 to just over 2,000. The association attributes this decline to concerns regarding the selection process for police officer courses, highlighting a base salary of only €809 (2022) as one of the main reasons.

Highlighting a growing concern, the ASPP/PSP underscores the heightened risk of violence against police professionals in recent years. Incidents have surged from 122 in 2016 to 239 in 2019. This alarming increase in violence poses a significant challenge to those considering or already engaged in law enforcement careers.

Salaries of The Public Security Police (PSP) & Republican National Guard (GNR)

The following salaries can be expected. The amount depends on the rank, with €809.13 being the entry salary. These net figures already include shift and service allowances as well as patrol supplements. Statistics are from the year 2022. For more figures, see source: Masterd.pt.

  1. €809.13

  2. €847.67

  3. €955.37

  4. €1007.49

  5. €1059.59

  6. €1111.72

  7. €1163.82

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