Portugal And Italy Suspend EU Biometric Border Checks

The Portuguese government has suspended proposed changes to the social mobility subsidy. Minister Miguel Pinto informed deputies during an Assembly of the Republic hearing that the government is awaiting a decision on specific parameters. The discussions involve the financing regime for air travel between the mainland and the islands of Madeira and the Azores. The Portuguese government is analyzing a proposal for new labor legislation that aims for modern flexibility. President António José Seguro has called for consensus between social partners, including unions and employers, regarding the proposal. Economist António Mendonça noted that while flexibility is necessary, it should not transform the nature of workers. The debate remains ongoing as the proposal undergoes analysis. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced that companies affected by this year's storms may suspend water bill payments for up to one year. The moratorium is expected to be approved during tomorrow's Council of Ministers meeting. The opposition criticized the PTRR resilience and transformation program during the session. The decision comes ahead of the anticipated UK half-term travel rush.