Government pledges support for media without interference

Saturday, 18 April 2026AI summary
Government pledges support for media without interference
Photo: RTP Notícias

Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro stated that the government intends to support the media sector without compromising its independence. Proposed measures include increased funding for newspaper distribution, mandatory public entity advertising in regional media, and new tax incentives. The minister also noted that the Lusa news agency has potential to expand its coverage across more national geographies.

Context & Explainers

António Leitão Amaro is Portugal's Minister of the Presidency (Ministro da Presidência) in the government led by Luís Montenegro. He is a key figure in the Social Democratic Party (Partido Social Democrata or PSD) and often is the government's spokesperson. Those following housing and rental policy should note his role in announcing the June 2024 measures regarding evictions and inheritances.

The government is amending the statutes of Lusa, Portugal's national news agency, to make the organization more professional and less influenced by political shifts. It is the primary source for breaking news and official reports, providing content to media outlets across the country. Those following local news should note that Lusa is often the first to report on government announcements and legislative changes.