The municipal assembly of Lisbon has approved a motion presented by the CDS-PP party, calling on the government to address the issue of housing overcrowding in the city. The motion, which was approved with the votes of PSD, CDS-PP, and Chega, aims to create clearer rules on housing overcrowding and to define the responsibilities of the entities involved in monitoring and intervening in such situations. According to the motion, thousands of people in Lisbon are affected by housing overcrowding.
The motion highlights the need for a clear definition of housing overcrowding, citing the current lack of a legal definition as a major obstacle to addressing the issue. The CDS-PP party argues that the absence of clear rules and responsibilities has led to situations where housing units and commercial spaces are being used as clandestine dormitories, compromising human dignity, safety, and public health. The party also emphasizes that the issue is not just a matter of housing policy, but also of the dignity of individuals and the authority of the state.
The approved motion calls on the government to establish a legal definition of housing overcrowding, based on objective criteria related to the type, useful area, and conditions of use of housing units. The motion also proposes the clarification of the division of competences between municipalities, the Institute of Housing and Urban Rehabilitation (IHRU), health authorities, civil protection, security forces, and other public entities. This, according to the CDS-PP, will ensure a more effective response to the issue of housing overcrowding.
The motion also requests the reinforcement of the legal instruments available to municipalities, allowing them to restore safety, health, and habitability conditions in overcrowded housing units. Furthermore, the CDS-PP proposes the establishment of permanent mechanisms for coordination between the various entities involved in monitoring and intervening in situations of housing overcrowding, including the Authority for Working Conditions, the Tax Authority, and health authorities.
The issue of housing overcrowding in Lisbon has been linked to the scarcity of affordable housing, with many residents facing difficulties in accessing decent and affordable housing. The CDS-PP party argues that the current situation is unsustainable and that urgent action is needed to address the issue. The party also emphasizes the need to distinguish between situations of housing overcrowding and practices of illegal economic exploitation.
The approval of the motion has been seen as a positive step towards addressing the issue of housing overcrowding in Lisbon. However, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the CDS-PP's proposals and whether the necessary measures will be taken to address the issue. The motion has also highlighted the need for a coordinated approach to addressing the issue, involving multiple entities and stakeholders.
The issue of housing overcrowding is a complex one, requiring a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. The CDS-PP's motion has brought attention to the issue, and it is now up to the government to take concrete steps to address it. The success of the motion will depend on the effective implementation of its proposals and the coordination of the various entities involved.
Key points
- The Lisbon municipal assembly has approved a motion calling for clearer rules on housing overcrowding.
- The motion aims to create a legal definition of housing overcrowding and clarify the responsibilities of entities involved in monitoring and intervening in such situations.
- The issue of housing overcrowding in Lisbon has been linked to the scarcity of affordable housing.
