From an unsuitable and old building, the premises of the Judiciary Police in Portimão will move to a modern place, measuring 4000 square meters, with «the functionalities that the PJ needs». The land, next to Avenida V6, was ceded by the City Council and the work should start in 2019 to be ready in 2021, with the objective of providing the PJ with facilities "up to the parchments of the city".
These were the words of Francisca Van Dunem, Minister of Justice, who was present this Monday, 29 May, at the signing of the protocol for the transfer of the land to the new facilities of the Criminal Investigation Department of the PJ.
The work, which will cost five million euros, was, according to the minister, "priority", and ended up being facilitated by the municipality. “This process is exemplary of cooperation between central and local government,” said Francisca Van Dunem. This is because it was the municipality that gave the land, but it will be the Ministry of Justice that will carry out the works.
For Isilda Gomes, mayor of Portimão, the day is "very important" for the city and "for the Algarve". Despite the "very significant" value of the land (347 thousand euros), Isilda Gomes says that "we did what was our obligation."
In addition to the land, "there is also a commitment to build access, parking and lighting," he added. Joaquim Rodrigues, president of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Financial Management and Justice Equipment, considered that the land has «all the conditions».
With these new facilities, which replace the existing ones on Rua do Pé da Cruz, the objective is also to improve the city's image. “Looking at the current facilities, they have no dignity. Portimão and the Algarve are a showcase for the country», said the mayor from Portimão.
For example, in the current PJ building, which was built to house apartments and shops, there is no elevator, which makes the Police's work difficult. In the future facilities, there will be "suitable spaces for inquiries, space for cells" or "autonomous entrances and exits, for employees and the public", explained the minister.
Despite the current bad conditions, Pedro Carmo, deputy national director of the Judiciary Police, emphasizes that these professionals are "accustomed to working in any circumstances." "It is an act of justice to provide employees with adequate conditions, comfort and efficiency," he added.
As for the PJ of Faro, Francisca Van Dunem, asked if there are also planned works, said she was looking for "an alternative".
Photos: Ana Madeira | Sul Informação
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