Portugal to debate 2025 budget on October 30-31

The Leaders' Conference convened on a Wednesday to discuss the proposed schedule for the general debate regarding the 2025 budget, which is set for October 30 and 31. The final vote on the budget is planned for November 28. Jorge Paulo Oliveira, a Social Democrat MP and spokesman for the conference, emphasized that the proposed dates are still subject to approval by the Budget and Finance Committee, indicating that they are currently tentative. The timetable includes a special debate in parliament from November 22 to 28, contingent upon the committee's approval. According to legal requirements, the government is obligated to present the budget proposal to Parliament by October 10. Filipe Neto Brandão, the Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee and a Socialist MP, had previously suggested that the general debate on the 2025 State Budget occur on the same dates. The initial consensus within the committee also outlines that the budget discussions will commence on October 28, starting with a hearing of the Minister of Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, followed by the Minister of Social Security, Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho, on October 29. This structured approach aims to ensure a thorough examination of the budget before the final vote, reflecting the importance of fiscal planning for the upcoming year. The discussions are crucial for setting the financial priorities of the government and addressing the needs of the public.