President Albuquerque Blames Drugs for Rise in Homelessness

President Highlights the Role of Synthetic Drugs in Homelessness

Miguel Albuquerque, president of Madeira’s regional government, has attributed the recent rise in homelessness to the growing use of synthetic drugs. Speaking at the 9th Volunteer Meeting in Funchal, Albuquerque dismissed high rental prices as the primary cause, emphasizing that drug addiction is the key driver behind homelessness.

The Housing Institute, for instance, has a rental subsidy, and we have been applying it. I don’t know how many people or families can benefit from this subsidy to cover rental increases, and we’ve also provided support in obtaining housing. They make it difficult for these people to reintegrate, and then they complain about being on the streets. Of course, yes, because what happens now is that, even if we want and have the family to treat these people, their treatment in institutions is not possible.

Miguel Albuquerque, President

Addiction Complicates Homelessness Solutions

Albuquerque explained that addiction, especially to synthetic drugs, makes it difficult to provide effective housing or treatment for homeless individuals. He also stressed that national legislation does not allow hospitalizations without the parents' authorization.

Source: RTP Madeira