en 
The Chega Parliamentary Group claims that, after the fires, “loggers pay a third of the value to forestry producers for the burned wood, although this continues to be useful for various purposes”.
In a bill, the party also adds that “the fires that occurred, especially in the summer, circulate a lot of money on account of the destruction and scorched earth”, in this context, Chega argues that “concrete measures must be taken concerning the industry created with the fires and the economic motivations that circulate it”.
The far-right party supports the ban on the sale of burnt wood, “to discourage criminal practice to obtain an economic advantage in the purchase of burnt wood”, as the bill reads.
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This is VERY interesting, and would explain why 119 arsonists were recently arrested.
By Hart from Lisbon on 21 Aug 2022, 07:37
Alway happy to read such news. it seems like the Portuguese government, or at least some, are waking up and see what devastating impact the paper industry has. These criminal activities putt a lot of life's at risk from the locals and our excellent firefighters just for profits of a few people. Let alone the devastating impact on the ecosystems. The Portuguese government should really make a stand now and not allow any lobbyists from the paper industry in anymore with their fairytales. Enough is enough.
The government should not only compensate after the harm has already been done, but should in addition educate locals on the devastating effects of "selling off" their lands to the paper industry and should hold the accords made in 2017. They should come up with and promote to the locals, alternatives that are more sustainable for the long run. Better alternatives that support the beautiful ecosystems as they used to be in Portugal.
Prevention is still better/cheaper then to "cure" something.
By PT Green from Beiras on 21 Aug 2022, 08:07
The more I read about Chega, the more I like them.
By Ian from Other on 21 Aug 2022, 20:08
It is true Ian, the more I see of this Chega Party the more I like many of their ideas; practical and thoughtful although there are as with any party things I don't like.
The article is an eye opener and the comments even better. I hope Portugal doesn't end up like the US; that's why I'm leaving there, lobbyists, corruption and SOOO much more like politics and guns.
By Wes from USA on 22 Aug 2022, 02:42
To gain attention, political figures often make bold statements.
But one has to ask, has this statements even been remotely thought through?
Will he be banning the sale of charcoal too?
Not compensating the victim of fires! Arguably that would just encouraging the government to stop spending money on fire prevention.
As to Comercially minded fire barons, setting fires to sell the wood at a later date. The pattern of arrest for people who have been sent to trail for these arsons attacks, doesn't justify that statement. They have been housewives and ordinary looking people who just wanted to see what would happen if they set a fire.
The only Comercial Arsons I can remember was in about 2005.
The Monchique fires of that year.
The mystery Black plane reported flying over the area, and incendiary devices attached to parachutes.
I believe some business men were interviewed, and a rumor about trying to free up land for housing surfaced. But I can't remember a successful prosecution being reported. Maybe someone else can?
By Gerry ward from Alentejo on 02 Sep 2022, 02:01