“The departure of eight PJ inspectors, previously responsible for border control with PSP at Ponta Delgada airport, has revealed a serious situation,” SIAP said.

In a statement, the union says the situation “was foreseeable at least six months ago,” but “was not addressed by the PSP National Directorate or its overseers.”

“It’s not just about departing officers; border operations are now at risk,” SIAP warns.

The union says that, despite trained officers available, PSP staff shortages block resource reorganisation for border control. No officer has been assigned to replace the departed inspectors, with priorities given to Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. The Azores, SIAP claims, remain neglected, with the Regional Government complicit.

SIAP criticises the Azorean government for failing to reinforce personnel or push for solutions since the elections, despite campaign promises.

SIAP also alleges problems with a new computer system in border control, describing it as slow and error-prone, which increases processing times.

The lack of police officers is expected to worsen delays, hinder air operations, and cause passengers to be held on aircraft due to inadequate facilities. This could directly affect the region’s tourism appeal, especially since fewer airlines operate in the Azores.

According to the union, "this scenario exposes, once again, an even more worrying reality," namely, "the State is unable to attract PSP candidates. The results continue to fall short," it argues.

The union describes police stations as understaffed, with officers experiencing burnout and an increasing workload, undermining their ability to manage responsibilities effectively and potentially compromising public safety.