“We spend over €400,000 on lifeguard-related costs and then receive €45,000 from the concessionaires,” explained Fabíola Oliveira (PS), referring to the cooperation agreement between the municipality and the operators of beach support facilities and bathing amenities, which was unanimously approved at the executive meeting, as part of that spending approach.

During the council session, the councillor had already explained that hiring lifeguards is a very serious problem for the country, particularly because the training requirements are very demanding, while noting that Viana do Castelo has secured the full number of lifeguards in time for the start of the bathing season.

“This is due to the fact that the City Council handles the hiring. The Council hires them well in advance, allowing the company to plan ahead for the start of the bathing season,” she observed, highlighting the council’s early coordination.

Mayor Luís Nobre stated that this involves a significant investment that is worth it.

“We don’t take a demanding stance, waiting for the concessionaires to solve the problem. We solve it ourselves and then coordinate with them. The awarding of the eight Blue Flags is also a recognition of the services provided,” he noted, reinforcing the council’s proactive approach.

Duarte Martins, an elected member representing the AD coalition (PSD/CDS-PP), advocated for more lasting solutions to the lifeguard shortage.

The agreement, which Lusa has reviewed, covers 13 beaches; for 11 of them, the service covers the three months of the bathing season, defining the scope of the arrangement.

At two beaches, Cabedelo and Luziamar, lifeguard coverage extends to the full 12 months of the year. The Viana do Castelo City Council also unanimously approved the allocation of 40,000 euros to various parish councils in preparation for the bathing season and to address the need for the “maintenance, rehabilitation, and cleaning of natural areas,” which see higher visitor numbers at this time of year, explained the councillor for the Environment.