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Government Rejects PS Intelligence Pact, Hospital Faces Abortion Probe

A significant political standoff has emerged as the Portuguese government rejected forming 'regime agreements' with the Socialist Party (PS) for crucial intelligence service appointments, signaling a potential breakdown in broader political consensus. This development comes as the Minister of the Presidency, Leitão Amaro, reiterated that pension reform will not be addressed during the current legislative term, declaring the 'dossier closed'.

In other domestic news, the Garcia de Orta Hospital is under scrutiny for allegedly violating regulations concerning abortion procedures. Meanwhile, local authorities in Vila Nova de Gaia reversed a decision to fence off Jardim do Morro following public criticism, and the proliferation of shared electric scooters is increasingly seen as a nuisance in Portuguese cities, raising concerns about safety and public space.

Economically, an analysis of the state budget indicates that while VAT and road tax are preventing a fiscal crisis, investment is significantly behind schedule, and interest rates are rising faster than anticipated.

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Government Rejects Intelligence Agreements with PS

The Portuguese government, represented by José Luís Carneiro, Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS), has indicated a stance against forming 'regime agreements' with the Socialist Party (PS) for key intelligence service appointments, a move that signals a potential breakdown in broader political consensus.

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