Thousands of police officers protesting against the government’s proposed state budget for next year, which foresees major cuts, invaded the Parliament’s exterior stairs tonight (November 21) at around 9pm. Breaking through security barriers formed by their colleagues on duty, the protesting officers angrily called for the government’s resignation while demanding better working conditions.
Protestors included officers from the GNR, PSP, Polícia Judiciária, SEF and the prison services.
The demonstration, which started in Largo de Camões at around 5pm, aimed to fight proposed budgetary cuts affecting all police forces, meaning worse working conditions and a lack of resources with which to fulfil their duties.
This is the first time all security forces in Portugal joined together to fight government policies in a protest that has been described as a historic moment in the country.
Arménio Carlos, leader of Portugal’s major trade union CGTP, praised the officers’ “courage” for participating in the demonstration, particularly officers in military forces, braving the possibility of disciplinary action .
