The celebration of 100 years of dedication, courage, and service to the community honored the various generations of firefighters, leaders, staff, members, and families who contributed to the institution's history. The commemorative program took place throughout the weekend, including rides in fire trucks for children and a solemn session with the blessing of new vehicles, presentation of medals and distinctions, and a foot and motorized parade.
During the solemn session, the Mayor of Mealhada, António Jorge Franco, emphasized the importance of permanently valuing the firefighters' work, ensuring necessary support and conditions. "Recognizing this value cannot happen only on anniversary days. It must happen all year round, with respect, with support, and with conditions for firefighters to continue fulfilling their mission," he stated.
António Jorge Franco also advocated for the Municipality of Mealhada's continued inclusion in the sub-regional Civil Protection structure of the Coimbra Region, recalling the investments and effectiveness of the integrated strategy for the 19 municipalities of the Intermunicipal Community of the Metropolitan Region of Coimbra.
The Minister of Internal Administration, Luís Neves, reaffirmed the indispensable role of firefighters and the importance of cooperation between entities. He announced the creation of 50 more permanent intervention teams by the end of 2026, the review of the sector's legal framework, the valorization of firefighters, the implementation of program contracts, and the updating of fire corps typologies, in addition to increased funding and regularization of overdue payments.
The Pampilhosa Volunteer Firefighters Humanitarian Association mentioned an investment of approximately 350,000 euros in the acquisition of three new vehicles for the corps, highlighting the need to ensure conditions for the continuation of its century-long mission.
