Chega in the Azores has asked the regional government what it is doing to prevent and treat gambling addiction, amid figures indicating a sharp rise in money gambling among students aged 13 to 18 between 2019 and 2024.
In a statement, the party said data from Portugal’s Institute for Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies (ICAD) showed an increase of around 11 percentage points—nearly three times the previously recorded level. Chega described the trend as concerning and raised the issue in a request submitted to the regional parliament.
The party wants to know how many people in the Azores have sought help for gambling addiction, what specialist services are available through the Regional Health Service, how many prevention activities have been held in schools, and what funding has been allocated to address the problem.
José Pacheco, Chega’s parliamentary leader in the region, said gambling addiction can affect not only the person who gambles but also their families. He called for concrete measures and results, rather than promises or plans that are not put into practice.
Pacheco also warned that young people, including minors, are being exposed to betting and gambling. The party said the consequences can include debt, family conflict, social isolation and serious mental health problems.
Sources: Observador.