The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Forestry has decided to maintain the exemption of fees at public slaughterhouses in the case of cattle, pigs and birds slaughtered for the Holy Spirit Festivities taking place on all islands of the Azores.

The decision is enforced in an ordinance issued by João Ponte that was published today in the Official Journal. It takes into account the "solidarity purpose" of slaughtered animals, namely the "pensões" (meat offerings), the celebrations involving thousands of people and the fact that is a centuries' old tradition celebrated in the archipelago and the Diaspora.
 
During this festive period, there is a considerable increase in the slaughter of animals every year and, with this measure, the Government intends to provide a direct contribution "to keeping alive the cultural expression of the Azorean People."
 
Under the terms of the ordinance issued by the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Forestry, the slaughter fee exemption will only enter into force upon the delivery of the animals at the slaughterhouse by the "mordomos" (main organisers of festivities) or their representatives and upon presentation of a statement issued by the Village Council certifying the intended purpose.