Portuguese Environmental Administrative Structures

LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITIES

In Portugal the Legislative Branch consists of a single parliamentary chamber elected every four years. The Prime Minister is the head of the executive branch (Government) and is appointed by the President of the Republic, in accordance with general elections results. The Government establishes and enforces general policies in all areas and is the primary body of public administration. The President of the Republic is independent from the government, represents the country, and has an important constitutional role that includes the capacity to promulgate and veto legislation.

Like in other areas of Portuguese law, with regard to environmental legislation Government and Parliament are the major legislators. In Portugal, any statute - whether it is a Law from the legislative branch or a Decree Law from the executive branch - is applicable to the whole country (see endnote 1).