Portugal counts cost of Madeleine abduction

TOURISM is one of Portugal’s most important economic activities.

In the Algarve, it is estimated that at least 60% of the population rely on the multi-billion euro industry for a living.

It is therefore understandable that Portugal works hard at projecting an image of sun, sand, sea, safety and security.

But with the disappearance of Madeleine McCann there are growing fears in some quarters that tourism will feel the pinch, at least in the immediate future.

Fears are now growing that many potential tourists from Britain and the rapidly expanding Irish market might just opt out of a trip to the Algarve, especially if they have young children.

However, British tourists interviewed at Faro airport this week have been adamant that their perception of the Algarve as a family destination has not been altered.

However, the habits of holidaying families have been visibly altered.

The dozen or so pubs in the village centre are now uniquely frequented by childless parents or pensioners and those who cannot resist the urge of eating out, take their children along.

Four days after Madeleine’s disappearance Chelsea manager José Mourinho, was told that the multi-million euro campaign he was asked to lead to promote the Algarve in London had been cancelled. The decision, made by tourism authorities in Lisbon, has been vehemently criticised by the Algarve Tourism Board (RTA).

The RTA says the suspension of the campaign, known as Allgarve, is a mistake, as Madeleine’s disappearance had nothing to do with a lack of safety and security in the region.

Economy Minister Manuel Pinho has defended the decision to suspend the campaign.

“It would be in terribly bad taste,” he said.

Minister Marta Suplicy, in an interview to the Lusa New Agency, added that while “Portugal is a first world tourism destination, a case such as this (Madeleine) will have an unfair impact on tourism”.