PORTUGAL FIRES

Minister resigns as govt faces challenge

London: Portugal's interior minister has resigned after dozens of people died in a massive outbreak of forest fires, reports BBC.

In her resignation letter, Constança Urbano de Sousa said she was leaving to "preserve her personal dignity".

 The deadly wildfires killed at least 41 people and hundreds more were injured - the second such tragedy this year. Another four died in northern Spain.

Portugal's president has also called on parliament to consider if the current government should continue in office.

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said the government should have a strong mandate in order to enforce fire fighting and forest management reforms to avoid future tragedies. His presidency is largely ceremonial, but he does have the power to dissolve parliament.

PORTUGAL FIRES

Minister resigns as govt faces challenge

London: Portugals interior minister has resigned after dozens of people died in a massive outbreak of forest fires, reports BBC. In her resignation letter, Constana Urbano de Sousa said she was leaving to preserve her personal dignity. The deadly wildfires killed at least 41 people and hundreds more were injured - the second such tragedy this year. Another four died in northern Spain. Portugals president has also called on parliament to consider if the current government should continue in office. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said the government should have a strong mandate in order to enforce fire fighting and forest management reforms to avoid future tragedies. His presidency is largely ceremonial, but he does have the power to dissolve parliament.