LONDON
Concerns and challenges faced by the Portuguese community in the UK were discussed by advisory councillors of the Council of the Portuguese Communities (CPC) during a recent two-day working visit in the Channel Islands, Jersey and Guernsey.
The CPC is the Portuguese government's advisory body for policies relating to emigration and Portuguese communities living abroad. The CPC raises issues and reduces hardships pertaining to any consulate work, while also promoting Portuguese culture, heritage and language.
During the two-day working visit to the Channel Islands, the five CPC advisory councillors to the UK and Ireland”António Cunha, Pedro Xavier, Duarte Fernandes, Ciana D’Costa, and Sandra Ferreira”along with other officials from Lisbon held various meetings with local authorities, including the Mayor of St Helier and the Honorary Consul of Portugal in Jersey, as well as with representatives and members of the Portuguese and Goan-Portuguese communities residing on the islands.
“Throughout the meetings, we CPC advisory councillors had the opportunity to learn about several concerns and challenges faced by the Portuguese community, notably the teaching of the Portuguese language; the need for greater civic information on the exercise of voting rights in elections in Portugal; difficulties in securing consular appointments; the lack of communication and information from Portuguese authorities to the resident communities; and issues related to pensions, among other matters of social relevance,” said Ciana.
“As part of this visit, we also attended a community event that brought together around 250 people, providing an important cultural and social occasion that strengthened the ties between the Portuguese community and local authorities.”
She said the visit is part of the ongoing commitment of the CPC advisory councillors of the Portuguese communities in the United Kingdom to promote the defence of the interests, rights, and well-being of Portuguese communities living abroad, contributing to the strengthening of dialogue between citizens and Portuguese institutions.
Ciana said her aim is to continue being a strong link between Portugal and the Goan diaspora, serving with dedication, integrity, and pride in our shared heritage.
“As a Goan-origin CPC advisory councillor serving the community in the United Kingdom and Ireland, my journey has been defined by a strong sense of duty, cultural pride, and commitment to service,” said Ciana.
Ciana said this journey reflects not only her work but also the resilience, heritage, and unity of Goans who have carried Portuguese ancestry across generations and continents.
“My role has allowed me to support countless individuals as they navigate various challenges related to documentation, nationality matters, legal procedures, and social integration in the UK and Ireland,” she said.
“Guiding people through complicated processes, clarifying their doubts, and offering reassurance during uncertain times has been one of my most meaningful achievements. The trust that the community has placed in me continues to inspire and motivate my work.”
Looking ahead, Ciana said she is determined to expand her efforts and make support even more accessible.
“One of my key plans is to provide structured assistance for Goans with their enquiries on a wide range of issues”whether administrative, legal, or related to Portuguese citizenship and rights,” said Ciana.
“Additionally, I plan to introduce Portuguese language classes for the Goan community in the UK and Ireland. As many of us hold Portuguese nationality through our ancestors, I believe learning the language is not only a right but also an important way to honour our roots and strengthen our cultural identity. Mastering Portuguese will empower our community, improve integration, and preserve the legacy passed down to us.”
