VOICED : Shrinking Portuguese town turns to cash-for-babies scheme

The video discusses the low fertility rate in the Algarve, where the village of Occultum offers €5000 to parents for each new baby to combat population decline. The program, though generous, only covers the child's first three years. With limited employment options, many locals rely on this financial aid. The National Institute of Statistics predicts a 20% population drop by 2016, but the cash for babies initiative is showing positive results with an increase in births.

What is the primary goal of the financial incentive program in Occultum?

• To improve healthcare facilities

• To encourage more births by alleviating financial burdens

• To support local businesses

• To increase tourism in the village

How does the cash for babies program in Occultum compare to similar initiatives?

• It is the first of its kind

• It is only available to residents of the Algarve

• It is the most generous of its kind

• It is less generous than others

What drastic action did the mayor of Occultum take in response to the population decline?

• Closed local businesses

• Built new schools

• Introduced a cash incentive for new births

• Increased taxes

What are the main sources of employment in Occultum?

• Education and healthcare

• Social care center, fire brigade, and town hall

• Tourism and agriculture

• Technology and finance

What is the expected impact of the cash for babies program on the birth rate in Occultum?

• An increase in the birth rate

• A temporary increase followed by a decrease

• No change in the birth rate

• A decrease in the birth rate