Conxita Marsol, the Minister of Presidency, Economy, Labour and Housing, has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with the Housing Union after a meeting held yesterday. Both parties discussed their positions and addressed the eight points raised by the union.
The government anticipates receiving a proposal for an agreement by 13 November, which will allow for final decisions to be made. This meeting occurs amid calls for action and potential protests related to the Purísima, although Marsol clarified that discussions did not directly address possible disruptions.
Regarding evictions, the minister affirmed that the government acknowledges the need to provide housing alternatives for those lacking resources. She noted that regulations already require the administration to facilitate housing in such cases, and that the Ministry of Social Affairs has mechanisms in place to assist families facing eviction.
Marsol also defended the law on rental deintervention, which she considers progressive and protective. She highlighted that the legislation includes measures to safeguard tenants, aiming to ensure that as many people as possible can remain in their homes.
Other topics discussed with the union included modifying access criteria to public housing and streamlining procedures. The minister believes that the positions on these issues are not as far apart, suggesting that an agreement could be achievable.
In terms of housing initiatives, Marsol reported that approximately 200 public flats have already been allocated, with an additional 25 in the allocation process. She also announced that around 60 homes in Ordino will soon be made available, and over thirty flats in Escaldes-Engordany are expected to be allocated by February.
The government's goal is to establish a public housing stock of around 500 units, with approximately 350 allocated or in the allocation process during this legislative term. Marsol emphasised the government's commitment to housing policies and the importance of maintaining dialogue, reminding that both parties have met several times and that it is not always possible to meet all demands.
