The Catalan Government and Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC) are making significant progress in budget negotiations. These talks aim to approve the first Generalitat budgets of this legislative term. Key demands from ERC include a new orbital railway line and a joint investment company.
ERC has placed the orbital train line and a joint investment company at the centre of discussions. This follows the failure of the Investment Consortium in the Congress of Deputies. Isaac Albert, spokesperson for ERC, called these "key elements" for approving the public finances of the Generalitat. He stated in a press conference that negotiations are "advancing well." He added that "landing" these parallel issues is the next step. The approval of these budgets is essential for the stability and functioning of the Catalan administration.
Orbital Rail Project for Decentralised Connectivity
The proposed orbital railway line would connect Vilanova i la Geltrú, a coastal town south of Barcelona, and Mataró, a city on the Maresme coast. This new route would bypass Barcelona city centre entirely. It aims to create a more efficient and decentralised transport solution for residents across the metropolitan area and beyond. This project would use existing infrastructure, requiring "surgical investments" to link already built sections. The total investment for this railway is estimated between €4 billion and €5 billion over time. This infrastructure would be state-owned, forming part of the Rodalies network. However, it could also connect various municipalities via interchanges with Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat (FGC) lines. This connectivity would improve travel times and reduce reliance on central Barcelona for regional journeys. The orbital line has been a long-standing demand to improve regional cohesion.
Joint Investment Company for Catalan Development
The joint investment company would serve as a mechanism for state investments in Catalonia. It would involve both the Catalan Government and the Spanish Government. This structure aims to ensure consistent funding for critical projects within the region. Lluïsa Moret, First Deputy Secretary and spokesperson for the Partit dels Socialistes de Catalunya (PSC), confirmed that budget work is "very advanced." She noted that the agreed calendar and agenda between ERC and PSC are progressing. The parties expect to finalise an agreement by July, before the parliamentary session ends. Moret explained they are exploring viable and effective alternatives for this investment instrument. She added that they are working to implement and deploy such a mechanism. This joint approach seeks to overcome previous investment hurdles.
Mossos Infiltration Not Linked to Budget Talks
Meanwhile, a separate issue involves the infiltration of Mossos d'Esquadra agents into a teachers' assembly in Barcelona. This incident led the Catalan Government's investment partners to demand the resignation of Josep Lluís Trapero, the Director General of the police force. Despite these calls, ERC has explicitly separated this demand from the ongoing budget negotiations. Isaac Albert affirmed that pursuing budget approval is "absolutely compatible with political criticism." He described the police action as a "disaster." This separation allows budget talks to continue without being sidetracked by the police controversy. The incident has, however, sparked wider debate on police oversight.
Looking Ahead to July Agreement
The focus remains on incorporating these proposals into the budget project. Agreements requiring Spanish Government approval could also occur before the summer holidays. Both parties express optimism for a resolution. The successful approval of these budgets is critical for the current legislative term. It will shape key infrastructure and investment strategies across Catalonia. This includes significant improvements to regional transport and economic development. The July deadline provides a clear target for negotiators.
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Originally published by 20 Minutos Barcelona. Read original article.
