Junts spokesperson Miriam Nogueras accused Generalitat President Salvador Illa on Wednesday, 13 May, of "importing the Spanish police model" into Catalan schools. This strong criticism follows reports of two Mossos d'Esquadra officers infiltrating a teachers' strike assembly.
Ms Nogueras stated that Catalan schools need more teachers and funding, not surveillance. She posted on X, stating, "Teachers are not spied on. They are listened to and respected." The infiltration incident involved officers attending a meeting where teachers prepared for strike days.
Ms Nogueras urged President Illa to "stand firm in Madrid and not return without the money that belongs to Catalans." She claimed this money "gets lost in Madrid's black hole." She also accused him of acting as a delegate for Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. She added that Catalan teachers are reportedly the lowest paid in Spain and Europe. This situation affects the future of children across Catalonia.
Call for Teacher Support
The Junts leader emphasised the importance of supporting educators. "Politicians must stand up for them. For all of them. Even if it means risking our own necks," she declared. Teachers, she argued, should focus on teaching under dignified conditions. This political dispute highlights ongoing tensions between different parties regarding regional governance and resource allocation. The Generalitat, Catalonia's autonomous government, oversees education and public safety.
Impact on Catalan Education
The debate over police presence in schools and teacher pay has significant implications for Catalonia's education system. Residents, including expat families, rely on a well-funded and respected teaching profession. The Mossos d'Esquadra is Catalonia's autonomous police force. Their role in monitoring teacher assemblies has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties like Junts. This incident adds to broader discussions about civil liberties and government oversight within the region.
The accusation from Junts will likely fuel further political debate within the Catalan Parliament. It also brings renewed attention to the working conditions and remuneration of teachers across Catalonia.
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Originally published by Europa Press Barcelona. Read original article.
