Junts MP Isidre Gavín has formally questioned the Spanish government this week. He raised concerns about alleged widespread fraud involving fake medical certificates used by Rodalies train drivers. Gavín also highlighted the suspension of a crucial railway expansion project. These issues affect Catalonia’s vital commuter service. Parliamentary questions followed reports from La Vanguardia Catalonia detailing both matters.
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The first issue concerns approximately 30 train drivers from Renfe, the National Network of Spanish Railways. These drivers operate Rodalies services. They allegedly used “fake medical certificates” to secure paid leave. According to Junts, these individuals reportedly manipulated genuine medical documents. This possibly involved recently recruited drivers. They extended their stays outside Catalonia between rest periods and holidays.
Rodalies management detected these alleged fraudulent activities in August 2025. They subsequently escalated the cases to Renfe’s Catalan and national presidencies. Junts has demanded specific data from the government. They seek information on certificates processed in 2025, staff composition, and new hires. Junts also wants data on detected fraudulent cases, disciplinary actions, or dismissals initiated. They additionally seek the status of these proceedings and measures adopted to prevent future fraud.
Rail Project Suspension Causes Delays
Gavín also registered questions concerning the Railway Infrastructure Administrator (Adif)’s decision. This decision suspends the contract for quadrupling tracks on the R2 Sud line. The affected section runs between Castelldefels and El Prat. The Official State Gazette (BOE) published this suspension on 25 March. This action necessitates restarting administrative procedures. It will inevitably cause further delays to the project.
The suspension will significantly affect users of the R2 Sud line. This line is a crucial artery connecting Barcelona with coastal towns. Junts has called for clarification on the technical and administrative reasons behind the decision. They also demand accountability for any political or tactical responsibilities. The party seeks details on potential cost overruns or compensation. They also want a new timeline for drafting, tendering, starting, and completing the works.
Junts also submitted written questions to the Senate. They urged the central government to explain the reasons for this withdrawal. The party considers this project “key” for the “good functioning of the service” across Catalonia. Rodalies is the regional commuter rail service vital for daily travel across Catalonia. It serves hundreds of thousands of residents.
Future Implications for Commuters
The Spanish government is now expected to provide official responses. These will address Junts’ detailed inquiries. These incidents highlight ongoing challenges for Rodalies. This includes service reliability and infrastructure development. Commuters across Catalonia await clarity on both the alleged fraud and the future of the critical R2 Sud expansion.
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Originally published by La Vanguardia Catalonia. Read original article.
