Gerardo Pisarello, the Comuns spokesperson in the Congress of Deputies and a Barcelona mayoral candidate, has presented his proposals for the city. He criticised the current administration led by Mayor Jaume Collboni and outlined key policies focusing on housing, public transport, and the role of the Guardia Urbana de Barcelona (GUB).
Mr Pisarello stated, “The current government lacks courage and imagination.” He believes Barcelona has lost its status as a “vanguard city” and aims to restore it. His primary focus remains on addressing the city’s housing crisis, which he described as the “fundamental problem.”
Tackling Barcelona’s Housing Crisis
Mr Pisarello proposes several measures to combat housing speculation. He advocates for a ban on speculative property purchases within the city. Additionally, he plans to launch an immediate public housing construction project. This initiative would utilise advanced technology to ensure sustainable development. He also suggests buying existing properties to strengthen the public housing stock. This strategy aims to prevent homes from falling into the hands of “vulture funds” or investment firms. These entities often divide properties and rent them at exorbitant prices, exacerbating the housing emergency.
He defended the previous municipal government’s record on housing. Mr Pisarello noted, “We were the municipal government that fought most in defence of the right to housing.” He highlighted challenges faced from the national government under Mariano Rajoy. He also mentioned powerful lobbies that resisted regulations and limits on their activities. He stressed the importance of citizen involvement and mobilisation to defend housing rights effectively.
Redefining the Guardia Urbana’s Role
Mr Pisarello also outlined a new direction for the GUB. He believes the municipal police force should not only pursue petty theft. He stated, “I want a Guardia Urbana that fights against real estate harassment and racist discrimination.” He also emphasised the GUB’s role in defending women against sexist harassment. This expanded focus aims to address broader safety and social justice issues within Barcelona’s communities.
Public Transport and Political Alliances
Regarding public transport, Mr Pisarello aims for free metro services by 2030. He also proposes freezing Bicing fees, preventing any increases. He opposes expanding Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Instead, he prioritises defending and enhancing public transport options for residents. Mr Pisarello returns to municipal politics after a decade, motivated by a desire to offer an alternative to what he calls a “reactionary wave.”
He seeks to build a broad left-wing front to counter the far-right in Spain. He has initiated conversations with Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC), Partit dels Socialistes de Catalunya (PSC), and Candidatura d’Unitat Popular (CUP). Mr Pisarello believes progressive groups must set aside their differences. This unity, he argues, will create an effective instrument to serve the working classes. He cited former Mayor Ada Colau as a significant reference. He said, “For me, it would be a source of pride for Barcelona to once again be a benchmark in feminist policies.” He also wants to continue defending the right to housing and connecting with residents in popular neighbourhoods.
National and Local Priorities
Mr Pisarello plans to retain his seat in the Congress of Deputies until 2027. He believes his national role allows him to advocate for housing rights and public transport resources benefiting Barcelona. He also criticised Junts per Catalunya’s stance on the rental extension decree. He urged them to support the measure, highlighting its benefit to many of their voters. The ongoing housing crisis, exacerbated by rising rental costs, requires exceptional measures, he concluded. His campaign continues to focus on improving housing, public transport, and green spaces in Barcelona’s popular neighbourhoods.
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Originally published by 20 Minutos Barcelona. Read original article.
