A heated debate on Catalan funding
The recent discussion on the new funding model for Catalonia has generated controversy among PSOE members. In this context, the high representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, has provided a perspective that contrasts with that of the Minister of Finance, María Jesús Montero.
Borrell and the term ‘concert’
Borrell has provoked a significant reaction by stating that the fiscal agreement between the PSOE and ERC for Catalonia can be considered a ‘concert’. This statement challenges the use of the term by the PSOE, which has avoided mentioning it in order not to fuel the pro-independence discourse. ‘There is no need to be afraid of words’, said Borrell, stressing that the concept of ‘single funding’ is ambiguous.
The logic of a ‘concert’
According to Borrell, Catalonia’s tax collection system, which would involve retaining part of the revenue for autonomy and transferring another to the State, fits the definition of a concert. ‘It’s a technical agreement that, in essence, reflects a concert model’, he explained, although specifying that it is not a concert similar to the Basque.
Answers from Montero and other PSOE figures
In response to Borrell’s claims, Montero defended that the agreement is not a concert like that of the Basque Country, and pointed out that his criticisms could be influenced by his ‘peculiar relationship’ with Catalonia. This discrepancy has highlighted the internal tensions within the PSOE.
Regarding divergent opinions
Cristina Narbona, president of the PSOE, has expressed her respect for the opinions of Borrell and Montero, without clarifying whether the term ‘economic concert’ will be used in future negotiations. His stance indicates a desire to avoid divisions within the party, while keeping the debate open.
An uncertain future for Catalan financing
The debate on the financing of Catalonia continues without a clear resolution. Borrell indicated that, although Catalonia could obtain a significant increase in its income, it still remains to be defined which part of these resources will remain with the autonomy and which will be transferred to the State. This uncertainty leaves the future of the financing model in constant discussion.
With the internal debates and the various opinions, fiscal policy in Catalonia is an issue that will continue to generate discussions among PSOE members and in society as a whole.
