The impact of a scandal that removes Catalonia
Catalonia is in a moment of great turbulence after a child prostitution network has been uncovered related to a minor under the tutelage of the Generalitat. This scandal has put the Directorate General for Child and Adolescent Care (DGAIA), which is now being investigated for various irregularities that suggest a corruption system in its operation during the time ERC was at the helm.
Political parties’ reactions
In the face of this situation, both the PP and Vox have demanded the Government to appear before Parliament to provide clarifications and ensure that justice will be done. The PSC, on the other hand, has taken immediate measures, including the opening of a file on the case of the minor involved, and has announced the appearance of the Minister of Social Rights.
Difficulties for the PSC
The PSC is in a complicated position, as the case affects its government partner, ERC. To date, ERC has been attempted to defend the opposition offensive, but the scandal has grown, and the Government has been forced to take actions to prevent the situation from being unsustainable.
Irregularities detected
Last year, the Audit Office revealed serious anomalies in the management of contracts and aid by the DGAIA during the period 2016-2020, under the control of ERC. This public entity, in charge of the protection of minors, has been accused of managing irregular contracts with private organizations and granting help to young people who did not meet the requirements.
The gravity of the case of the minor
Recently, the case of a minor who was the victim of systematic violations by a pedophile network has come to light. In addition, it has been found that the DGAIA allowed its escape with a significantly larger individual, revealing serious failures in the minor protection system.
Immediate action demands
Juan Fernández, spokesman for the PP in Parliament, has expressed his outrage through social networks, noting that “the system of protection of minors in Catalonia has failed alarmingly”. He has asked counselor Mónica Martínez Bravo to cancel his plans and appear to give explanations.
The Vox positioning
Vox has been monitoring this case from the beginning, criticizing the PSC government’s reaction and warning that they are late to address a problem that should never occur. Spokesman Ignacio Garriga has denounced the political use of the DGAIA and emphasized the need for a forceful response.
The request of together
Together, it has requested the creation of a research commission to clarify the events related to the DGAIA. Despite its initial ambiguity, the party has decided to join the demand for exhaustive investigation, recognizing the opportunity to prejudice ERC and the government of Salvador Illa.
The implications for the current government
As more irregularities related to contracts during previous governments come to light, both together and ERC are in a delicate situation. Their relationship and decisions made in the past could influence their response to the current scandal.
Final reflections on the situation
The DGAIA scandal has highlighted the failures of a system that should protect the most vulnerable. Catalan society is to see how events will evolve and what measures will be taken to restore confidence in the institutions responsible for the protection of minors.
