The importance of historical learning
The learning of the past is essential, especially when it comes to decisions that affect the health and well -being of the citizenry. Recently, the statements of Meritxell Roigé, a former mayor of Tortosa, on the construction of a new hospital in Terres de l’Ebre in a flood -prone area, have raised concerns that refer us to times when the priorities seemed to be more aligned with economic interests than with public safety.
Arguments that do not support analysis
Mrs. Roigé has defended her proposal, alleging that other buildings, such as housing and a boss, have been approved in the same lands. However, it is essential to emphasize that the needs of a hospital are radically different. A hospital is not just a building; It is a space designed to attend to patients with very specific and often critical needs.
The critical needs of a hospital
Hospitals house people with various pathologies, many of them with reduced mobility and dependent on life technology. In flood situations, the difficulty of evacuating these patients is considerable, and the consequences could be fatal. In addition, in an emergency scenario, the injured would need immediate access to the health center, which would be seriously committed if it were built in a flood area.
The excuse of past floods
Roigé has argued that there has been no significant floods in decades, and that the Ebro river is controlled differently in other areas. However, history teaches us that risks can appear unexpectedly. A recent example is that of the National Hospital of Paraplegics of Toledo, which, despite being located in an area that seemed safe, suffered floods that required the emergency evacuation of patients.
Climate change and the need for preparation
Science warns us about the intensification of meteorological phenomena, and the construction of key infrastructures in vulnerable areas is a mistake that we cannot afford. Ignoring these warnings would be a lack of responsibility on the part of our political leaders.
Political responsibility and justification of inaction
After so many years of governing his party in the City Council, Roigé seems to feel the need to justify the inaction in the construction of the hospital. It is important to remember that the paralysis of the project is due to decisions made at higher levels, such as those taken by Artur Mas. Unfortunately, during those years, there was no pressure to advance the construction of this essential equipment.
Looking to the future
The government of Salvador Illa firmly promises to advance the construction of the Terres de l’Ebre Hospital. We will make decisions based on technical criteria and security, and we will not allow political pressure to lead us to make a reckless construction. The health of the population must always be our priority.