Government reaction to the strike proposal
Councilor Sílvia Paneque has expressed her disagreement with the initiative of the Tenants’ Union to call a rent strike in Catalonia, stating that this would not be the appropriate solution to address the housing problems affecting the population.
Government commitments on housing
Paneque recalled that the executive has a firm commitment to expanding the public housing stock with the construction of 50,000 new apartments by 2030, a measure that aims to ease the economic burden on families who struggle to maintain a home.
Goals for families
The Government seeks to ensure that families do not spend more than 30% of their income on rent, a challenge that is currently far from being achieved by many households.
The demonstration as a reflection of the housing emergency
The minister acknowledged that Saturday’s massive demonstration, which brought together a large number of participants, is a clear indicator of citizen discontent with the housing crisis that is currently being experienced in Catalonia.
Dialogue with the Tenants’ Union
Paneque has held meetings with representatives of the Union, where they have discussed the approval of measures that could include a sanctioning regime to regulate seasonal rentals, as well as other proposals to address the situation.
Possible solutions to the rental crisis
The minister mentioned that, in addition to measures to increase public housing, the Government considers price containment in areas with high demand and the mobilization of empty apartments as possible solutions.
Initiatives for young people
Paneque highlighted initiatives to facilitate the emancipation of young people, such as 20% aid for the acquisition of second-hand housing for those under 35, a measure that he hopes will help reduce inequality and improve access to housing.