Financing Reform, Key to Catalan Welfare
The Minister of Economy of the Generalitat, Natàlia Mas, makes a prominent appeal to the Spanish government to address the reform of Catalan financing, stating that this is essential to maintain continuity. In an interview with El Punt Avui, Mas underlines the importance of a unique financing proposal that he presented recently and highlights the need for full tax collection as the key to long-term Catalan well-being.
Structural Change in the Catalan Economy
In addition, the minister points to the financing reform as a necessary ‘structural change’ in the Catalan economy, especially at a time of change of pace in European public finances. After periods with high deficit ratios over GDP, the Generalitat will have to restore community stability, according to Mas.
Tax Evasion and Disparity between Resources and Collection
Mas expresses concern about the leakage of taxes towards the State and the great disparity between the resources available to the Government and the collection in Catalonia. He highlights the strong economic growth and income generation in Catalonia, lamenting the accumulated fiscal deficit of more than 22,000 million euros.
Reprimands to the PSC
The councilor criticizes the refusal of the Spanish government and the Socialist Party of Catalonia to the singular financing proposal, considering it a grievance for the needs of Catalans. According to Mas, without a change in the collection and allocation of resources, those responsible in Madrid lose legitimacy to claim improvements in the health and education system.
Despite the agreements with Madrid, the minister highlights the importance of a ‘structural change’ in the economic field and insists on the need for Catalonia to achieve its economic sovereignty, stressing that progress should produce tangible results.