Catalan President Salvador Illa announced an "immediate" agreement on airport governance for Catalonia during a parliamentary control session. He stated the Catalan government would secure a presence in the decision-making and planning of major transport infrastructures.
Generalitat Seeks Key Role
Mr Illa conveyed that work on this matter is "well underway" and will respect existing legal frameworks. Josep Maria Jové, spokesperson for Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC), pressed for the establishment of a Catalan Airport Authority. This authority would enable the Generalitat to lead the management of the region's airport system. "The horizon? What we also set in the agreements, I believe it will be quite immediate," Mr Illa stated. He responded to Mr Jové's query about the timeline for an airport governance pact.
Demands for a Catalan Airport Authority
Mr Jové specifically demanded a comprehensive Catalan airport system. This system would encompass all airports in the territory, regardless of their current ownership. He insisted the Generalitat must hold a "determining role" in governance for the first time. Additionally, he advocated for the Catalan Airport Authority to consolidate all executive powers in the aeronautical and airport sector. This body would provide the "necessary technical muscle" to spearhead system management.
Impact on Barcelona-El Prat and Regional Transport
This push for greater regional control over key infrastructure, such as Barcelona-El Prat Airport, reflects ongoing debates about Catalonia's self-governance. Barcelona-El Prat serves over 50 million passengers annually, making it a critical hub for tourism and business. Enhanced local control could allow for more tailored development strategies. It could also ensure better integration with regional transport networks, benefiting residents and visitors alike. The current management of major Spanish airports, including Barcelona-El Prat, falls under Aena, a state-owned company.
Future of Catalan Transport Governance
The anticipated agreement aims to formalise the Catalan executive's involvement in these critical transport decisions. This development could significantly reshape how Catalonia's major transport hubs operate in the future. It marks a crucial step towards greater regional autonomy in infrastructure management.
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Originally published by VilaWeb Feed. Read original article.
