Proposal to Offset Losses from Preventive Closures

Daniel Sirera, president of the PP municipal group in Barcelona, has proposed that businesses which close this Sunday 1st November due to security fears be allowed to open exceptionally on Sunday 1st November to recover lost revenue. The proposal comes amid concerns of further disturbances following looting, vandalism, and attacks on police officers last weekend. Sirera argued that businesses should not bear a double penalty: "They cannot pay twice for violence, first by closing their doors out of fear, and then by losing income on one of the busiest days of the week." The measure would be voluntary and must comply with existing labour regulations, according to Sirera.

Call for Coordinated Security Reinforcement

Alongside the commercial proposal, Sirera has urged Mayor Jaume Collboni and Generalitat President Salvador Illa to implement an extraordinary and coordinated security operation involving the Mossos d'Esquadra and the Guardia Urbana. He called for special attention to be given to commercial zones and potential flashpoints, and for businesses in at-risk areas to receive advance information so they can take protective measures.

This time they will not be able to say they did not know what could happen.

Sirera warned both administrations that they must anticipate incidents and ensure the safety of residents, businesses, and officers. He stated he would demand political accountability if preventable incidents occur again.

Political Context and Next Steps

The request follows widespread disruption last weekend and forms part of an ongoing political debate over public order responsibilities shared between the Barcelona City Council and the Generalitat. While the PP frames the Sunday opening as a practical remedy, the final decision rests with the city and regional governments, which have yet to respond officially. Businesses in central Barcelona are already preparing for possible closures on Saturday afternoon, with some describing their state as "scared" in media reports.

Sources: Metrópoli, cronicacataluna.es.