The management of the municipal company BSM confirmed that the decision involves foregoing approximately 78,000 euros in revenue. During an appearance before the Ecology, Urban Planning, Mobility and Housing commission, it was argued that the event meets the criteria of projection, proportionality, and exceptionality required for a public interest concession.
The local government denied that this was a discretionary decision or a gesture of institutional adherence, but rather an opportunity for the revitalization and reputation of Barcelona. They explained that preparations are being coordinated to ensure the visit proceeds normally.
“"The concession meets all legal and technical criteria to be considered of public interest."
The measure has sparked debate among municipal groups. While some factions criticized the decision as a disguised donation to the Catholic Church, other groups defended it as ordinary institutional management, criticizing the parties that requested the hearing.
