In an interview with La Mañana, Junqueras expressed his expectation that the PSC, given its inability to comply with the IRPF pact, would propose measures that significantly benefit Catalonia. This statement comes amidst budgetary negotiations and strained relations between the two political parties.
“"Love is with Catalonia, and there is no agreement because the PSC does not want to fulfill its commitments."
The republican leader defended the importance of the IRPF for Catalonia and reiterated that ERC always champions the country's interests. He pointed out that if the PSC cannot meet this commitment, it must seek other avenues to ensure a successful budgetary negotiation, with proposals that are 'important for Catalonia'.
Regarding priorities for the Ponent region, Junqueras highlighted the necessity of massive housing rehabilitation plans for both villages and county capitals, as well as degraded neighborhoods in cities like Lleida. He proposed a Neighborhood Plan and a Village Plan to retain population and assist young people and the elderly.
In terms of mobility, he underscored the importance of improving railway connections from Lleida to its surroundings (Balaguer, les Borges, Mollerussa, Tàrrega, and Cervera) and to Manresa. He also mentioned passenger and freight connections towards Igualada and Martorell to link with the Port of Barcelona.
Another key point for ERC is the modernization of the Canal d'Urgell, considering it a fundamental asset for the country and for ensuring the continuity of agricultural and livestock operations in Lleida, which account for over 7% of the local GDP. Junqueras insisted that this modernization benefits not only irrigators but all of Catalonia, and deserves the effort of all institutions, including the Spanish Government.
