The march, which started at Plaça del Treball and concluded at Plaça Paeria, served to warn about the economic repercussions of international conflicts, especially the war in the Middle East, which is increasing diesel prices for Lleida's agricultural sector. Concurrently, the CGT and CNT unions organized an alternative march with about fifty participants.
“"Lleida's provincial agreements are below the rest of Catalonia. They must already consider that life here is cheaper, but it is not, by any means."
A UGT spokesperson in Lleida expressed concern about the existing wage gap in the province, where salaries are lower than in the rest of Catalonia. They cited the passenger transport sector as an example, where drivers earn between 400 and 500 euros less despite the complex orography of the region. They also stressed that, although housing in Lleida may be slightly more affordable, it does not align with salaries, leading to a large portion of income being spent on rent, a situation deemed unsustainable.
“"Wages must be adequate. By no means, just because we are from Lleida, should salaries be lower."
Meanwhile, a CCOO spokesperson in Lleida addressed the difficult situation of the agricultural model due to rising fuel prices. They insisted on the need to equalize wages and recalled the clandestine nature of May Day celebrations during the Franco regime. They called for unity among left-wing forces to confront the threat of far-right parties, which already have representation in institutions like the Lleida City Council.
Despite the demands regarding war, the rising cost of living, and the housing crisis, participation in the main demonstration was notably low this year. Representatives from political parties such as the PSC, with a delegation led by the mayor of Lleida, Fèlix Larrosa, and ERC, with provincial deputies and the group's spokesperson in the Paeria, Jordina Freixanet, were present.
