The political parties ERC (Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya) and PSC (Partit dels Socialistes de Catalunya) have decided to extend the processing time of the regional budget, aiming to create a more favorable negotiating atmosphere for the transfer of Personal Income Tax (IRPF) responsibilities. According to ERC spokesman Isaac Albert, this strategic delay is intended to facilitate discussions with the socialist party regarding the fiscal agreement. The current regional government, led by Salvador Illa, has moved forward with the budget proposal despite lacking sufficient backing, indicating a potential willingness to negotiate essential fiscal transfers.

In the recent meeting of the Political and Financial Policy Council, Albert highlighted this gathering as a critical moment for evaluating the viability of their proposals. While the ERC intends to present a comprehensive amendment against the budget, the party is simultaneously focused on extending the parliamentary processing deadlines to engage in constructive dialogue with the PSC. This approach indicates that ERC is willing to show flexibility as long as there is an earnest effort to resolve their concerns regarding tax responsibilities.

Further developments indicate that the Board and the Spokespersons’ Council have agreed to extend the deadlines for presenting amendments by an additional 20 days, which suggests a serious commitment to reaching an agreement. If the proposed budget is set to advance, a voting decision has been tentatively scheduled for April 24. This date may serve as a crucial milestone for negotiations, impacting the dynamics between these two political entities and their approach toward fiscal policy in the Catalan region.