Alícia Romero, the Minister of Economy of Catalonia, has issued a stark warning regarding the urgency of passing the regional budgets for 2026. She highlighted that the failure to approve these budgets could lead to significant challenges for the Generalitat, especially concerning funding commitments that include salary increases for teachers and the Mossos d'Esquadra (Catalan police). The upcoming decision by ERC (Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya), scheduled for this Friday, will be critical in determining whether the budget legislation proceeds or is stalled entirely. Romero's comments underscore the high stakes of this political decision.

Romero expressed her willingness to incorporate specific demands from ERC into the budget discussions, highlighting an openness to negotiation and collaboration. However, she also made it clear that there is little room for discussion outside the budget framework, emphasizing that any obstruction of the budgeting process would have severe consequences for public service funding in Catalonia. This situation is set against a backdrop of ongoing political tensions in the region, where budgetary approval has become a contentious issue.

The statement reflects broader concerns within the Catalan government about financial stability and the capacity to fulfill previously made commitments. If budgets are not approved, it could lead to a reliance on budget extensions that do not allow for new provisions, jeopardizing payroll increments and other essential public services. The outcome of this week will be pivotal in shaping not only the financial landscape of Catalonia but also the political dynamics between the involved parties, particularly with the ERC, which plays a crucial role in the region's governance.