A coalition has reviewed the budgetary agreement reached with the Foral Council of Álava for 2026. The coalition asserts that the pact has facilitated progress in areas such as residences, housing, cooperation, mental health, public transport, and social policies, while also pointing out that certain commitments are still pending.
A spokesperson for the coalition in the General Assemblies of Álava has estimated the degree of compliance with the agreement to be between 40% and 50%. As explained, the pact involves mobilizing over 30 million euros over three years and has necessitated continuous monitoring with various departments of the Council.
“"We are proud of the progress made, but we are not satisfied yet."
The primary achievement highlighted by the coalition is the labor agreement for workers in private residences in Álava. This agreement is linked to the pressure exerted during budget negotiations and the mediation of the Foral Council. Valid from 2025 to 2028, the agreement includes a 32.5% salary increase, a basic salary of 1,500 euros per month by 2028, and reduced working hours, among other improvements. Residences meeting the requirements can submit applications until May 26, with a budget of 10.4 million euros allocated for this block between 2026 and 2028.
In the housing sector, two calls for proposals have been launched: one for local entities to purchase and rehabilitate housing, and another to support the rehabilitation of private housing for social rental. Additionally, a program to rent out homes of elderly individuals entering residences is planned, with intentions to extend it to Vitoria-Gasteiz.
Regarding mental health, the Council plans to hold a congress in June, whose conclusions will form the basis for the first foral plan on the subject, with a budget of 150,000 euros for 2026. In international cooperation, aid for development actions has increased, and 80,000 euros have been allocated to UNRWA for humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people. Furthermore, the Economic Benefit for Personal Assistance will increase by 7.67% from July 1, benefiting 533 people in Álava.
For public transport, an agreement to extend free travel to students under 20 years old is expected to be finalized in May. Work is also underway on a plan to reinforce weekend and night lines, and a study for new railway stops in Vitoria-Gasteiz, covering areas like Salburua, Zabalgana, and Jundiz, is included. Finally, the withdrawal of honorary titles granted by the Council to individuals linked to the Franco dictatorship has also been highlighted.
