Catalan president Salvador Illa has gathered his cabinet at the Món Sant Benet monastery in Sant Fruitós de Bages, Central Catalonia, for a weekend retreat. This marks the fourth time Illa has convened his ministers at a Benedictine monastery since becoming president in August 2024, following the 'ora et labora' (pray and work) principle he introduced to his government.
The retreat comes after what officials described as the most challenging months of his mandate. The government has faced significant setbacks, including a crisis in the Rodalies commuter rail service, strikes across sensitive sectors like education and healthcare, and the withdrawal of the proposed budget.
Aligning Government Priorities
From Món Sant Benet, President Illa seeks to align his team and accelerate improvements in public services. The objective is to achieve a change of direction by summer and secure approval for the new budget.
The choice of a monastery for these retreats reflects Illa's consistent approach to governance, emphasising focused work and reflection away from the daily political fray. These sessions are designed to foster unity and strategic planning among ministers, particularly after periods of intense pressure and public scrutiny.
