Equality Plan Backed by Majority
The Ajuntament d'Olot has formally approved the Pla d'Igualtat 2026–2029 during its September 2025 plenary session. The plan, led by Equality Councillor Susanna Pagès, will guide municipal policy on gender, social inclusion, and anti-discrimination over the next three years. Over 1,200 residents participated in a public survey conducted via the official city portal plaigualtat.olot.cat, helping to shape the plan’s priorities. Pagès described the initiative as a 'technical and humanitarian' approach to improving residents' lives. The plan is structured around six strategic axes, though the specific focus areas were not detailed in the official records. A technical monitoring commission will oversee implementation.
Political Support and Opposition
The proposal passed with 19 votes in favour and one against. Councillors from Activem Olot, PSC, and CUP voiced strong support. Jordi Rubio of Activem Olot said the party voted yes "out of responsibility, coherence, and because it is the city model we defend." Marina Alegre, PSC spokesperson, praised the plan’s comprehensive and cross-cutting approach. Bruna Cañada of CUP called the approval "a day to celebrate," offering her party’s full cooperation. Josep Planella, spokesperson for VOX, opposed the plan, calling it a "plan for inequality" rather than equality.
Municipal Mortuary Proposal Rejected
In the same session, a separate motion by CUP to create a municipal funeral home did not secure majority support. Estanis Vayreda, Olot’s Finance Councillor, announced that a feasibility study would be commissioned despite the motion’s failure. While PSC voted in favour and VOX opposed, Junts and Activem Olot suggested the service could be developed through a private operator. Esquerra Republicana abstained.
Tensions in Council Chamber
The plenary session saw moments of tension, particularly during debates between PSC, CUP, and the governing team. These exchanges underscored divisions on social policy, though the Equality Plan itself attracted cross-party consensus. The final decision on the Equality Plan reflects a participatory process, as outlined in the city’s open governance documentation, which states that citizen-defined projects must be implemented without administrative veto.
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