Residents Face Long Journeys for Basic Services

The retired members' group of CCOO in Alt Urgell has expressed 'indignation' over the closure of the Social Security office in La Seu d'Urgell, calling the situation 'intolerable' and warning it causes 'serious harm' to residents, businesses and Spanish workers living in Andorra. The office has been shut for weeks due to a staff member's sick leave, a recurring issue that has left the public without in-person support. Residents must now rely on online or telephone services, or travel to the nearest offices in Puigcerdà, Balaguer, Tremp or Tàrrega. For many, especially elderly or rural users, these options are impractical. The lack of public transport in the region compounds the difficulty, according to local officials.

Local Government and Unions Demand Action

The closure contradicts official rhetoric about supporting rural communities.

The La Seu d'Urgell town council formally requested the reopening of the office at the beginning of the month, addressing its appeal to José Crespín, the Spanish government's sub-delegate in Lleida, as well as other state authorities. The municipality stresses that as the capital of Alt Urgell and a key town in the High Pyrenees, La Seu cannot afford to lose essential public services. The CCOO group also criticises years of apparent disinterest in staffing the office with permanent personnel trained in National Institute of Social Security (INSS) and Treasury General procedures. They demand the facility be restored with stable staff capable of handling public inquiries and administrative processes.

Broader Access Issues Across the Province

The problem extends beyond La Seu. Users across Lleida province have reported difficulty securing appointments at local INSS offices, with some forced to book slots in La Seu when Balaguer or Tremp are fully booked. The sub-delegate acknowledged the strain, noting that demand rises in summer months, particularly from those finalising retirement after holiday periods. Despite weekly releases of appointment slots across the province’s five INSS offices, availability in more accessible lowland areas fills quickly. More remote offices, including La Seu, often retain availability longer, but only if they are open. Residents needing in-person assistance can check appointment availability via the Social Security information portal or contact the telephone service.

Reported by radioseu.cat, altaveu.com, segre.com, bondia.ad, Pirineus TV, Judit Pujol, ccoo.cat, seg-social.es.