Catalonia's Interior Department has recognised numerous police actions during recent teacher strikes across a score of Catalan municipalities, including Lleida, Tàrrega, and El Pont de Suert. This information comes from a parliamentary response to the CUP, diffused by the Ustec union, detailing Mossos d'Esquadra officers carrying out identifications, filing complaints, and drawing up official reports.
The Ustec union considers the report particularly serious because, according to them, "Interior recognises that there is no specific document with the criteria by which the Mossos allow or deny road closures." The union further states that "the most scandalous thing is that many actions are not described by violence, but by uncommunicated demonstrations, road closures, or route modifications."
Union Demands Explanations
Ustec, the majority union for teachers, is demanding immediate explanations from President Salvador Illa this weekend. They also call for an end to any surveillance or infiltration practices against teacher assemblies and the reopening of negotiations.
In Lleida city, the demonstration with the most police tension occurred on 11 February. This was the first in the latest series of strikes. Teachers gathered outside the territorial education services on Pica d'Estats street. Union representatives attempted to enter the building to speak with the delegate.
Numerous Mossos anti-riot brigades initially blocked entry, leading to scuffles and some banners being thrown. However, spokespeople were eventually allowed inside. In contrast, during the 21 March demonstration, which was less crowded due to a unified call for action in Barcelona, the Mossos stated they did not file any reports because demonstrators did not breach orders against invading roadways.
Future Negotiations and Oversight
The union's call for renewed negotiations suggests ongoing disputes between teachers and the government. The demand for an end to surveillance practices also points to a desire for greater transparency and trust between authorities and striking workers. Future developments will likely depend on the government's response to Ustec's demands and any subsequent discussions regarding protest guidelines and police conduct.
