Monday 23 May 2011

A Shift in Power in Vilanova i la Geltrú


The municipal elections of Vilanova i la Geltrú have - for the first time - given us a female Mayor: Neus Lloveras. During the last few minutes of the vote count CiU surpassed PSC and all nervosity was replaced by the chant "alcaldessa!". I am convinced that this town, after 12 years with socialist-led 'tripartit´-governments', will benefit from the coming changes, but unfortunately CiU will take over a town where the unemployment rate is clearly above the average in Catalonia.

The phenomenon of "tripartits", which was born in our town, can be considered to have reached its limits. Here in Vilanova, ERC has paid a heavy price and will not be represented in the City Council during the coming term of office. However, this loss should not be interpreted as a sign that the Catalan independence movement is losing strength. The grassroots movement CUP has jumped from one to three representatives.

The change has begun. Together we must make Vilanova a better town!

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