Ombudsman’s Refusal to Align with Equality Efforts: Mas Accuses Ministry of Blocking an Investigation
The ongoing clash between the Ministry of Equality and Inclusive Policies and the Cooperative Service to People in Addiction within the Valencia community, known as Aerte, has intensified once more as tensions surge to new levels. The Valencian Ombudsman, also called Sindic de Greuges, reported that the vice-chair, led by Aitana Mas, announced a decision not to pursue two investigative efforts proposed by the statutory body. The objection centers on a belief that the Ombudsman would breach its own statutes, a position the association labeled as incompatible with the actions of the autonomous ombudsman. The Office for Inclusive Policies thus rejected the union’s attempt to advance two complaints for review.
The argument also notes that a letter from the employer Aerte, while thorough, merely presents a potential complaint that acknowledges negative consequences not presently occurring, and argues it would be reckless to assume they will arise in the future. It claims the organization speaks for people it does not truly represent. The future described by the global lobby is cited as a point of concern.
Ombudsman’s Refusal to Pursue Equality Matters: Mas Accuses Ministry of Blocking an Investigation
The origin of the dispute lies in Consell Decree 102/2022 dated August 5, which replaced the 2017 decree on recognizing dependence levels and access to public services and financial benefits. In response, the ministry argued that the association’s complaint indicates that potential users of sheltered housing for mental health purposes could be harmed, though the article does not present supporting data or individual cases.
In the Inclusive Policies arena, it is noted that the Generalitat previously won a lawsuit brought by Aerte over the 2017 decree, and the review of the 2022 decree remains under consideration and is widely discussed in both media and among the association’s circles.
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The grounds cited for inadmissibility rely on legal constraints and force majeure, but critics also argue that the complaints conceal Aerte’s dual aims. The challenge brought to TSJ involves a very injunction-friendly request and partial suspension of the decree’s enforceability, aligning with the concern highlighted by the Ombudsman to be processed.
This point did not receive support from the interest group and was perceived as overlooked within the department. The ministry, led by Aitana Mas from Alicante, expresses a desire to resolve one of the open fronts with the network of around 200 social health centers spread across three Valencia Community regions.