Puig acknowledges that resolving the transfer issue remains distant, yet the only viable path forward is to bring the positions closer together, seeking practical steps that bridge gaps rather than widen them.
Did Consell show firmness in defending the Tajo-Segura transfer? No. The relevant facts stand clear. On some points, crossing the boundaries of the Congregation repeatedly can be challenging, and there are even lighthearted programs where these issues are made visible.
Has the Head of Government shown initiative in the Tajo-Segura transfer area? During his most recent visit, the President affirmed that the Valencian Community will have water in perpetuity, and that promise will be honored. It is essential to observe how the transfer unfolds over time, but the investments made by the Government carry significant weight. What cannot be done about water is embracing a pro-integrity approach proposed by the right. The aim is to keep the Tagus river robust and healthy, while there is disagreement on how ecological flow should be measured and how the transition should proceed. It is agreed that desalinated water should be produced.
Desalinated water currently carries higher costs, partly because the state subsidy has been removed. The Government has guaranteed that this subsidy will be approved within the month, and readiness exists to finalize it if needed, but the base must be provided by the Government.
There was a missing presence at the gathering called by the water users. Could such absences affect Alicante’s standing in the state? The water users in Alicante remain fully aware of the commitments, and there is no appetite for further demonstrations in favor of water.
What happened to the minutes of the National Water Council? The speaker does not know all details. What is clear is what is authorized, namely the ninth provision. The Government may make another decision and issue a provision that can be partly accepted and partly rejected. An important update for 2025 has disappeared from the conversation.
Do they feel deceived? There was disappointment.
Has there been a discussion with Pedro Sánchez about these matters? A conversation with the vice president occurred. The other side holds a different view, but in terms of solving problems, dialogue remains the guiding principle. Determination is not about shouting louder but about finding solutions grounded in shared beliefs.
After recent meetings with the minister, is this solution still plausible? It remains a long road. There is no obvious alternative beyond trying to bring the transfer points closer together.
A recent ruling requires the Confederación del Júcar to grant equivalent rights to Alicante and Valencian irrigators. What is the Council’s stance? In the realm of case-specific judgments, relevance and respect for the facts take precedence.
What does that translate to in practice? It depends on the sentence. In the Júcar-Vinalopó case, notable progress has been achieved. It marked the first time in history that such a major water transfer occurred, underscoring the region’s evolving water strategy.
How can Alicante be said to receive the worst-funded year in the General Government Budget again? This view is misleading and contradicts the Generalitat’s outlook in recent years. This year, a significant portion of the Group’s investment will be directed toward Alicante, maintaining a balanced approach among the three provinces with a particular emphasis on Alicante.
The Innovation Department has not achieved a rise in Alicante within three and a half years. What went wrong? Certain areas within the department have seen positive implementation, especially in digital and innovation initiatives, though reconciliation costs exist. The goal is to connect these efforts more directly to the city itself. It represents a historic step for decentralization, being the first ministry outside Valencia in four decades, a bold move that comes with a cost. It is also important to acknowledge that this ministry serves the entire Community, not just Alicante.
Ana Barceló, a PSPV mayoral candidate in Alicante, is seen as a strong presence. Is she stepping away from the role? There was an effort to promote a candidate who could be the best fit for Alicante. The commitment to Alicante remains absolute, and although an election campaign is not underway, efforts continue to engage with many people and groups. There is genuine trust in Ana Barceló, with the expectation she will serve all residents of Alicante well.