Valencian socialist voices in the Senate are highlighting the need for greater investment in Alicante, noting that the province has consistently received a smaller share of national budgets in recent years. This perspective was voiced by Ana Martínez Zaragoza, who will coordinate a regional group within the Senate. Rocío Briones will lead Castellón as both senator and deputy speaker of the Socialist Parliamentary Group. Amparo Marco Gual represents Valencia, joined by senators Juan Antonio Sagredo and Cristina Moreno, and district senator Ximo Puig.
Briones welcomed the creation of the regional group Valencia Socialists, stressing that its purpose is clear: the Senate should function as a chamber that represents regional interests, with initiatives from the communities presented and debated there.
According to Briones, Valencian socialists in the Senate aim to carry the voice of the Valencian Community to Madrid. This objective comes at a pivotal moment, she noted. The group will also stand against what they see as the far right attack on regional values. Briones criticized actions associated with the Partido Popular led by Carlos Mazón, arguing these moves threaten coexistence, curb cultural freedoms, downplay gender violence, challenge climate action, and reduce public services in the Valencian Community. She added that the effort will focus on ensuring equality among Spaniards and recognizing regional distinctiveness.
Ana Martínez emphasized inclusive support for the entire Valencian Community. In Alicante, she highlighted specific infrastructure priorities, including the road widening in Torrevieja, the third lane near Crevillent, and improvements connected to the airport corridor. She also underscored ongoing discussions about water resources, desalination projects, and affordable refining options for farmers, aiming to reduce dependence on the Tajo-Segura transfer while maintaining it as a policy option.
Consell promises compensation for Alicante if budget gaps persist
Regional group formation is established by the Senate Regulations. The article defines regional or community parliamentary groups as formed by two or more Autonomous Communities, with representation from the territory defined by the relevant legislative authorities.
Under the same rules, each regional group must consist of at least three senators elected by voters within the territory designated by the regional legislative body. Procedures also cover participation in general assembly sessions, ensuring timely speaking turns for representatives from affected regional groups when matters concern one or more Autonomous Communities, with the President coordinating with the speakers of the relevant groups to enable their intervention.