PP, Vox y Junts se unen para tumbar la ley de creación de la Agencia Estatal de Salud Pública | Sociedad | EL PAÍS

Key Players and Outcome

The Spanish Congress rejected a bill to establish a State Agency for Public Health (AESAP). The vote saw an unexpected alliance of the Popular Party (PP), Vox, and Junts per Catalunya, against the governing coalition of PSOE and Sumar. The final tally was 167 votes in favor, 176 against, and 2 abstentions.

Reasons for Opposition

The PP's opposition stemmed from dissatisfaction with the government and procedural issues. Vox vehemently opposed the bill, viewing the agency as a platform for political patronage. Junts' opposition was primarily based on their stance against any Spanish national institution.

Further fueling the debate were references to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the 8M protests and the management of deaths in Madrid's nursing homes, which were cited by the opposition.

Reactions and Future Implications

The Health Minister, Mónica García, described the outcome as "a monumental irresponsibility." The Spanish Society of Public Health and Health Administration (SESPAS) expressed deep disappointment. The governing parties indicated their intention to reintroduce the bill, while the opposition's actions have ignited significant debate and criticism.

• PP and Vox criticized the agency's potential cost and questioned its independence and possible director.
• Junts opposed it due to its national nature, creating tension with other Catalan parties.
• The bill's failure underscores deep political divisions in Spain.