Rubén Pérez calls for a “model transformation” in the safeguarding system and urges the commencement of transitional programmes for adult life.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 21 Mar. (Europa Press) –
The Secretary of State for Youth and Childhood, Rubén Pérez, stated this Friday that the reception of migrant minors, commencing in the upcoming months due to the reform decree of the immigration law, is “perfectly accepted.” However, he urged the autonomous communities to “forge consensus.”
In remarks to reporters following his participation in the ‘II Youth Convention of the Canary Islands Government’ in Tenerife, he noted that once the decree is validated in Congress, a conference for the youth sector will be convened to align positions and establish the progression of the new regulation.
He dismissed claims that the decree is political or ideological, emphasising that the measure has been propelled by three parties—PSOE, IU, and CC—with additional backing from Junts, which have sufficiently recognised the implications for Spanish society, human rights, “and the future of this nation.”
Pérez highlighted the necessity to establish a “consensus and working methodology” with all communities, paralleling what was agreed upon during the recent meeting in Tenerife, which sanctioned the transfer of 400 minors. “We aim to revive that spirit through this Royal Decree,” he stated.
He assured that there will be resources available, with a designated fund from the state exceeding 100 million Euros, expressing his hope that no one will claim they are “playing ideologically” when the objective is to “provide a solution to an issue that is purely humanitarian and focused on the future of this nation.”
Pérez opined that the priority is to determine the capacity of the safeguarding systems, as despite claims of being “all overwhelmed,” they have managed to accommodate an “important influx of Ukrainian individuals.” “State solidarity will respond,” he added.
He mentioned the importance of “considering the future” and not solely the immediate reception, since many minors will soon turn 18, and the development of transition programmes to adult life has yet to be addressed between the government and the autonomous communities.
In this regard, he emphasised that Spain faces a “chronic demand for labour,” particularly in fishing, noting that there are many young people from Senegal who have been welcomed, a nation “where fishing forms a significant productive activity for families.”
“Let’s leverage that synergy collaboratively and refrain from adopting political narratives from the far right that merely serve to gain votes between the right and the far right. This is not an economic issue; it is certainly not an issue of capacity,” he elaborated.
Pérez does not comprehend the notion of a saturated system when the budget for protection systems constitutes less than 1% of an autonomous budget, advocating for a “model transformation” akin to what transpired in the 80s and 90s concerning post-war orphanages.
“We are also worried about the lack of resources in certain safeguarding systems and the inadequate protection of workers within these systems, as highlighted by the case in Badajoz, and we must reach agreements in this significant area,” he stated, indicating a willingness to redirect budgetary expenditures within communities.
Defence expenditure must not undermine social resources
When questioned about the increase in defence expenditure, he remarked that the government maintains a “completely distinct stance within Europe,” asserting that “no security concern can overshadow the achievements and social spending” that have been established in recent years.
“We are a coalition government with two parties, but I believe we are in complete agreement,” he elaborated.
The Secretary of State noted that addressing security “also involves tackling 28% of child poverty, eradicating exclusion, and being clear about” the societal development model.
Consequently, he has “guaranteed” that social expenditure will not suffer, underscoring that the government’s position is “very coherent” within the broader EU context, while adding that young individuals, who have expressed reservations regarding military interventions, “would not comprehend” any reduction in resources.
