Unions join demonstrations across Spain over fuel prices

The two main Spanish union confederations, CCOO and UGT, together with bodies representing the self-employed and consumers, took to the streets last month calling for changes in the energy market but not a cut in energy taxes.

The demonstrations, which took place in cities across Spain on 23 March with the slogan “curb prices and protect employment”, were an attempt to force changes in the energy market, allowing prices to be cut.

The latest inflation figures show that prices overall rose by 7.6% in the 12 months to February this year, the highest increase since 1986, and that this was largely driven by higher energy costs.

These rose by 44.3% over the same period.

However, the unions are not calling for a cut in taxes on energy. In the view of UGT general secretary Pepe Álvarez, this would reduce the income available for public services, but not tackle the root of the problem which he sees in price speculation.

CCOO leader Unai Sordo agrees, arguing a tax cut “will make the problem worse”.

As well as action on energy prices, the unions are calling on the government to break the link between rents and the consumer prices index.