Galicia tackles ambulance shortages while launching public housing conversions

The CCOO union in Lugo province has formally asked the councils of six PP‑run municipalities to press the Galician regional government for an urgent reinforcement of the 061 emergency service. The union says the area, home to more than 144,000 residents, currently relies on only two standard ambulances and a single medicalised ambulance operating 24 hours, causing long waiting times and risking lives in cases of heart attacks, strokes or serious accidents. It urges the upcoming tender for ground‑based medical transport to include at least one new 24‑hour ambulance and calls on local officials to stop remaining silent.

In parallel, the Xunta de Galicia announced a pilot programme to convert 26 vacant commercial premises in the city of Ourense into up to 32 affordable public‑rental homes. Up to €2 million will be allocated through the Institute of Galician Housing and Land (IGVS) to acquire and refurbish these spaces, addressing a shortage of land for new housing projects. The scheme aims to increase the supply of public housing, revitalise underused urban areas, and support social and economic regeneration in the city.