Madrid Health Minister accuses Spanish Health Minister of silencing participation

Fátima Matute, the Health Counselor for the Community of Madrid, has accused Spain’s Health Minister, Mónica García, of violating her right to participate during a meeting of the Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (SNS).

Matute characterized the incident as “institutional dictatorial cowardice,” claiming García prevented her from speaking during discussions regarding budgets and the distribution of funds to autonomous regions. Matute challenged the central government's claims regarding the allocation of 300 billion euros in additional funds, asserting that the reported distribution to regional governments is false.

Furthermore, Matute criticized García’s conduct during the meeting, describing it as defensive and aggressive. The Madrid official also noted that a decree regarding waiting lists failed to achieve an absolute majority due to a lack of official reports and preparation.