Urdaibai Law reform sparks debate in Basque Parliament

Debate is intensifying regarding the reform of the Urdaibai Protection and Organization Law. While a legislative proposal submitted by the EAJ and PSE in the Basque Parliament aims to simplify administrative procedures, critics argue that the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve requires a specific, participatory legislative process rather than being absorbed into a general administrative reform.

Concerns have been raised in the Basque Parliament regarding the ecological integrity of the reserve. Aitor Galarza highlighted the vulnerability of bird habitats to human pressure and cumulative usage, suggesting that any permitted activities must be weighed against the ecosystem's carrying capacity. Additionally, Manu Monge emphasized that protecting a reserve requires robust planning, resources, and coordination rather than just legal status.