Vigo: BNG criticizes local government over poverty and housing

The Bloque Nacionalista Galego (BNG) has criticized the political leadership in Vigo, accusing the PSOE and PP of “sectarismo” (sectarianism) for failing to cooperate on social issues. BNG spokesperson Xabier P. Igrexas claimed that both major parties rejected a motion aimed at addressing poverty and homelessness, specifically opposing the creation of a Social Emergency Committee to coordinate urgent action.

In addition to social exclusion concerns, the BNG is questioning the effectiveness of Vigo’s new General Municipal Urban Development Plan (PXOM). One year after its implementation, the party argues the plan has failed to resolve the city's housing crisis. While Mayor Abel Caballero previously presented the PXOM as a solution to provide affordable housing, the BNG notes that demand for protected housing has doubled and rental prices remain high, with 60% of available homes costing over 950 euros per month.

Igrexas further alleged that the urban plan has prioritized speculative projects, such as luxury developments, rather than addressing the needs of the 5,000 people on housing waiting lists or the approximately 60,000 residents at risk of poverty.