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Santiago Council Backs Urgent Hiring as Overtime Standoff Cripples Police and Fire Coverage

The majority union has rejected the city's offer, described as a one‑cent raise, refusing to resume talks until a different proposal is presented.

Overview

  • All four political groups unanimously approved a motion to restore operational normality by urgently launching selection processes to fill 12 firefighter vacancies before year‑end.
  • The measure cites a state budget clause that allows creating additional posts needed to meet the Municipal Emergency Plan without being limited by the usual replacement cap.
  • CC.OO., which represents most police and firefighters, boycotted the November 26 meeting and maintains it will not negotiate unless the municipal proposal changes.
  • Mayor Goretti Sanmartín defends the plan as a 20% increase in overtime pay, giving examples of €3.69 more per extra hour and €6.45 more for night and holiday work, calling the amounts relevant.
  • Fire and police units remain below minimum staffing after a month of shortfalls, forcing reliance on nearby municipalities and limiting the ability to handle two simultaneous emergencies.