Almost a year ago, Pedro Sánchez announced an electoral advance on May 29, 2023. The consequences of this announcement are still felt today, especially in the political sphere. However, there were also other, less significant effects that impacted specific groups within the population. One such consequence was the paralysis of a new statute for forest firefighters that had already been approved by the Council of Ministers. Now, a year later, the firefighters themselves have organized demonstrations in front of Congress to denounce the ongoing stagnation of the situation. They are hoping for a quick resolution, but they are also prepared for further mobilizations, including the possibility of a strike.
Carlos Martin, a member of the BRIF (Forest Fire Reinforcement Brigade) and representative of forest firefighters in Workers’ Commissions, acknowledges that they would prefer not to have to resort to such measures. However, he emphasizes that their goal is to ensure that the process does not remain stagnant and that they can move forward with necessary reforms. The main issue at the heart of the problem is the job category for forest firefighters. Currently, there is no official designation for this role, despite specific functions being outlined in royal decrees. This results in forest firefighters falling under a broad range of up to 19 different job categories, leading to complications in their employment and retention of professionals.
In February 2023, the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge, along with the Ministry of Finance and Public Function, approved draft laws aimed at establishing a legal framework for forest firefighters and environmental agents. The goal was to ensure consistent working and professional conditions for these groups across the country. However, the electoral advance delayed the finalization of these measures, leaving forest firefighters without recognition of their functions during the summer fire season. Despite efforts to move the process forward, delays in the parliamentary approval of the legislation have frustrated forest firefighters and led to calls for immediate action.
Representatives of forest firefighters have engaged with various parliamentary groups to expedite the legislative process, but ongoing delays have fueled skepticism and disappointment among the affected professionals. The prospect of further delays has prompted unions to organize demonstrations and call on lawmakers to prioritize the approval of the forest firefighter legislation. As summer approaches and the risk of wildfires increases, forest firefighters are increasingly concerned about the lack of progress in securing legal recognition and support for their vital work.