The local police sections of the CCOO and UGT unions are demanding increased investment in anti-terrorism measures - in security, in training and in coordination.
The unions note that the Balearic Islands are a "tourism region par excellence" but add that there have been arrests of jihadists with intentions of terrorist attack. They stress that police must have the means and the human resources to prevent any criminal act and to protect the citizens and tourists. The Spanish government, they add, has not allowed local police forces to be increased. In fact, the number of officers has been reduced because of the "excuse" of budget deficit.
The Balearic government doesn't escape censure. It has adopted rules that hinder the recruitment of new officers. The processes are long and costly. Despite an apparent government willingness to reform the local police coordination law, "a rapid solution to the serious problem of recruiting new officers cannot be found".
The unions refer to statements by the regional director for emergencies and the interior, Pere Perelló, following the attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils. He asked that all local police officers be available in case of emergency and for greater coordination with the state police forces.
This request was "irresponsible", say the unions. It is the national interior ministry which must coordinate security forces. It is not enough to send a letter to local police forces in order to carry it out.