Cort authorizes the use of violence to remove residents from the old Palma prison

PalmaThe Palma City Council has advocated for the forced eviction of the old prison, where about 80 people currently live, even though the Bishopric of Mallorca has requested it be done in stages, as reported by Europa Press. The spokesperson for Cort, Mercedes Celeste, referred to Bishop Sebastià Taltavull's request after the Governing Board meeting. Taltavull maintains that the residents' reception must be done in a "personalized" way and in small groups to offer specific attention. "We cannot receive 100 people en masse because we wouldn't know where to put them," said the bishop, who reiterated his willingness to collaborate in assisting those affected. Despite the request, Cort has approved the forced eviction "through direct compulsion on individuals." That is, there is the green light to remove residents using physical force.

In contrast, Celeste advocated for carrying out the eviction by force, as authorized by Justice to the City Council. "We had to put a limit to this situation, and it was set when all administrative avenues were exhausted. At this moment, we have the judicial order that allows us to evict, and we must execute it," she said. The councilor pointed out that if any of the residents wish to contact the Bishopric to "find a way out," they can do so before the eviction. "We are keeping all channels open so that support can be provided, but in no way can we prevent the eviction from being carried out," she added.

However, according to City Council data, 70% of the residents in the old prison are in an irregular situation and cannot access municipal social services. "They can always be informed or referred. But we have already said many times that we cannot offer definitive solutions, such as housing. They can be given a temporary solution," commented the spokesperson.

Following the judicial authorization, the Cort Governing Board has authorized "forced execution through direct compulsion on individuals" to finalize the repossession process of the old prison. This Thursday, the local security board will meet, where how the eviction will be carried out, the actions, and the planned timelines will be discussed. "We cannot give the date because we don't know it. We have requested assistance from the State security forces and bodies, as it must be a joint effort. We will notify you," said the spokesperson. According to the mayor of Palma, Jaime Martínez, the eviction will take place in June.