The mayor expressed concern over the unfavorable criterion communicated by the Ministry of Equality, arguing that the need for family reconciliation does not cease when the school day begins. "A program created to facilitate reconciliation cannot become a barrier for families needing to reconcile. We ask the Ministry to respect the purpose of the Corresponsables Plan," stated Del Cid, requesting that the plan's objectives be upheld.
Del Cid questioned the rejection of the project, communicated on September 30th following an inquiry from the Junta de Andalucía, and argued that the service coinciding with school hours should not, by itself, be a reason to deny its funding. "The need to reconcile does not disappear when children enter school. If a mother or father has to leave work to attend to a child's hygiene or personal care need, the problem arises at that moment. Offering a solution after classes end does not resolve what that family requires," she pointed out.
The City Council proposes a professionalized municipal service focused on children's autonomy and hygiene needs, aimed at facilitating work-life balance. The assigned staff would not perform teaching duties, academic reinforcement, or assist teaching staff, nor would they substitute for educational administration personnel. "We are not asking for teachers to be funded or for school staff shortages to be covered. We are asking for a family need to be addressed," clarified the mayor.
The mayor emphasized that these care services could be provided in suitable spaces outside the classroom, with necessary authorizations and coordination, and through the municipal service's own organization. The council is willing to specify its operation and adapt professional profiles to the Corresponsables Plan requirements to ensure no educational functions are replaced.
"We are prepared to detail all necessary technical aspects. What we ask of the Government is the same willingness to find a solution," added Del Cid, stressing the importance of making life easier for families.
Finally, she requested the involvement of the Ministry of Equality, in coordination with Education and the Junta de Andalucía, to review the project's feasibility. If the criterion against its funding is maintained, she asked for a reasoned response identifying specific impediments and allowing for the study of alternatives, defending the service as a response to a genuine need.
