THE VEÏNS MANIFESTO

Speech delivered in Valenciano and English at the demonstration of 11th March 2006.

Today we have taken to the streets of Parcent to protest at the passing of three PAI'S at the Pleno of the 30th January which, if completed, will pose a grave attack on our environment and the sustainability of our village and its traditional way of life.

How can the town council talk of sustainable growth and protection of the mountain when what they propose is to build over the remaining pine groves, replacing trees with three storey housing. How can they say we have no serious arguments and we are misinformed when impartial technical reports oppose the plans, including that of the Secretary of the Town Hall of Parcent.

Mayoress, you are misinformed when you ignore the 465 signatures, 70% of Parcent voters who freely and knowingly signed their opposition to these destructive plans and in favour of a General Plan. You are misinformed when you call sustainable growth an increase of population from 1,000 to 10,000. You are misinformed when you forget your own promises. You are misinformed when you call us three or four uncontrollable elements. Mayoress, enough of your contempt, it’s time to treat all the citizens of Parcent with respect and above all listen to us.

 We demand:

·         The annulment of the pleno of 30th January.

·         The annulment of the 3 PAIs, or at least a referendum so the citizens of Parcent can have their say on such a vital issue in anonymity.

·         The study of existing proposals for sustainable growth of Parcent.

·         The drawing up of an impartial General Plan to allow for logical urban growth and activity.

·         The freezing of all monies paid by the promoters to the Town Hall, with the intention of returning these monies when the PAIs are thrown out.

 Friends and companions, Parcent could become an example of the terrible destruction that rampant urbanisation is causing our province and country, or it could remain, to quote our Mayoress, a small, picturesque, and peaceful village.

 We call for:

·         An end to the lies and an end to property speculation.

·         A say in deciding our own futures.

·         A stop to destructive development so we can save our village.