A group of mayors from the Coquimbo region has expressed its rejection of recent statements by Congressman Marco Antonio Sulantay, urging him to get a "reality check" on the ground. Local officials have escalated their criticism of the lawmaker's proposals, which suggest suspending mining royalties for municipalities.
Local leaders criticized Sulantay's rhetoric as being confined to "offices," disconnected from the urgent needs of their communities. The dispute centers on the distribution of mining revenues and regional priorities.
Crisis and Restructuring in La Serena’s Healthcare
Alongside the political tension, Mayor Daniela Norambuella's administration is implementing a rescue plan for La Serena's municipal healthcare following years of financial crisis. The primary care system, which previously operated under management marked by irregularities and misappropriation of funds, is seeking to emerge from its critical state.
Municipal officials stated that the strategy aims to eradicate malpractice and the use of the healthcare network for political purposes. A key milestone in this process was the transfer of Primary Health Care (PHC) to direct municipal management on February 1st.
The Labor Directorate also intervened in the process via ruling Ord. N°226, which eliminated the so-called "tacit clause." This mechanism allowed for the payment of bonuses and incentives without a legal basis under the pretext of acquired rights, destabilizing the municipal budget.
The new administration also demanded compliance with regulations regarding union hours from the leadership of Afusam. This forced a reduction in time dedicated exclusively to union activities from 44 to 11 hours per week, allowing union leaders to return to direct patient care.
These measures have generated monthly savings of over $20 million, funds that the administration is already redirecting toward the purchase of medication. According to municipal sources, the health department closed the last month with a positive balance of nearly $100 million.
