Catalonia complains to Madrid over confiscation of face masks

The Catalan authorities have complained to the Spanish government about the confiscation of vital material, such as face masks and protective glasses, destined for at least two hospitals in Catalonia.

Catalan health minister, Alba Vergés, complained to the state health ministry on Wednesday about the blocking of the deliveries, as did Marc Castells, the mayor of Igualada, where one of the hospitals affected is located.

As well as the confiscation of the products by the Guardia Civil police, the Catalan authorities say the police have contacted some companies to find out what material they have in stock and where they are sending it. 

"This cannot be, and we will never understand the stopping of orders or the recentralization of what more than ever should be processed rapidly and sent to where it is needed most," said Vergés.

4,000 masks destined for Igualada hospital

Castells, whose town is locked down due to an outbreak of covid-19, publically complained that 4,000 masks destined for Igualada hospital had been blocked in Madrid and he called for the Spanish authorities to act responsibly.

Spain's health ministry denied that any material was being withheld from any regional cabinet and said that the authorities were distributing vital material in the fairest way possible.

The Catalan government has been critical of Madrid's decision to centralize management of the health crisis, although Spanish president Pedro Sánchez justified the strategy in congress on Wednesday as "more efficient."