Pensioner Candidates Clash on CASS Board Powers in Andorra Debate

Five candidates vying to represent pensioners on the CASS board clashed over the scope of their influence during a recent debate ahead of the 17 June elections.

Ignasi Arbusà, Pere Canturri, Josep Garcia Nebot, Florenci Pla and Lluís Samper outlined differing views on the board's role versus that of the Government and General Council. Arbusà, a former CASS benefits director, stressed that major reforms demand involvement from the Government, General Council and possibly a national pact, with the board limited to proposals and pressure.

Canturri echoed this, noting Government appointees hold decisive weight on the board and that key changes hinge on political and legislative action. Samper, a former CASS board member, prioritised defending pensioners' interests over investment debates, urging safeguards against future Governments diverting pension funds.

Nebot challenged limits on the board's oversight, insisting members must scrutinise technical reports and demand accountability. He warned he would resign if the role proved powerless and criticised the pension reserve fund's conservative investment strategy, which he said yields insufficient returns given its funding from both retirees and long-term contributors.

Pla aligned with Nebot, calling for active analysis, error detection and technical input to shift from passive listening to execution.

All agreed the pension system faces urgent reform. Canturri described a "limit situation" after years of political inaction. Pla warned delays would steepen the challenge, while Nebot said no action has occurred for 20-30 years. They diverged on financing: Nebot pushed for contributions beyond the Government's 21% plan, to 23-24%, plus greater State involvement. Samper favoured a Luxembourg-style shared model and new revenue sources. Canturri and Arbusà cautioned extra State funds would still burden citizens via taxes.

On high pensions, Arbusà supported capping extremes for equity, Nebot rejected it as confiscatory without contribution limits, and Samper backed full solidarity.

Candidates proposed outreach: periodic home visits, weekly CASS sessions, dedicated offices and affiliate defender coordination. Backgrounds include Arbusà as a doctor, Canturri in hospitality and elderly care, Nebot in finance, Pla as a university maths lecturer, and Samper in IT and disability advocacy.

Elections for four board seats across pensioners, employees and employers opened deposit voting on Monday, with mobile urns touring parishes to boost turnout after 2022's record-low 2.92%.