Peru's Honorary Consul in Andorra Provides 24/7 Aid to Community

Jaume Tàpies, Peru's honorary consul in Andorra, maintains round-the-clock support for the Peruvian community, addressing emergencies, workplace accidents, residency issues, and expulsions.

Community members reach out at any hour—2:30pm, 4pm, or 9pm—and Tàpies responds promptly, he noted. He hands out contact cards during visits to handle urgent queries, fielding three or four such calls monthly to clarify concerns or identify fixes. "We handle whatever arises, whenever it does," he said.

Tàpies focuses on delivering full details to enable sound decisions. Workers often call in distress after accidents, seeking guidance on sick leave, compensation, or labour rights. Residency problems and expulsions also feature prominently. He described a wave of deportations targeting those without permits or who had brought family unauthorised, resulting in harsh outcomes. His office examined files, outlining interpretations and appeal prospects—or warning when deadlines had lapsed.

He advocates for Peruvians with Andorran officials, complementing embassy efforts. During ambassador visits, he covers local matters, and after government or immigration meetings, he circulates notes to the consulates in Barcelona and Madrid for full transparency.

Tàpies commended the community's "nobility" in mutual aid. Following grave incidents like accidents or a family bereavement, members pool funds for essentials such as return flights. "That's genuinely touching and noble," he observed.

Looking ahead, preparations are under way for a mass marking 'El Señor de los Milagros', a key Peruvian religious devotion in October. More event details will follow soon, Tàpies said.