Escaldes-Engordany Approves Body Camera Rules, Urges Ministry Approval

Escaldes-Engordany's parish council unanimously approved regulations on Thursday enabling traffic agents to use body cameras, as Mayor Rosa Gili pressed the Interior Ministry for prompt authorization amid prolonged delays.

Speaking to reporters after the session, Gili voiced hope that agents could soon deploy the already-purchased devices. She stressed the need for a rapid resolution, noting that local authorities have awaited ministry approval for months. The council has requested minutes from the National Video Surveillance Commission, which falls under Interior, to clarify the hold-up. Gili suggested that Canillo parish's pilot test of the cameras during its major festival might highlight legal issues and spur faster approval. Article 7 of the new rules requires prior administrative clearance from Interior.

The Andorran Data Protection Agency (APDA) recently issued guidance reminding all entities of videovigilance requirements, including prior justification, risk analysis, and ministry authorization for public spaces—along with a binding commission report. The APDA plans a public awareness campaign in September. Escaldes-Engordany consulted the agency during regulation drafting and expects to submit it soon.

Gili emphasized the rules' focus on personal data handling and frontline safety needs, while acknowledging that those outside operations might not fully appreciate them.

In parallel votes, the council boosted funding for Caldea parking and Josep Viladomat street renovations from €1.8 million (€1 million in 2026, €800,000 in 2027) to €4.4 million (€1.3 million this year, €3.1 million in 2027). Deputy Mayor Joaquim Dolsa cited Semtee's Caldea investments, persistent leaks, sewer upgrades, a new Dos Valires exit, larger spaces, repainting, and accessible paths for Salita care home residents. Tenders may launch in September, funded by reallocations amid rising construction costs.

Fines for motorized access to protected Madriu Valley zones rose from €150 (€300 for repeats) to €1,000-€3,000, coordinated with four involved parishes, per councilor Magda Mata.

First-quarter 2026 finances recorded a €5.9 million surplus, with €12.3 million revenue against €6.4 million expenses, driven by €4.4 million in taxes and €4.8 million in fees; personnel costs hit €3.1 million, 5% under budget.

Meanwhile, Sant Julià de Lòria advances its own body camera rules, prioritizing data privacy without linking to rising insecurity, its mayor Cerni Cairat said.