Andorra Hygiene Staff Anxious Over Court-Ordered Return of Failed Probation Head

Staff at the Hygiene department in Andorra la Vella are anxious once again as the local council faces pressure to temporarily reinstate a former area head who failed his probation period.

The administrative chamber of the Superior Court has partially upheld an appeal by the official, who was dismissed in early 2024 after not completing required probation evaluations. The ruling mandates his return to the role for a new assessment, highlighting the council's failure to conduct a standard mid-term review during his initial trial period.

The employee, previously trusted by then-Consol Conxita Marsol and Hygiene councillor Gerard Estrella, took over the department in a move that unsettled staff amid high workloads. Tensions escalated when the council removed him based on a final technical report deeming him unsuitable. He then went on medical leave, citing health impacts from alleged workplace harassment, and pursued legal action.

While a first-instance Batllia ruling backed the council decisively, the employee's appeal succeeded on procedural grounds. The court noted only the end-of-probation report was produced, with no intermediate evaluation—likely overlooked amid 2023 elections and leadership changes. Magistrates ruled he must resume probation for proper review.

Current Consol Sergi Gonzàlez and councillor Jordi Cabanes met department staff this week to explain the situation. The council has sought court clarification on whether a full probation term or a shorter period applies. Sources indicate a three-month reinstatement followed by objective evaluation is most likely, after which he could stay or return to his prior water services role.

The official remains on recognised medical leave until next month, leaving the start date unclear. Staff unrest is mounting: some have warned leaders that confirming his position could prompt transfers or resignations from the administration.