Province Statute Rejected Dialect Proposal Amid Political Disputes

The dialect, recognized as a second official language at the Province’s service counters, carries the obligation to communicate with citizens, either verbally or in writing, even in local vernacular. The proposal was advanced yesterday in the Provincial Council by Hon. Daniele Molgora of the Lega Nord during discussions on the new Statute: however, the initiative was rejected by other political forces. “Absolutely unfeasible,” replied Guglielmo Castagnetti (Forza Italia) and Leonardo Peli (An); opposition based solely on political principles from the center-left. Molgora had proposed adding to Article 1 of the new Statute, which concerns the objectives of the Province, the enhancement of the dialect, a language to be used also in relations between the institution and citizens. This, in the name of protecting local tradition and Brescian autonomy. In the end, the amendment received only the votes of Lega Nord.

Discussion on the Statute and the Regulation

The main themes of yesterday’s Council were the Statute and the regulation for the Council’s functioning. Two documents that contain the fundamental rules of the Province, developed over the past months with the contribution of all political forces. Expectations were for a unanimous vote on both. That was the case for the regulation, but the Statute was approved with the abstention of the Lega. “In these months,” said the Council President, Paola Vilardi, “there has been serious debate among the parties. The Provincial Council emerges strengthened. Minorities will have an important role.”

Indeed, a representative of theirs will preside over the new supervisory and control commission concerning the council’s proceedings. Other innovations introduced by the reform of the Statute include the establishment of a Public Relations Office, an increase in the number of assessors (up to 12), the assertion of autonomy in various areas, and the inclusion — among the goals — of promoting local traditions. Regarding the regulation, one of the new rules foresees the availability of services and resources for the functioning of council groups and the office of the presidency.

Reactions and Comments

Everyone expressed satisfaction with the new Statute: it was said that dialogue between the majority and opposition has yielded good results. Castagnetti (FI): “With these shared rules, political debate will also become more productive; procedural certainty will help us.” Carlo Fogliata (Ds): “We have worked to give more dynamism, effectiveness, and power to the Provincial Council, which should not have a secondary role compared to the Executive but a role of political guidance and oversight.” Guido Galperti (Ppi): “This Statute helps us keep alive the issues of our cultural identity and autonomy.” Mario Braga (Democratic Party): “A good outcome, also thanks to the constructive, not obstructive, attitude of the opposition.” Leonardo Peli (An): “A fruitful work was done. The center-right majority was receptive toward the minorities’ requests.” Also satisfied were Gianfranco De Gasperi (Ucl) and Massimo Borghetti (Ccd).

Molgora alone remained a voice out of sync: “This is a Statute that still exudes centralism, although not due to the provincial administrators’ fault. We are critical of its substance.” The President of the Province, Alberto Cavalli, described the document as the result of “an intelligent and capable political mediation.” Enrico Mirani