Veneto Governor Nello Musumeci: “Autonomy Should Come First in any Negotiations, Not Transfer of Competences

Nello Musumeci opposes the Veneto Region’s request to reopen discussions with the government for the transfer of competences on nine matters for which the definition of the Essential Levels of Performance (Lep) is not foreseen. He expresses doubts about the request and emphasizes the need for all regions to start from the same line regarding autonomy. He suggests that Veneto Governor Zaia should focus on expediting the process of identifying the Lep, which serves as a guarantee for disadvantaged regions before moving forward with negotiations.

Minister of Civil Protection Calderoli suggests that Zaia should wait to start negotiations until the Lep is defined, a process that could take a year. Zaia defends the law on differentiated autonomy, emphasizing the benefits it brings to citizens. He dismisses criticism of the law and emphasizes the importance of respecting and implementing laws.

Zaia expresses surprise at the opposition’s protest initiatives and defends the referendum process. He criticizes the Democratic Party for opposing progress and efficiency that autonomy would bring. The Lega secretariat also supports Zaia’s perspective, citing the benefits of autonomy for the regions.

Musumeci clarifies his position on autonomy, stating that differentiated autonomy promotes cohesion and subsidiarity. Other regions, such as Lombardy, also plan to request negotiations for the transfer of competences. The government has 60 days to evaluate