An unusual case of squatting has shaken the quiet town of Vicenç dels Horts near Barcelona. A family with young children found shelter in a long-abandoned guardhouse on the premises of a local school. Their actions immediately sparked outrage among the parents of students, who complained about the newcomers’ provocative behavior. According to them, the residents, lacking basic amenities, were bathing right in the yard in full view of others. The issue quickly spread beyond the local community and became a hot topic of debate on the popular television show “Espejo público.”
A true battle of opinions unfolded in the studio. Some experts called for sympathy, pointing to the extreme need that drove the family to such measures. However, media personality Mariló Montero took a firm stance. She declared herself “the voice of dissent” on the matter and expressed serious concern that property squatting is becoming an epidemic in Spain. In her view, people in need of shelter are now willing to occupy any space they can find, even those completely unfit for living. Montero stressed that living in a guardhouse without water or sanitation should not be normalized. She was particularly disturbed by the fact that students were forced to witness the daily life of the new residents, which she deemed an unacceptable example for minors.
The celebrity also noted that the problem cannot be solved by such methods. She pointed out that none of the property squatters she knows has ultimately managed to find steady employment or build a stable life. In her view, the responsibility to find adequate housing for these individuals lies entirely with the municipal authorities, who should have intervened and provided them with a more suitable place.
The discussion took an entirely unexpected turn when the head of the squatting family joined the broadcast. His emotional testimony silenced even the harshest critics. In despair, the man revealed that he was caring for three children and had received no real assistance from the local authorities. He admitted that occupying the property was not a solution, but said he couldn’t leave his children on the street, as no one would agree to rent to him. The father also reported that officials, instead of providing support, cut off their water supply and even hinted at the possibility of taking his children away. He strongly denied allegations of inappropriate behavior, assuring that they chose an abandoned building so as not to disturb anyone, and that they keep it clean and orderly for their children’s well-being.
The man’s heartfelt story made a strong impression on everyone present. The host of the program, Susanna Griso, noted that this situation could not be considered a typical case of squatting. However, it was Mariló Montero’s reaction that proved most telling. After hearing the story, she was at a loss for words of reproach and noticeably softened her stance. Moreover, the show’s editorial team decided not to limit themselves to discussion and attempted to help the father find employment, turning a tense social conflict into a story of human compassion.
