Alberto Siufi, secretary of Communication and Open Government for the province, announced on April 7 a new format for press engagement that will allow journalists to inquire about official matters. The meetings are scheduled to take place every Monday and Thursday.
Siufi addressed several issues during the session, including the reduction of national funds for public works and his concerns regarding the discontinuation of the Potenciar Trabajo program. He said that these changes would affect thousands in Jujuy who rely on this support.
He also discussed ongoing teacher disputes and confirmed that pay deductions for strike days would remain in effect. “The deduction of strike days is something that is firm,” Siufi said, adding, “a day not worked is a day not paid.” On health emergencies affecting seniors with PAMI coverage, he responded to questions about how these situations are being managed locally.
Siufi highlighted difficulties faced by the provincial government due to limited representation at the national level. He explained that authorization from the National Ministry of Economy was still pending for a loan needed to advance with projects Cauchari 4 and 5. According to Siufi, if implemented, these projects could generate $42 million annually for Jujuy and provide tools to attract further investment. He noted criticism toward local legislators from La Libertad Avanza (LLA), saying they were not supporting provincial efforts.
Regarding existing energy projects Cauchari 1, 2, and 3, Siufi stated they currently generate $62 million per year used to repay previous loans: “Payments are being made absolutely on time,” he said. Looking ahead at Cauchari 4 and 5, he suggested part of their output could be allocated toward lowering utility rates or creating a distinct social tariff.
On Potenciar Trabajo ending in April, Siufi emphasized it would negatively impact more than thirty-three thousand beneficiaries in Jujuy who each receive seventy-eight thousand pesos monthly—amounting to nearly six billion pesos no longer entering the province. “It is a matter of concern,” he said.
Siufi criticized National Economy Minister Luis Caputo for what he described as neglecting health-related issues and withholding emergency financial assistance (ATN) from Jujuy: “Jujuy is not ‘on the radar’ of the National Government,” he said.
He also mentioned an allegation against LLA deputy Manuel Quintar regarding claims that Quintar had established a clinic led by his wife specifically to bill PAMI services. Addressing another question about potential layoffs in public administration, Siufi insisted there were no plans for job cuts: “The idea of the government is absolutely not to make adjustments” targeting workers.
