As Spain tries to reduce its public debt, it finds itself under the same pressure from unions as Greece, Italy and France. Bilateral talks between the government and unions have broken down, and government officials say that if they do not reach a deal by May 31, they will push the reforms through without the union's support, including by royal decree. Spanish unions have already announced a one-day strike over pay cuts for June 8, and have also said that a royal decree would lead to a general strike. The building pressure on the government seems to be working, as the austerity package passed by one vote.
See "Spanish reform talks struggle", Kevin Liffey, Reuters, May 27, 2010