Catalan President Artur Mas announced November 9 as the date for an independence referendum . But Madrid argues that Catalonia , which represents one fifth of Spain 's economy , already has broad home-rule powers , including its own parliament , police force and control over education and health . The federal government in Madrid is firmly opposed to any such vote taking place . Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators gathered earlier this month for a vote to be held . But opinion polls showed that less than a majority would opt for a split from Spain .
Catalan President Artur Mas announced November 9 as the date for an independence referendum . The federal government in Madrid is firmly opposed to any such vote taking place . Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators gathered earlier this month for a vote to be held . But opinion polls showed that less than a majority would opt for a split from Spain .