MEMBERS of the Catalan parliament have voted to declare independence from Spain putting them on a collision course with Spain’s national government in Madrid.
The motion from the ruling coalition Junts pel Si (Together for Yes) and their allies from the left-wing Popular Unity Candidacy (CUP) seeks “open negotiation with the Spanish state” without pre-conditions, and urges the international community and European Union officials to “stop the ongoing civil and political rights violations and to follow up on the negotiating process” with Spain.
READ MORE: The EU's response to Catalonia's declaration of independence will make you VERY angry
READ MORE: Saltires and Catalan flags are waved as tearful supporters celebrate independence
The motion which passed
Opposition MPs boycotted the vote, which saw a 70-10 majority for Yes, with two blank papers.
WATCH: The spine-tingling moment Catalonia declares independence from Spain
Thousands of demonstrators waving Catalan flags and chanting “independence” and “freedom”, had gathered outside Ciutadella park in Barcelona, where Catalonia’s parliament is located, and cheered as news of the decision broke.
READ MORE: These pictures of Catalans celebrating after declaring independence are brilliant
Spain opposes the independence bid and Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s government is discussing moves to take over control of the north-eastern state.
Rajoy had earlier urged the Spanish Senate to grant unprecedented constitutional measures under Article 155 of the constitution, which would allow central government to take control of Catalonia's autonomous powers.
READ MORE: The National View: Scotland must now recognise an independent Catalonia
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