Born on August 30th, 1957 in Trespaderne (Burgos), he is a graduate in economics from the University of Deusto and has a diploma in Higher European Studies and Development Economy from the University of Nancy (France). He has also pursued further study at the Free University in Brussels.

From 1981 to 1985, he was a lecturer in economic structure and policy at the University of Deusto. He was also economic co-ordinator at the Institute of European Studies and a lecturer in the International Institute of Business Management at the University of Deusto during this period.

From January 1986 to April 1987, he was an administrator in the socialist group at the European Parliament.

He was deputy councillor for planning in the Basque Government from February 1989 to February 1991.

He is a member of the Executive Committee of the Socialist Party of Euskadi-PSOE.

He has given many courses and lecturers, and has published articles in newspapers and specialist economic publications on economy policy and Community affairs.

He was secretary general for agrarian structures and in charge of IRDYA and ICONA from April 1991.

On july 30th 1993, he was appointed secretary general for energy (Ministry of Industry and Energy).

On May 5th 1994, he was appointed Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries.