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North Wales Live
25-04-2025
- Politics
- North Wales Live
Canary Islands set to overhaul tourism rulebook with new laws ahead of mass protests
The Canary Islands are set to shake up the tourism industry, as new regulations loom amidst escalating protests. There has been a surge in demonstrations, with protestors taking to the streets against the influx of tourists in the Canaries, with Tenerife in the spotlight recently. Activists have pledged to target well-known tourist spots, disrupt events, and challenge political figures. The campaign is slated to commence on May 18. "From now on, we will take our fight to the very spaces where their predatory model is perpetuated," declared the activist group Canarias tiene un límite (The Canaries Have a Limit). "We will boycott public events, confront political leaders during their appearances and occupy symbolic tourist spaces to make it clear that we will not stop until real change is achieved. "The Canary Islands can no longer be a postcard backdrop for the enjoyment of a privileged few," the group announced. In an additional cautionary message, they stated: "This cry, which reflects the feelings of a people tired of being ignored and mistreated, will be the beginning of a new stage of struggle: firmer, more direct, more uncomfortable for those who refuse to listen to us and take real measures.", reports Birmingham Live. A public consultation to update tourism laws in the Canary Islands has been launched by the government this week which could 'reshape' the 'vital economic' sector. The consultation, launched on Monday April 21, aims to update the General Tourism Law of 1995 and the 2013 Law on Tourism Renewal and Modernisation and adapt them to the 'current challenges and realities facing the islands'. Alfonso Cabello, the regional government's spokesperson, commented: "We're doing this the Canary Islands way - extending a hand and listening to everyone." Jessica de León, the Canary Islands' Minister of Tourism and Employment, highlighted the importance of balancing tourism with residents' well-being, asserting: "The new regulation must align with today's social and environmental realities, correcting outdated elements and integrating changes from national and regional rulings, including Constitutional Court decisions,". One British commenter showed understanding for the challenges faced by locals, stating: "You have to feel some sympathy with the Islanders, they need tourism but they need the right kind of tourism. All inclusive kills the local economy however at the same time they need to manage the costs charged and the amount of tourists that can be on the island at the same time." Another person enthusiastically recommended British destinations, commenting: "I'm glad I spend my money in Britain each year. The North Yorkshire Moors, Whitby, Scarborough, and the famous NYMR (Railway) is worth a visit." Meanwhile, a third individual suggested a practical approach for the Canarian government: "If the various branches of The Canarian Govt could manage a building programme to house residents into may be a way forward. Even simpler, limit air bnb properties at any one time to a very small % of housing stock available."
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Canary Islands launch groundbreaking consultation of 30-year-old tourism laws
A public consultation to update tourism laws in the Canary Islands has been launched by the government this week which could 'reshape' the 'vital economic' sector. The consultation, launched yesterday, Monday April 21, aims to update the General Tourism Law of 1995 and the 2013 Law on Tourism Renewal and Modernisation and adapt them to the 'current challenges and realities facing the islands'. Tourism has become a divisive topic on the Spanish archipelago. Over the Easter weekend, hotel workers walked out in a two-day strike over pay rises, while anti-mass tourism groups have announced plans for a protest in May, following demonstrations held last year. READ MORE: First pictures of Pope Francis in open coffin released as Vatican confirms funeral date READ MORE: How to watch Conclave film tonight on three major streaming services Among the key concerns of protestors is the sustainability of the current tourism model and the impact mass tourism is having on housing, local infrastructure and the environment. This new consultation looks to address some of these key issues, local news site Canarian Weekly reports. One goal is to address the chronic housing shortage in tourism-heavy areas, with a view to protecting local residents' access to long-term housing. The reform will also identify areas with 'high levels of tourist activity' which face more pressure on services and the environment due to the levels of visitors. The outcome of this will then 'influence future infrastructure and public service policies' for these areas. The new legislation is expected to include 'updates to planning and building standards in degraded tourist areas, bringing them into line with stricter criteria from European, Spanish, and Canarian law.' This includes the aim of modernising facilities while ensuring better environmental and social sustainability. Alfonso Cabello, a spokesperson for the regional government explained during a press conference: 'We're doing this the Canary Islands way — extending a hand and listening to everyone', adding that the consultations will take place in the coming months. Jessica de León, the Canary Islands' Minister of Tourism and Employment, said the framework must take into account the "vulnerability" of the islands and the 'quality of life of its residents'. She said: 'The new regulation must align with today's social and environmental realities, correcting outdated elements and integrating changes from national and regional rulings, including Constitutional Court decisions.' The minister added: 'This process is about reconnecting regulation with the people and professionals of the islands — making tourism more equitable, sustainable, and resilient.' For more of today's top stories, click here.
