1000’s of individuals have taken to the streets on the Canary Islands to protest in opposition to tourism and say the area is “not on the market”.
The residents are calling for the Spanish group of islands to briefly restrict vacationer arrivals in a bid to stem a growth in short-term vacation leases and lodge development – which is driving up housing prices for locals.
Tourism accounts for 35% of the gross home product (GDP) within the Canary Islands, however demonstrators say modifications to the business should be made.
Teams protested in Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and La Palma on Saturday.
Protesters in Gran Canaria. Pic: AP
Indicators studying “We do not need to see our island die”, “Cease Lodges” and “Canaries not on the market” have been seen as 1000’s of individuals took to the streets.
“It is not a message in opposition to the vacationer, however in opposition to a tourism mannequin that does not profit this land and must be modified,” mentioned one protester in Tenerife’s capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Marches have been additionally held in cities on mainland Spain.
They have been organised by two environmental organisations and timed to fall simply earlier than the height summer season vacation season.
‘No se vende’ – which means ‘Not on the market’ – declared one placard. Pic: Reuters
The teams are calling for native authorities to briefly restrict customer numbers to be able to alleviate stress on the islands’ atmosphere, infrastructure and housing scenario. Additionally they hope the proposal will curb property purchases by foreigners.
Antonio Bullon, a protester in Tenerife, mentioned: “The authorities should instantly cease this corrupt and harmful mannequin that depletes the assets and makes the financial system extra precarious.
“The Canary Islands have limits and folks’s persistence too.”
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The seven most important Canary Islands are dwelling to 2.2 million individuals and in 2023, practically 14 million worldwide vacationers visited them – up 13% from the earlier yr.
Authorities are involved concerning the impression excessive volumes of vacationers are having on the locals, and a draft legislation toughening up the foundations on short-term lets is anticipated to be handed this yr.
Demonstrators in Tenerife. Pic: AP
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The islands’ president mentioned on Friday that he felt “proud” the area is a number one Spanish tourism spot, however acknowledged extra controls are wanted.
“We will not hold trying away. In any other case, motels will proceed to open with none management,” Fernando Clavijo advised a information convention.
