SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, January 26. (EUROPA PRESS) –
Informing the Plenary Session of the corporation on Friday, the Minister of Industry of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Manuel Fernández, disclosed that they have set a nine-month timeframe to devise a “road map” in agreement with the opposition and the wine sector to ensure the future of Island Wineries (Bitsa).
Addressing the corporation, Fernández provided an update on Bitsa’s situation following the expiry of the company’s contract to remain in the Cabildo facilities on December 31, 2023, with no legal possibility for an extension.
Fernández expressed the government group’s “unwavering support” for the winegrowers and the wine sector of the Tacoronte Acentejo region. He affirmed that they are working “to offer a legal and social solution to the issue arising from the contract’s expiration, in accordance with the Treaties of the Functioning of the European Union, which have highlighted the requirement of a fee for Bodegas to continue its service.”
The counselor revealed that “based on the proposal from the area’s technical and legal services,” a nine-month period has been established to ensure continuity in the economic activity, aimed at outlining a roadmap that will lead to a “satisfactory resolution” to the situation of Bodegas Insulares.
He assured that in this process, they aim to “proceed with full information and transparency,” emphasizing the desire to “involve all political groups.” He urged them to “rise above political agendas and join the commitment of this government group to the wine sector and the producers of the region,” as stated in a communique from the Cabildo.