Authored by Doris Carballo and Luis Rabionet. | Nearly 50 individuals without financial means, out of the 210 who were recently forced out of their homes in Costa del Silencio (Arona), spent their second consecutive night outdoors near the Chasna 8 building. Among them were children, sick individuals, and people from various nationalities.
During the initial night, the severe cold took its toll on those who had no option but to sleep in tents or vehicles outside what was previously their residence. Some had to seek medical attention from an ambulance for conditions like rheumatism. The second night passed more smoothly, with optimal temperatures, as reported by Eloy Outeiral, the spokesperson for the affected residents, to the local newspaper: “The second night was more bearable and quieter. The weather was better, so we didn’t face the same challenges as the first night. But we are still struggling to find solutions.”
The spokesperson acknowledged that their situation had slightly improved in the area, thanks to the makeshift camp set up by the affected individuals themselves: “We had to sleep in cars and tents. I provided one on the first night, but on the second night, we have received more from generous local residents. We have also secured our current location.”
“We are not trespassers. We entered this building because it was abandoned, half-constructed, and had open doors. We did so out of necessity, as we had no other option. We are not willing to risk our lives for rent prices that are as high as our charges. Currently, it is unfeasible to afford accommodation while working and earning a modest salary,” he emphasised.
He highlighted, “Having a job doesn’t guarantee stability. I am a skilled bricklayer. When I got divorced and couldn’t afford to buy or rent a home due to unaffordable conditions, I had to settle here. I wish I could find housing that aligns with my income.”
In light of the lack of solutions from the Aronero City Council, he expressed frustration: “We have informed the authorities, who have visited us, that they should return not with empty promises but with viable solutions. “We are not seeing the results they have assured us of.”
Regarding the building’s closure, the spokesperson shared the latest developments: “Reportedly, the building owner has decided to seal off the area. Fences have been erected around us inside. He wants us to vacate the premises, but we have nowhere else to go. He has even brought in excavators.”
Regarding minors, he confirmed that the local authorities have provided assistance to families with children: “There are no longer any children in the camp.” He also expressed how hope is diminishing with each passing hour: “We are losing hope of receiving any assistance. Despite having rights as individuals here, it seems that our rights are being overlooked. Tourists passing by are unable to comprehend our predicament, making us question the current situation in Spain.”
“Unlawful Occupation”
A group of residents from Ten-Bel has taken measures following what they perceive as a “risk of unlawful occupation of homes” after the eviction of the Chasna 8 building last Tuesday. A notice placed in front of the community, where keys were handed out in July 2023, indicates that “the decision has been made to close the doors” starting from March 13. It states, “Vehicle access will remain open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.,” and confirms that only one entry point to the property will remain accessible.
