The head of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Dávila, stated on Friday that in the pursuit of methods to enhance societal well-being and preserve the environment on the island, “we need to consider restricting the impact on natural areas, through fees.”
In remarks to Radio Club Tenerife reported by EFE, Dávila has called for discussions to be held “calmly and with utmost respect” with those expressing their views in the 20 A protests calling for a change in the island’s model because, in her view, “it might reflect a widespread sentiment in society.”
In addition to supporting the implementation of charges in protected natural areas, the president of the Tenerife Cabildo also stressed the need for greater awareness regarding the respectful treatment of the natural, cultural, and ethnographic heritage on the islands, as well as the promotion of social housing.
“As the president of the Cabildo, I am fully committed to exploring ways to enhance the quality of life, considering that tourism is a crucial pillar of our economy, and a significant job creator, but it must be of a high standard and improve living standards,” she remarked.
Rosa Dávila clarified that “the common ground” with those planning to protest on the streets of the Canary Islands this 20A is that “tourism revenues should directly benefit the communities they serve,” and stressed that the economic model should be designed to enhance the overall well-being of society.
“Residents should feel that the proceeds from tourism contribute to an improved quality of life, and it is evident that Tenerife is facing population pressure, compounded by the fact that not a single unit of social housing has been built in the last four years,” she stated.
She also pointed out that “we must acknowledge the finite nature of the island”, hence mentioning that the demographic pressures must be managed effectively.
