SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 23 Oct (EUROPA PRESS) –
The president of the Cabildo of La Gomera, Casimiro Curbelo, has dismissed the idea of implementing a forest cent on the island due to its detrimental effects on fuel taxes and, consequently, on the region’s economy. His viewpoint concentrated on supporting alternative methods to this additional charge, aimed at levying fees for services offered within protected natural areas.
“We must adopt a rational approach. We are a region aspiring to improve both quality as a destination and our commitment to the preservation of our surroundings. Currently, we can achieve this by introducing payment systems for services accessed by tourists, for instance, in the parks,” he elaborated, while recalling that this strategy has previously been advocated by certain island authorities.
Curbelo asserted that while the introduction of the forest cent may appear reasonable, “it is illogical that, on one hand, we advocate for the fuel subsidy, and on the other hand, we are considering a new tax.” Hence, he cautioned that for La Gomera, it would signify a setback in the aims of fostering investment and improving transport links.
He expressed regret that this issue has become a platform for political discord, revolving around the suggestion of imposing an ecotax in the Canary Islands. “I oppose the tourist levy or any form of ecotax. We must strive to invigorate the sector in rural areas, and I do not believe that this represents a pragmatic solution,” he commented.
In conclusion, he stated that he will convey his stance at the upcoming Assembly of the Canary Islands Federation (Fecai), scheduled for this week, where he will have the chance to discuss this matter with representatives from other island councils.
