SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE 23 Oct. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Plenary Session of the Parliament of the Canary Islands, with Vox abstaining, approved on Wednesday the consideration of the Socialist Group’s proposed legislation to amend the tourism law of the Canary Islands and mandate the installation of elevating beds in hotel establishments, following the example set by the Balearic Islands.
Gustavo Santana (PSOE) acknowledged that there have been “issues” in discussing this law amendment, noting that the reports provided by the Government of the Canary Islands indicate the current legislation functions “properly” in the Balearic Islands. He advocated for the integration of this measure into the law rather than issuing a decree.
The socialist proposal also seeks access to a fund of 20 million euros from the Ministry of Tourism to enhance, digitalise, and modernise the sector, which would assist in subsidising the acquisition of these beds, estimated at around 1,500 euros, for accommodation facilities with less than 50 beds.
He emphasised that the “responsibility” now falls upon the parliamentary groups, asserting that the Government “has made an error,” and called upon all groups to discuss this issue in a “calm” fashion, stressing that elevating beds represent “social justice.” “We also do this for those who are yet to come,” he remarked.
Raúl Acosta (AHI) defended the current actions being carried out by the Government, asserting they may be “quicker” than amending the law, particularly in the case of a decree, which holds “the same authority” as a law. “It is commendable that this law is being passed, but what is its purpose?” he queried.
Jesús Ramos (ASG) stated that it is “essential” to amend the tourism law as the current situation in the Canary Islands is “different” from that of 1995, advocating for “consensus rather than tension” given that tourism serves as the primary “engine” of the Canarian economy.
The Gomero deputy called for the updating of labour agreements to ensure “decent” wages and a more equitable distribution of tourism benefits, extending a “hand of cooperation” to the PSOE to reach mutually beneficial agreements.
Paula Jover (Vox) asserted that tourism in the Canary Islands must be “nurtured” in light of the “embarrassing scenes” from the demonstrations in tourist areas last Sunday. She endorsed the workers’ contributions and questioned the “unprecedented stress” they endure, managing up to 30 beds daily.
She highlighted that some employees arrive “medicated” or are unable to care for their children, and while she supports the introduction of elevating beds, she indicated her group will abstain from supporting their consideration, advocating instead for necessary early retirements and measures to prevent the illegal transfer of workers without “burdening” employers.
NC-BC WONDERS “WHERE DOES THE GOVERNMENT HAVE ITS SOUL”
Natalia Santana (NC-BC) demanded “justice for the kellys” and genuine intent to instigate change, drawing attention to the fact that some workers take up to “seven pills a day” to endure their jobs.
The deputy voiced her confusion over the need to “await the experts” and questioned “where does the Canary Islands Government have its soul,” pointing out that it has at least lifted the “veto” preventing the bill from being debated. “To correct oneself is wise,” she added.
David Morales (PP) requested an end to the use of the term ‘kellys’ as it is deemed “derogatory,” supporting the need for a “renewal” of the current law while criticising the socialists for their inaction during the last legislative period.
Mario Cabrera (CC) reproached the socialists for their lack of action during the previous legislature concerning the ‘Flower Pact’ and the stalling of discussions on this matter, revealing his perplexity over why they are now reluctant to wait an additional eight months for new reports from the Government to assess working conditions.
He also advised the socialists that they now possess a “great opportunity” to demonstrate their “sensitivity” to the household staff if they present a PNL to Congress, which has been unanimously approved in the Canary Islands to acknowledge “specific illnesses” and allow for early retirement.
