VALVERDE (EL HIERRO), 21 (EUROPA PRESS)
The president of the Cabildo of El Hierro, Alpidio Armas, has contacted the Secretary of State for Migration in the central government to explore alternatives aimed at freeing up space at the La Restinga dock. This includes the establishment of additional space on one side of the dock, which has annexed land that could be utilised through a mutual agreement.
In his address, Armas emphasises the need for “awareness of the magnitude of the issue” arising from this occupation, particularly concerning the appearance and cleanliness of the port area. He seeks alternative and consensual solutions to “enhance” the image of this pier and, more generally, this tourist destination, which has seen a decline in activity.
He has also reached out to the Ministry of Public Works, Housing and Mobility of the Government of the Canary Islands, as well as the entity Puertos Canarios, and the Minister of Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, Ángel Víctor Torres, in his capacity as president of the Interministerial Commission on Immigration, to communicate this concern.
In the correspondence sent to the Migration authorities, they have expressed concern regarding the recent trend at La Restinga port, where “the tents set up for initial reception of migrants are being gradually replaced with modular containers, with no clarity on who has authorised this change or what the purpose is.”
According to Alpidio Armas, “Such an operation has created a sense of worry within the community of this southern town, as they see that more than half of the dock is occupied by prefabricated structures that are almost permanent, presenting a landscape that is not appealing to either local residents or tourists visiting this area.”
The president of El Hierro further mentions that the Cabildo “has consistently shown cooperation in response to the migratory challenge significantly impacting this island, its residents, and local administrations; this dock is the one receiving the highest number of boats and migrants.”
He continues in a statement issued by the corporation, “while recognising that this phenomenon could disrupt the lifestyle and economy of this community, which primarily relies on fishing, scuba diving, and hospitality services.”.
Furthermore, the island president highlights that they have remained “consistent and empathetic” regarding a situation that “affects” the island, and which, “unfortunately” we must learn to “coexist with, as it persists over time.”
WARNINGS OF “UNWANTED” SITUATIONS
Nonetheless, he asserts, “we believe that there are certain circumstances, like the current ones, which require more effective interventions with a broader perspective from the relevant organisations; otherwise, we may be driven into undesirable opposition.”
This appeal aligns with the mayor of the most affected municipality, El Pinar, with both Armas and local councillor Juan Miguel Padrón agreeing in urging the Migration Secretariat of the Spanish Government to seek solutions in the short, medium, and long term aimed at clearing the port of almost all its space occupied by migrant infrastructure. They contend that the current image is unsuitable and fails to dignify the only southern area of El Hierro.
According to the Cabildo, “there has been a noticeable decline in diving tourism activity, overnight stays at local accommodations, and restaurant patronage, demonstrating a worrying and even alarming decrease in the circular economy, hence the need for immediate action.”
Along these lines, Armas points out that “beyond the negative impression of the dock,” there is an “additional issue” surrounding the maintenance of a port and beach that hold the Blue Flag distinction, which could be at risk of losing due to a lack of action to address the current reality.
He has stated that the residents of La Restinga, the municipality, and all social and economic sectors have been “patient, understanding, and supportive” in welcoming migrants, with over 2,000 arrivals since the start of the year, almost 60% of those who have reached the islands. This “raises concerns” about potential disruptions to “this understanding and coexistence, which must remain a hallmark of the atmosphere in this community. However, we must proactively address the issue and avoid falling into resignation and stagnation.”