“We are facing a fundamental connection for Fuerteventura. We cannot allow the lack of planning by the Spanish Government to jeopardise a vital maritime route for the transport of passengers, vehicles, goods, and rolled cargo between the island and the mainland.”
Fernando Enseñat, a member of the Popular Parliamentary Group representing Fuerteventura, is set to defend an initiative in the upcoming plenary session of the Canary Islands Parliament. He aims to compel Pedro Sánchez’s government to expedite the tender for the new Public Service Obligation (OSP) for the Cádiz–Puerto del Rosario maritime route, thereby ensuring the continuity of this crucial connection for the island and the entire archipelago.
Concerns Over Future Service
Enseñat has expressed his concern regarding the uncertainty surrounding the current OSP, which was awarded to Armas Trasmediterránea and will end on 30 June 2026. The Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility has yet to complete the new tendering process or provide clear assurances about the effective continuation of the service.
“We are facing a fundamental connection for Fuerteventura. We cannot allow the lack of planning by the Spanish Government to jeopardise a vital maritime route for the transport of passengers, vehicles, goods, and rolled cargo between the island and the mainland,” the MP stated.
Impact on Users and Businesses
Enseñat reported that numerous users have recently complained about the cancellation of summer reservations due to the lack of legal and operational security regarding the line’s continuity, with journeys being diverted to Arrecife port. This situation is already causing concern among families, businesses, and logistics operators.
He highlighted that the Cádiz–Puerto del Rosario line plays a key role in supplying Fuerteventura, facilitating the import of food products, goods, vehicles, and essential supplies. Consequently, any reduction or interruption of the service would have direct repercussions on the island’s economy and the cost of living for its residents.
Urgent Action Required
“Fuerteventura must not be isolated nor suffer an additional increase in the prices of basic goods due to the inaction of the PSOE government. Maritime connectivity is a matter of equality, territorial cohesion, and justice for peripheral regions,” he asserted.
Through this initiative, the Popular Parliamentary Group will call on the Canary Islands Parliament to urge the Canary Islands Government to demand two specific measures from the central government: the immediate acceleration of the tender process for the new OSP to ensure uninterrupted service from 1 July 2026, and the transparent publication of information regarding the status of the procedure, anticipated timelines, and contingency measures to guarantee service provision.
The Popular Parliamentary Group believes that maritime connectivity between the Canary Islands and the mainland is a strategic infrastructure for economic development, mobility, and supply to the islands. Therefore, they are calling for urgent and responsible action to provide security and certainty for citizens and businesses.
