Canary Islands Urge EU to Maintain Special Funding for Outermost Regions
In Tenerife, the Canary Islands and the European Democratic Party (PDE) have called for the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework to ensure continued support for outermost regions (RUP). Both parties emphasised that upcoming budget negotiations are crucial for upholding the mechanisms that have historically addressed the unique challenges faced by territories like the Canaries, Madeira, the Azores, and French overseas regions.
Fernando Clavijo, Secretary of Coalición Canaria and PDE Vice-President, warned that proposed reforms to the EU budget could alter governance structures, merging various policies into national and regional plans and diminishing specific tools for the RUP. “This isn’t just about funding; it’s about acknowledging a reality the EU has safeguarded for years,” he said.
Sandro Gozi, Secretary General of the PDE, highlighted that the discussion extends beyond resource distribution, emphasizing the importance of a Europe that respects regional diversity while fostering cohesion. He argued that the simplification pushed by the European Commission should not lead to centralisation which could weaken differentiated policies for the RUP.
Gozi also described outermost regions as “ultracentrals” in the geopolitical landscape, playing a key role in international outreach and contributions to maritime security, biodiversity, and relations with Africa and America.
David Toledo, Secretary General of Coalición Canaria, reiterated that they seek recognition rather than privileges. He pointed to geographical challenges like insularity and structural costs which require a clear European response, linking this to issues like housing and migration.
Toledo advocated for EU legislation to address recent housing challenges, specifically regarding non-resident purchases of properties used minimally each year in the Islands.
The meeting included a roundtable discussion featuring important figures from sectors like agriculture and transport, who raised concerns about the potential impact of the new financial framework on primary industries and direct communication with the EU.
The session concluded with Oihane Agirregoitia, a PNV MEP, voicing her dissent against the proposed financial reform, stressing the need to protect the POSEI programme and cohesion funds vital to regions like the Canary Islands.
The gathering aimed to strengthen a unified strategy for the imminent budget negotiations, regarded as critical for the economic and social futures of outermost regions seeking a distinct voice in the EU.
