Offering “accountability and dedication” with the aim to “simplify” the lives of citizens
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 23rd May (EUROPA PRESS) –
The first female Common Deputy in the Canary Islands’ history, Lola Padrón, urged Parliament on Thursday to consider a legislative change to transform the institution into a “mediator” for conflict resolution through inter-administrative collaboration, stressing the importance of avoiding the perception of their reports as “weapon throwing.”
In her speech during the opening session at the Canary Islands’ Parliament, she expressed a strong sense of direction, responsibility, and dedication to “simplify” the lives of citizens.
Padrón reflected on the accomplishments of her predecessors, placing particular emphasis on Rafael Yanes’s role – “acknowledged as one of the best deputies of the Canary Islands’ Common” – and recognised the significance of a woman entering the institution after nearly 40 years.
“It’s a matter of social justice, of equality. Hence, being here today is not coincidental, it’s not just my merit or that of a few individuals, but the outcome of the relentless struggle fought by numerous resilient women over centuries, conquering fear and building a network among ourselves,” she remarked.
She stressed the importance of empathy, listening, and understanding others’ suffering within the Common Council, calling for “a robust network” of social services across all institutions to meet citizens’ needs.
Padrón, compelled to relinquish her affiliation with PSOE due to her new role’s requisites, defined herself as “independent and liberated,” advocating for rights, citizenship, and especially vulnerable individuals.
Emphasising her “calling and enthusiasm” for public service, she highlighted the “unacceptable delays” in processing files for disability recognition and reviews, labelling it as a “crucial matter.”
She also raised concerns about the “alarming rise” in cases of gender-based violence and the Canary Islands’ leadership in mental health issues, calling for the recruitment of more specialists. “Diagnosis, prevention, assistance, and support are imperative duties of public administration, forming a network of avenues for which I seek engagement and backing from today onwards,” she indicated.
On the topic of housing, she noted that it has evolved into an “unreachable luxury” for families in the archipelago, deeming it a “figment” for the island’s youth who struggle to embark on their life projects.
“The time for introspection and self-critique by administrations has long arrived,” she iterated.
“INTELLECT AND COMPASSION” IN ADDRESSING IMMIGRATION
Concerning immigration, she commended the initiative of Artenara City Council (Gran Canaria) for accommodating 30 immigrant children aged 4 to 11 in a “sympathetic, informed, and humane” act last week, which enrolled new pupils in the municipality’s unitary school previously having only seven students. “Solutions are attainable with determination,” she added.
She suggested that with a blend of “intellect and heart,” immigration could evolve into an “opportunity” for the Canary Islands.
The President of the Canary Islands’ Parliament, Astrid Pérez, offered a “genuine and effective” commendation to Lola Padrón Rodríguez as the first Common Deputy in history, attributing her “knowledge and experiences” as providing “full assurance” to take on this challenge.
She highlighted that the Common Council represents the ultimate point of contact for this community’s citizens, mentioning that public confidence in it has continuously grown since its establishment in 1986, at the onset of Luis Cobiella’s tenure when only 270 complaints were registered, compared to over 3,000 now.
The President paid special tribute to Rafael Yanes for his “diligent, precise, and impartial work over the last six years, maintaining approachability and compassion throughout.”
Simultaneously, she acknowledged the discreet and often unrecognized efforts of Diputación del Común’s public officials, akin to the deputies’ contributions.
