The initiators express disappointment over the slow and impersonal reconstruction process in La Palma following the ‘Tajogaite’ eruption
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, June 12. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Plenary Session of the Parliament of the Canary Islands unanimously approved on Wednesday the initiation of the parliamentary process for the volcano legislation, a popular legislative proposal supported by over 19,000 signatures.
Juan González, the spokesperson for the committee promoting the volcano legislation, has emphasised that this law will provide rights to those impacted by volcanic eruptions on the islands and cautioned that preparedness is key as more eruptions are expected before the end of the century.
He stated that the volcano’s impacts have been “devastating” on the island and believes that the law highlights a “failure” on the part of political parties, as it encompasses the same aspects as an “action plan” that was presented to all parties and institutions. “They did not listen to us,” she elaborated.
González highlighted that the legislation is “by the people, for the people” after a “prolonged, depersonalised bureaucratic process lacking empathy” where decisions were made by various administrations without coordination among them.
He also criticised the “insufficient” economic aid, denounced the lack of “political unity”, and pointed out that roads were prioritised over housing, with outstanding expropriation payments.
The initiators support the latest decrees approved in Parliament as they ensure the construction of housing and financial compensation for the losses incurred, but they believe that their legislation is equally “vital.”
He lamented the “slowness and depersonalisation” of the reconstruction process and the absence of a mental health strategy on the island, emphasising that electoral considerations should not take precedence.
Raúl Acosta (AHI) from the Mixed Group stated that this legislation is essential as future volcanic eruptions are anticipated, asserting the need to meticulously refine it to avoid redundancies across administrations.
Jesús Ramos (ASG) pointed out that the legislation should be a “living tool” subject to modifications over time to prevent it from becoming outdated, highlighting the Canary Islands’ solidarity with the affected individuals and the use of policy to address challenges.
Javier Nieto (Vox) expressed regret over the inaction of political groups in the previous term due to the absence of a legal framework and acknowledged that certain sections of the initial text may need revision, cautioning against it being stripped of substance.
Luis Campos, spokesperson for NC-BC, warned that future eruptions will have a similar impact on the island’s population, urging the need to “learn from experience” and avoid haphazard decision-making.
PP: Legislation that Ensures Inclusivity
Jacob Qadri (PP) commended the initiators for striving to address the volcanological crisis, highlighting the administrations’ inadequacy in tackling such issues. “It must be legislation that includes everyone and looks towards the future,” he remarked.
Jonathan De Felipe, from the Nationalist Group, emphasised the emergence of a popular initiative law stemming from a “political setback” which garnered almost 20,000 signatures due to its “boldness, courage, and resilience.” “There is a promising future for the island of La Palma,” he remarked.
Alicia Vanoostende (PSOE) congratulated the initiators of the proposal as it will benefit “all Canaries”, acknowledging the “sacrifices” of the affected individuals and the “triumphs and mistakes” of the process.
She noted that the Parliament has acknowledged the legislation and criticised the groups supporting the Government for dismissing over 23,000 ILP signatures on those impacted by the tourism legislation.
