The president of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Davila, has assured this Wednesday that buses and trams will remain free in 2025, despite the rejection of the omnibus decree during the vote held today in the Congress of Deputies, which had previously approved this initiative, alongside an increase in pensions, with the combined votes from PP, Vox and Junts.
“The Cabildo of Tenerife guarantees complimentary public transport on both buses and trams, notwithstanding the political setback faced by Pedro Sánchez’s government when the royal decree, which unlocked funding for the Canary Islands to ensure free transport, was not passed,” stated Dávila.
The island president aimed to convey a sense of “calm” to public transport users in Tenerife. “You need not worry; we will continue our efforts to ensure that the funds reach our Island and that we do not bear the full cost of the millions generated by these free services.”
“Somewhat Concerned”
Meanwhile, the Canary Islands’ general director of Transport, María Fernández, admitted on Wednesday that they are “somewhat concerned” following the annulment of the omnibus decree and has urged the Ministry to explore “some alternative.”
Fernández has also highlighted that within the PGE “there exists a starting point” to maintain the gratuity. What has not been validated is the method of “how the funds are distributed,” prompting her to send a message of “reassurance,” given that efforts are being made to find solutions “through all possible channels.”
In fact, she noted that the 2024 funds were disbursed on December 28, demonstrating that “there is flexibility to adjust the current situation.” “We are coordinating with the councils and are awaiting guidance from the ministry.”
