The Canary Islands will “tear up” the tourism rulebook and introduce a host of new laws ahead of mass protests from activists who want to crackdown on UK tourists
Lanzarote and Tenerife are set to “tear up” the tourism rulebook, launching a crackdown on UK holidaymakers with new laws amidst growing protests. Demonstrations have been escalating across Spain, with locals protesting against tourists in the Canary Islands within the European Union.
Activists have pledged to invade popular tourist spots, disrupt public events and “confront political leaders”.
A fresh campaign is due to commence from May 18. “From now on, we will take our fight to the very spaces where their predatory model is perpetuated,” declared activist group Canarias tiene un límite (The Canaries Have a Limit).
“We will boycott public events, confront political leaders during their appearances and occupy symbolic tourist spaces to make it clear that we will not stop until real change is achieved.
“The Canary Islands can no longer be a postcard backdrop for the enjoyment of a privileged few,” the statement read. In a separate warning, the group said: “This cry, which reflects the feelings of a people tired of being ignored and mistreated, will be the beginning of a new stage of struggle: firmer, more direct, more uncomfortable for those who refuse to listen to us and take real measures.”, reports Birmingham Live.
Alfonso Cabello, spokesperson for the regional government, stated: “We’re doing this the Canary Islands way – extending a hand and listening to everyone.”
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Jessica de León, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Tourism and Employment, highlighted the importance of safeguarding the quality of life for residents. She emphasised, “The new regulation must align with today’s social and environmental realities, correcting outdated elements and integrating changes from national and regional rulings, including Constitutional Court decisions,”.
In response, one Brit expressed empathy for the islanders: “You have to feel some sympathy with the Islanders, they need tourism but they need the right kind of tourism. All inclusive kills the local economy however at the same time they need to manage the costs charged and the amount of tourists that can be on the island at the same time.”
Another chimed in with a preference for domestic travel: “I’m glad I spend my money in Britain each year. The North Yorkshire Moors, Whitby, Scarborough, and the famous NYMR (Railway) is worth a visit.”
A third commenter suggested a solution to the housing issue: “If the various branches of The Canarian Govt could manage a building programme to house residents into may be a way forward. Even simpler, limit air bnb properties at any one time to a very small % of housing stock available.”