The MP for the Canarian Nationalist Group (CCa), Jana González Alonso, addressed the regional Parliament to acknowledge the progress made in social inclusion in the islands while emphasising that significant challenges remain. González highlighted advancements in the fight against poverty in the Canary Islands but warned of ongoing issues.
Creation of the Canarian Citizenship Income
González reminded attendees that the previous legislative term saw the establishment of the Canarian Citizenship Income, a key tool that initially faced a backlog of applications at the start of the current mandate. In her view, the efforts of the regional government have improved indicators of exclusion and poverty, as reflected in the latest national report on minimum incomes, which indicates a reduction in the AROPE rate in the Canary Islands.
Increased Funding and Employment Plans
The parliamentarian praised the government’s move to bolster funding for benefits in 2025, alongside activating an employment plan to expedite applications. However, she cautioned that the absence of a general budget for 2026 could impact the development of social policies, urging for an increase in human and financial resources in the area of social rights.
Cross-Government Action Necessary
During her speech, she also emphasised the importance of cross-government action. She cited examples such as housing programmes, rental assistance, and young mortgage support, along with educational measures including free school meals, support for purchasing learning materials, and expanded university scholarships.
Concerns Over Educational Levels
In this last regard, González expressed concern over the low educational levels of recipients of the income, noting that most do not have qualifications beyond primary education. She advocated that enhancing access to education is a strategic investment to break the cycle of poverty.
Launch of Social Support Pathways
Additionally, she announced the initiation of social support pathways to provide tools that enable the most vulnerable groups to improve their situations. She also called on the state to implement the compatibility of the Canarian income with non-contributory pensions, an agreement approved in Congress at CCa’s proposal, which González argued would enhance the dignity of many women who worked without contributions.
Focus on Child Poverty
Regarding child poverty, González urged the creation of a parliamentary study commission to design effective measures for the protection of at-risk children.
In conclusion, the MP thanked the work of social services staff, whose efforts, she said, are essential for consolidating a protection system that offers real opportunities to those facing the greatest economic difficulties in the islands.
