Firefighters Warn of Drastic Staffing Cuts in Las Palmas
Firefighters in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria staged a protest at the town hall during a municipal session, highlighting a severe staffing crisis. The team, joining cleaners on their first day of strike, expressed concerns over the city’s emergency response capabilities, citing insufficient personnel and dire working conditions.
For over three years, the local fire department (SEIS) has highlighted a staffing level deemed inadequate for a city of its size. Only one out of three fire stations is currently operational daily, with the Vegeta station closed since last year. City officials have stated that closures occur when personnel is unavailable.
The firefighters’ sole operational station is in Miller Bajo, described by them as being in a “totally lamentable” state. Issues include visible damage to the fire tower, leaks, mould, and dilapidated facilities, making conditions unsafe for staff and the public.
Raúl Esclarín, a chief officer and union representative, compared the station to a “horror castle,” emphasising the urgent need for renovations that have faced bureaucratic delays despite a promised budget of €2.1 million. This funding has been stagnant for two years with no significant progress made.
Currently, UGT estimates that the city should have around 175 firefighters on duty daily, yet only about 80 are available now, with more set to leave soon. Concerns are growing that only four or five firefighters will be on duty over the summer, risking public safety in a city of 400,000 residents.
City officials refute these claims, stating there are 109 firefighters currently, which they argue is roughly 80% of the target staffing level. Recent promotions have added 32 new firefighters, yet ongoing issues with long-term sick leave among staff remain unresolved.
In response to heavy criticism, the city claims to have improved resources, investing in new vehicles and equipment. However, many firefighters remain sceptical, suggesting that without addressing staffing levels and conditions, these improvements may not adequately resolve the challenges faced in emergency response.
