The MP for the Nationalist Parliamentary Group, José Manuel Bermúdez, has appeared in the full session of the Parliament to discuss the objectives and current status of the forthcoming Tourism Law for the Canary Islands.
Key Objectives of the New Law
In his address, José Manuel Bermúdez emphasised that the Law must encompass several important concepts: quality over quantity; rehabilitation instead of further construction; equitable distribution of benefits and quality employment; the carrying capacity of our territory; energy transition and respect for our identity, among others. “The legislation should shift towards a model of sustainable tourism that is diverse, socially just, and respectful of Canary identity, moving completely away from the paradigm of unlimited growth,” he added.
Tourism’s Economic Impact
According to Bermúdez, “this Parliament, the institutions, and the sector itself have long been calling for a legislative framework that provides stability and legal security.” He also highlighted that tourism contributes nearly 37% of the Canary Islands’ GDP, while coexisting with various pressures such as the lack of affordable housing for locals, infrastructure strain, and social unrest that must be heard and addressed, “as I understand the Government of the Canary Islands is doing.”
Calls for Comprehensive Legislation
In this regard, the MP and Mayor of Santa Cruz de Tenerife underscored the importance of having a law “that lays the foundation for the tourism model of the Canary Islands for the coming decades.”
The Coalición Canaria parliamentarian noted that his party believes this new law must meet several key conditions: providing legal security and clarity in regulations to avoid improvised actions; achieving a balance between economy, society, and the environment; and ensuring competitiveness alongside social and environmental sustainability, “which is fundamental for the survival of our territory because without territory, there is no tourism.”
Need for Broad Participation
Furthermore, the nationalist MP stressed the necessity of broad and effective participation that includes island councils, municipalities, industry professionals, and the public. “We cannot afford to have a Law of this significance, which incorporates two previous regulations, emerge without consensus and listening,” he added.
Future of Tourism in the Canary Islands
Bermúdez emphasised issues like the complexity of residential developments and operational units. In his view, it is crucial to determine what type of tourism model is desired for the Canary Islands, “because this is not just another law.” The MP explained the need to adapt to new times and take firm steps “towards a sustainable, competitive model that respects this land and benefits its people.”
Conclusion: A Unique Opportunity
The mayor reiterated the importance of the legislation “to solidify the Canary Islands as an excellent, sustainable, and diverse destination, capable of attracting high-value tourism that coexists best with our territory and our people.” He argued that “we are in a great position to modernise the regulatory framework of the sector, to respond to citizens’ demands, and to organise the primary industry of the Canary Islands in the face of improvisation and uncertainty.”
In this vein, the Coalición Canaria MP extended his party’s hand to the councillor to create a solid, participatory, and useful law. Bermúdez concluded by advocating for a tourism model “that is competitive, sustainable, and respectful of this land and its people.”
