“They are attempting to limit citizen participation: The public consultation period must be extended until 7th October as mandated by law”
The Socialist Group in the Lanzarote Cabildo has condemned the lack of transparency and the intention of President Oswaldo Betancort to shorten the timelines for citizen participation on a matter of utmost significance, namely the Draft Management and Use Plan (PRUG) for the Natural Park of the Chinijo Archipelago.
The document, currently in the environmental consultation phase, was made public on 7th July for a period of two months, which would conclude on 7th September. However, the Law 4/2017 on Land and Protected Natural Spaces in the Canary Islands clearly states that the month of August is inoperative for the purposes of citizen participation, meaning the deadline should be extended to 7th October.
Concerns Over Transparency
Socialist spokesperson in the Cabildo, Ariagona González, warned that the island government “intends to act behind the back of the citizens, reducing participation timelines and limiting transparency in a process vital for the future of La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago.” She also cautioned that “the lack of legal guarantees could jeopardise the validity of the document. This happened with the previous PRUG, which was annulled by the courts in 2016. We cannot allow the same situation to recur by failing to comply with the law.”
Protection for Stakeholders
The PSOE of Lanzarote clarified that they will present objections within the appropriate timeframe, emphasising that their demand aims to protect associations, groups, and individuals who, due to the technical complexity and summer period, may be at a disadvantage when trying to submit their contributions.
“August is also practically an inactive month, during which most groups and administrations have reduced capacity for response. Shortening the timeline curtails citizens’ right to participate in a discussion that affects a natural space of immense value, part of the Biosphere Reserve and the Geopark of Lanzarote,” González stated.
Formal Request for Extension
As a result, the Socialists have submitted a formal request demanding that the public consultation period be extended until 7th October, ensuring compliance with legal standards and guaranteeing the legal security of a document crucial for the future of the Chinijo Archipelago.
