The Socialist Party (PSOE) in Teguise successfully obtained unanimous approval for its motion to revive the traditional cultivation of cochineal in Guatiza and Mala during this month’s ordinary council meeting. Socialist councillor Jenifer Galán stated, “Cochineal is part of our history, landscape, and identity, and we cannot allow it to disappear, nor the state of many of its farms.”
Unanimous Support for the Motion
The Socialist proposal passed unanimously, with a minor amendment to urge the Cabildo of Lanzarote to allocate employment plans and resources for the recovery of farms linked to this centuries-old crop.
Concerns Over Tradition at Risk
Galán emphasised that the Mexican cochineal plague and the lack of generational succession “have jeopardised more than 200 years of tradition and a landscape that is a hallmark of Lanzarote.”
Three Key Objectives
The socialist initiative outlines three main objectives: to allocate employment plans for the recovery of farms, to establish specific financial provisions for the primary sector to study and promote cochineal, and to encourage participatory projects in the localities of Guatiza and Mala.
“Reviving cochineal is not just an economic issue; it is about identity, landscape, and sustainability. It is a commitment to our own history, to a feature that makes us unique and distinguishes us from other places,” Galán highlighted.
Commitment to Action
In conclusion, the Socialist Group reiterated its commitment to monitor the agreement passed at the council to ensure it is implemented at the Cabildo, leading to concrete actions that support the revitalisation of an agricultural activity admired by residents and visitors alike throughout history.
