The Socialist Group in the Lanzarote Cabildo has denounced a lack of transparency and the intention of President Oswaldo Betancort to shorten the citizen participation period regarding a matter of utmost importance: the Draft Management Use Plan (PRUG) for the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park.

The document, currently in the environmental consultation phase, was put out for public exposure on 7th July for a duration 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 August is an inactive month for citizen participation, thus the deadline should extend until 7th October.

Concerns Raised by Socialist Spokesperson

Socialist spokesperson Ariagona González warned that the island government “seeks to operate behind the backs of the public, reducing participation periods and limiting transparency in a process crucial for the future of La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago.” She further cautioned that “the lack of legal guarantees could jeopardise the validity of the document, as was the case with the previous PRUG, which was annulled by the courts in 2016. We cannot allow history to repeat itself by not adhering to the law.”

Assurance of Formal Objections

The PSOE of Lanzarote has confirmed that it will submit formal objections within the appropriate timeframe. However, they emphasise that their request aims to protect associations, groups, and individuals who, due to the technical complexity and summer period, may be at a disadvantage when formulating their contributions.

“August is practically an inactive month, during which most groups and administrations have limited capacity to respond. Shortening the deadline undermines citizens’ right to participate in discussions that impact a natural space of immense value, part of the Biosphere Reserve and the Geopark of Lanzarote,” González stated.

Call for Extended Public Exposure Period

Consequently, the socialists have submitted a request demanding that the public exposure period be extended until 7th October, in compliance with legal requirements and ensuring the legal security of a document essential for the future of the Chinijo Archipelago.