SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 3 Sep. (EUROPA PRESS) –

Investigation Request by Vox

Vox, through its spokesperson in the Canary Islands Parliament, Nicasio Galván, has lodged a complaint with the Maritime Captaincy to investigate whether the Open Arms NGO vessel, which has docked in Tenerife for outreach activities concerning migratory routes, meets all technical and safety requirements.

Potential Deficiencies

Should any “deficiencies, absences, or non-compliance” be uncovered, they are calling for the vessel to be halted and its services suspended, whether for activities, search and rescue operations, or both.

Concerns Over Safety

The party asserts that the ship poses a “high risk,” both due to its age and the company’s history (FUNDACIÓN PROA-PROACTIVA). The vessel is over 12 years old, and in the last five years, it has faced several immobilisations and penalties for defects affecting the ship, crew, or its operations.

In fact, the complaint highlights that the company considered replacing the vessel within its fleet.

Lack of Authorisation for Rescues

Furthermore, they indicate that there is “no record” of the Spanish Government authorising Open Arms to conduct rescues in the Atlantic Ocean or any other sea. In 2018 and 2019, it even acknowledged that Open Arms lacked permission to perform rescues in the Mediterranean, incurring fines of up to €901,000.

State Authority Responsibility

Vox also asserts that search and rescue activities are “the responsibility and competence of state authorities, with no private entities permitted to intervene.” This refers to the agreement signed with the Canary Islands Government, which allows for intervention in rescuing migrant vessels if requested.

Concerns About Education Activities

Additionally, regarding recreational, educational, or informational activities primarily aimed at children and students, they view it as a “risk” for attendees. They argue that the technical, navigational, crew, safety, ancillary services, and other requirements “are not the same” for a training ship as they are for a vessel engaged in passenger and cargo transport.