canary islands coastal law reform urgent

Canary Islands demand urgent reform of 1988 Coastal Law

Unprecedented parliamentary move

The coastline of the Canary Islands witnessed an unprecedented legislative move this Tuesday. The Parliament of the Canary Islands has approved an initiative demanding the Spanish Government urgently modify the 1988 Coastal Law. The proposal comes after decades of administrative and legal conflict that have threatened the survival of thousands of homes in traditional settlements, affected by national regulations that, according to affected groups and parliamentary factions, systematically ignore the geographical and cultural particularities of the islands.

The initiative positions the Canary Islands as the starting point for a necessary national reform to correct the effects of a law described as “unjust,” having failed for almost 40 years to address the social reality of a territory where the coastline is central to its identity.

Unusual cross-party unity

In a rare political scenario, the Partido Popular (PP) and the Partido Socialista (PSOE) have joined forces to drive this reform. The proposal, championed by PP deputy Jennifer Curbelo, focused on the suffering of families who have spent half a lifetime in legal battles to save their homes. Curbelo condemned that the current law “draws lines without any criteria,” generating deep legal uncertainty, and stressed that this fight is not about party labels, but about “justice and coherence.”

Meanwhile, the PSOE supported the measure, although it introduced a critical amendment. Socialist deputy Rafael Nogales argued that, in addition to looking to Madrid, the Canary Islands Government must develop its own powers through a regional law. Nogales reminded the chamber that the solution will not come from “declarations of intent” alone, but from implementing the tools already permitted by the Statute of Autonomy.

A roadmap for coastal self-governance

The final resolution from Parliament not only targets the Congress of Deputies but also establishes a roadmap for self-governance of the coastline. With the backing of Nueva Canarias (NC) – whose deputy Carmen Hernández welcomed the change in stance from the major parties – and the rest of the chamber’s forces, the following points were agreed:

Priority state reform: Urge the State to ensure the 1988 Law recognises the unique volcanic and social character of the Canary Islands.
Full transfer of powers: Demand the definitive completion of the transfer of powers regarding coastal management.
Own legislation: Promote a Canary Islands Coastal Law that provides stability for historic settlements.

Dissent and painful memories

Despite the general consensus, unanimity was broken on the point regarding the creation of a regional law, with Vox voting against. The debate was marked by the memory of traumatic demolitions, such as those suffered at Cho Vito beach in Candelaria. With this parliamentary action, the islands are sending a resounding message: the survival of traditional coastal settlements is a red line that requires a legal framework that is adapted, modern, and above all, respectful of the Canary Islanders’ deep-rooted connection to the sea.

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