Canary Islands President Critiques Failed Conference of Presidents, Calls for Action on Migrant Minors
Fernando Clavijo, the President of the Government of the Canary Islands, has sharply criticized the recent Conference of Presidents, labeling it a widespread failure of democracy due to the absence of agreements. His comments come amidst rising tensions regarding the treatment of unaccompanied migrant minors in Spain.
In a control session at the Plenary of Parliament, Clavijo responded to inquiries from AHI, Vox, and PSOE concerning the central government’s lack of initiative alongside Partido Popular (PP) governed communities in establishing a national reception system for these vulnerable children. He expressed disappointment that the political climate in Madrid has become tense and fractious, contrasting it sharply with the more cooperative atmosphere in the Canary Islands, and lamented that his delegation's experience at the summit held in Barcelona was worse than anticipated.
Adding to the concern, Clavijo revealed that Pilar Cancela, the Secretary of State for Immigration, has reached out to the Government of the Canary Islands to arrange a meeting aimed at finding solutions for the asylum-seeking minors. Despite this outreach, Clavijo conveyed skepticism about the central government's political will to foster meaningful agreements on migration issues. He indicated that without judicial intervention, the humanitarian crisis affecting the islands might persist unmanaged.
Clavijo critically noted that the current state of affairs has emerged due to the government’s inaction, despite two Supreme Court rulings and one Constitutional Court ruling that remain unfulfilled. He voiced confusion over why opposition parties are being blamed when it is the ruling government that appears to be shirking its responsibilities. Reaffirming his commitment to the residents of the Canary Islands, Clavijo stated that he would not hesitate to challenge any autonomous community legally if laws are being violated, underscoring his administration’s priority for the welfare of children.
In response to Clavijo's statements, PSOE representatives accused him of being complicit with the Popular Party’s political maneuvering. They critiqued the Conference of Presidents as a mere photo opportunity, arguing it was exploited by PP to undermine the government while perpetuating privileges for separatist regions and undermining the fundamental rights of children in need.
Sebastián Franquis, the PSOE spokesperson, expressed disdain for the lack of leadership exhibited by Clavijo and criticized him for ignoring the realities facing the islands. He pointed out that agreements made by the PP in autonomous communities directly impact the transfer of minors and suggested that Clavijo’s response reflects his inadequacy to handle the national political arena effectively.
As political conflict continues to unravel the discussions surrounding migration policies and the welfare of minors seeking refuge, the Canary Islands remain at the forefront of this humanitarian issue. Clavijo’s assertions highlight the urgent need for collaborative governance and a robust national framework for the support and integration of unaccompanied minors in Spain.
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