The Minister of Social Welfare, Candelaria Delgado, stated this Monday that the Canarian executive will not tolerate the new community regulations turning the archipelago into a "prison" for migrants. This declaration was made before chairing the Canarian Immigration Forum, a meeting attended by the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Francisco Candil, the Director General of Social Services, Elisabet Santana, and representatives from various NGOs.
“"What we want from the Spanish State is for it to tell us exactly how it affects us and if the interests of the Canary Islands are being defended in this European pact."
The main concern is the possibility that the Canary Islands, being the main southern gateway to the European Union, could become the most accessible point of containment for migrants denied asylum and awaiting repatriation. The lack of detailed information on how "initial reception" and waiting areas for return will be managed creates uncertainty.
Juan Carlos Lorenzo, coordinator of the Spanish Commission for Refugee Aid (CEAR) in the Canary Islands, shared Delgado's concern, highlighting the scarcity of clarity regarding the practical implications of the pact. Lorenzo warned of the risk that return might not be feasible, transforming the islands into a prolonged detention space. The current humanitarian assistance system, which includes initial reception in the islands and subsequent transfer to the mainland, could be affected from June.
“"There is a risk that return will not be an option and, therefore, the Canary Islands will become a retention area."
Furthermore, Lorenzo emphasized concerns about the potential return of migrants to countries with no ties or where human rights are questionable, which could lead to a "commodification of rights." Regarding unaccompanied minor migrants, Minister Delgado confirmed that transfers to the rest of the national territory "continue" as established, although pending the publication of a new decree to streamline procedures.
