The PALCA association has issued a statement denouncing that the vast majority of banana producers on the island have not yet received 81% of the aid intended to compensate for these extra expenses. This amount, exceeding 9 million euros, has been officially acknowledged as a debt by the Administration itself.
This aid was recognized by an Order from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty, published on the bulletin board on April 16, 2024. However, only 19% of the total production overcosts borne by farmers, amounting to 2,092,030.57 euros, was granted, leaving the remaining 81% pending payment. That is, the Administration itself recognizes that most of these costs remain unpaid.
Given this situation, PALCA finds the delay incomprehensible, especially considering that, according to the budget execution data from the Government of the Canary Islands, over 1 billion euros annually were left unexecuted in 2024 and 2025. The association suggests that the lack of payment is not due to a shortage of resources, but rather a potential lack of foresight.
Furthermore, the organization recalls that the counselor for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, Animal Welfare, and Food Sovereignty of the Cabildo de La Palma pledged, during meetings held in the first half of last year with various agricultural organizations, to secure the necessary funds to complete these aid payments. However, to date, no progress or effective solution has been made.
La Palma's banana farmers cannot keep waiting. This is a fair, recognized, and pending debt.
PALCA demands that the competent administrations immediately pay the remaining 9 million euros, fulfill publicly made commitments, and ensure effective and responsible action from the public officials involved.
