The protest, organized by a port union, arose from concerns about the imminent arrival of the MV Hondius, a ship carrying individuals who had contact with hantavirus-infected persons. Demonstrators reported a lack of detailed information regarding the operation scheduled for Sunday, causing anxiety among the 55 employees at the port of Granadilla.

The workers felt "disregarded" by the Port Authority, which did not respond to their request for clear "safety protocols." The mobilization, which gathered about twenty people according to local media and over a hundred according to organizers, was held under slogans such as "We are not bananas" and "We want work, not illness."

The concern was not only focused on port personnel but also on the island's population, including healthcare staff and their families, who might be needed in case of an emergency on the ship. Additionally, the scarcity of tugboats and insufficient logistics for supplying provisions to the cruise ship were highlighted, as was the lack of clarity regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in Foreign Health procedures.

However, it was clarified that no worker dependent on the Port Authority would be directly involved in the evacuation, care, or repatriation of the Hondius's passengers and crew. A different union assured that "no worker" would have "any contact" and that, if necessary, PPE such as masks, gloves, goggles, and disposable suits would be provided.