Paulo Ríos, a deputy representing the BNG (Galician Nationalist Bloc) in the Morrazo region, has raised alarms in Parliament regarding the future of Isla de Ons. He presented a motion aimed at ensuring the island's environmental protection and preserving its cultural identity, which he claims is under threat from government-led tourism initiatives.
Ríos accused the Partido Popular (PP) of pushing a rapid and reckless shift towards a tourism-centric economy, warning that the island is at risk of being transformed into a "tourist theme park" due to ongoing construction projects. He expressed concern that these developments are being carried out without public consultation or necessary environmental assessments.
"The local community is not considered in their plans for the touristification of the Atlantic Islands Park," Ríos stated, highlighting that Isla de Ons, which once had a population of 500 in the mid-20th century, was never intended to cater solely to tourism.
He questioned whether the PP believes that protecting the island involves concrete works that disrupt local businesses and residences, especially during adverse weather conditions. Ríos described the current construction efforts as "unnecessary" and lacking environmental merit, asserting that they do not enhance the quality of life for residents or address the island's ecological needs, but rather aim to attract more tourists.
Environmental organisations have echoed Ríos's concerns, arguing that the projects lack justification in terms of public interest and are causing significant difficulties for local hospitality businesses and residents alike. He lamented the ongoing neglect of historical demands from the community, such as improvements to water and electricity supplies and transport subsidies.
Ríos warned that the current approach of the Xunta, Galicia's regional government, appears to prioritise tourism exploitation over the rights and needs of the local population. He noted that residents are treated similarly to tourists, facing the same bureaucratic hurdles and costs when accessing their homes.
In response to these issues, the BNG has called for detailed documentation of recent construction projects on Isla de Ons, a reversal of harmful actions affecting the local community and businesses, and immediate improvements to basic services for residents. The community of Ons, which followed the parliamentary debate closely, remains committed to fighting for its rights and preserving its cultural heritage.
Ríos concluded by stating that the BNG will continue to advocate in Parliament for the community's interests, insisting that the government cannot overlook the needs of the local population.
