LA OROTAVA (TENERIFE), 4 (EUROPA PRESS)
The Minister of Social Rights, Consumption and Agenda 2030, Pablo Bustinduy, labelled the continuation of the blockade on the distribution of unaccompanied migrant minors as “incomprehensible and indefensible” during a statement on Friday, following the urgent request made by the Government of the Canary Islands.
In comments to reporters after visiting a school eco-dining facility in Tenerife, he articulated his hope that “the partisan game can be set aside, and that short-term strategies and interests are paused, allowing for cooperation and collaboration to deliver the response that this situation requires.”
In this vein, he asserted that “the public would not comprehend anything else” and he believes it is “clear” that “mutual assistance” and “responsibility” are necessary to formulate an appropriate resolution to the immigration challenges currently confronting the Canary Islands.
Consequently, he noted that the central government has been working for “months” to establish mechanisms whereby all organisations, institutions, and autonomous regions “shoulder their responsibilities” and contribute to “offering a considerate solution” to the upholding of human rights.
Bustinduy reminded listeners that Spain welcomed 200,000 individuals from Ukraine “without all this uproar or these blocking strategies.”
“We did it because it was our obligation. There is no distinction with this situation, and I hope that common sense prevails, that everyone fulfills their responsibilities, plays their part and thus enables us to provide a solution grounded in solidarity and mutual support for the predicament that the Canary Islands are currently facing,” he emphasised.
He additionally stressed that Spain has “responsibilities” under international human rights law, highlighting that this issue is not merely about “charity or being kind-hearted,” but rather about “fulfilling” the international obligations that Spain has undertaken.
