Canary Islands Government Applauds New Sustainable Mobility Legislation

The Government of the Canary Islands has expressed its enthusiastic approval following the recent passage of the Sustainable Mobility Law by Congress. This landmark legislation guarantees free public land transport across the islands for the entire year of 2026, marking a significant step towards enhancing mobility for residents.

The Directorate General for Transport and Mobility played a crucial role in the development and refinement of this legislation, which is enshrined in the forty-third additional provision of the law. Their efforts reflect a commitment to improving transportation access and sustainability in the region.

Importance of the New Law

Maria Fernández, the Director General of Transport, emphasized that this law represents a historic acknowledgment of the rights of residents in the Canary Islands to enjoy sustainable mobility that is specifically tailored to their unique insular circumstances. She articulated that mobility should not be dictated by geographical constraints, highlighting that the establishment of free transport is not just a temporary measure but a legal and enduring provision that will benefit the community.

Fernández further noted that this initiative is a vital step towards achieving greater social equity, as it ensures that all residents, regardless of their location within the islands, have equal access to essential services. This includes vital areas such as employment, education, and healthcare, which are often challenging to reach due to the geographical layout of the islands.

Implementation Strategy and Financial Framework

The legislation stipulates that the Government of the Canary Islands must demonstrate the successful implementation of a 100% discount on public transport by January 31, 2026. This requirement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the law are realized in a timely manner. The law mandates that this free transport benefit be maintained throughout the entirety of 2026, providing residents with a reliable means of transportation.

In addition to the transport provisions, the law outlines a comprehensive financial support framework for local administrations and service management entities. This includes an advance of 65% of state aid during the year 2026, which is designed to facilitate the smooth implementation of the free transport initiative. Fernández highlighted that this financial backing enhances the principle of territorial cohesion and equal opportunities, allowing citizens to access essential services more easily.

Broader Legislative Developments

During the same plenary session that saw the Sustainable Mobility Law passed, an additional provision concerning maritime mobility also received overwhelming support, with 155 votes in favor. This provision aims to enhance connectivity between the islands and improve the overall mobility landscape in the region.

Moreover, a proposal related to railway infrastructure in Gran Canaria and Tenerife was approved, marking a significant milestone as it is the first time the strategic importance of this infrastructure has been officially recognized, along with the acknowledgment of funding from the State. This development signals a broader commitment to improving transportation options across various modes of travel within the Canary Islands.

Key points

• The Sustainable Mobility Law ensures free public transport in the Canary Islands for all of 2026.
• The Directorate General for Transport and Mobility was instrumental in drafting the law.
• Maria Fernández highlighted the law as a historic recognition of mobility rights for Canary Islanders.
• The law requires proof of a 100% discount implementation by January 31, 2026.
• Financial compensation for local administrations is included, with a 65% advance of state aid.
• Additional provisions for maritime mobility and railway infrastructure were also approved.