Urgent Appeal for Enhanced Housing Solutions for Tourism Employees in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

In the vibrant city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a pressing call for action has emerged, highlighting the critical need for improved housing accessibility for workers in the tourism sector. This initiative has garnered support from key hospitality associations and trade unions, all advocating for immediate measures to address the housing challenges faced by employees in this essential industry.

The hospitality associations Ashotel and AERO, in collaboration with trade unions Sindicalistas de Base Canarias (SBC) and UGT Canarias, have come together to push for significant changes that would enhance the availability of housing for tourism workers. Their united front underscores the urgency of the situation, as many employees struggle to find suitable and affordable accommodation in a city that thrives on tourism.

Impact of Unregulated Holiday Rentals

Ashotel has issued a statement outlining the detrimental effects of unregulated holiday rentals on the local housing market. They argue that while holiday rentals are a legitimate form of accommodation, the absence of effective regulations exacerbates the existing housing crisis. The association emphasizes the need for these rentals to be governed by the same standards as other tourism services, which would help to preserve the availability of residential housing for local residents.

The unchecked growth of holiday rentals has led to a significant reduction in the stock of available housing, making it increasingly difficult for tourism workers to secure a place to live. This situation not only impacts the workers but also threatens the overall stability of the tourism sector, as a lack of affordable housing can lead to workforce shortages and increased turnover rates.

Legislative Developments on the Horizon

In light of these challenges, the organizations involved are optimistic about the potential for forthcoming legislation aimed at regulating the Tourist Use of Housing. This legislation is currently under review by the Parliament of the Canary Islands and is seen as a pivotal step towards addressing the housing crisis. The proposed regulations are designed to control commercial activities related to holiday rentals and to limit the conversion of residential properties into tourist accommodations.

Such legislative measures are viewed as essential for alleviating the housing crisis on the Islands. By imposing restrictions on the transformation of residential properties into holiday rentals, the government can help ensure that a sufficient supply of housing remains available for local residents, particularly those employed in the tourism sector. The success of this legislation could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.

Importance of the Tourism Sector for Local Employment

The tourism industry plays a crucial role in the economy of the Canary Islands, employing approximately 140,000 individuals across the archipelago. In Tenerife alone, about 76,000 workers are engaged in various roles within this sector. However, many of these employees encounter significant difficulties in finding affordable housing, which directly impacts their job opportunities and overall quality of life.

The struggle for housing stability among tourism workers is not just a personal issue; it has broader implications for the local economy. When workers are unable to secure affordable housing, it can lead to increased turnover rates and a shortage of skilled labor in the tourism sector. This, in turn, can affect the quality of service provided to tourists, potentially harming the reputation of Santa Cruz de Tenerife as a premier travel destination.

As the city continues to attract visitors from around the globe, addressing the housing needs of its tourism workforce becomes increasingly vital. Ensuring that these workers have access to affordable and stable housing is essential for maintaining the health and sustainability of the tourism industry in the region.

Key points

• Ashotel and AERO, in collaboration with SBC and UGT Canarias, are advocating for improved housing access for tourism workers.
• The lack of regulation on holiday rentals is significantly contributing to the housing crisis in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Upcoming legislation aims to regulate the Tourist Use of Housing and restrict the conversion of residential properties into holiday rentals.
• Approximately 140,000 workers are employed in the tourism sector across the Canary Islands, highlighting the industry’s importance to the local economy.
• Of these, 76,000 workers are based in Tenerife, many of whom are struggling to find affordable housing options.