Tenerife Council Faces Backlash Over Controversial "Tenerife Day" Spending and Scheduling
The Tenerife Council faces political backlash and scrutiny over the 70,314-euro cost and rushed organization of the inaugural "Tenerife Day," which critics argue bypassed public bidding processes and conflicts with traditional religious festivities.
The Tenerife Council’s decision to establish "Tenerife Day" has triggered a wave of political and administrative controversy. The initiative, championed by President Rosa Dávila, has drawn criticism for both its timing—which clashes with the long-standing Virgin of Candelaria festivities—and its inaugural price tag, which reached 70,314 euros, exceeding initial estimates.
Financial records show that the event’s budget was split into numerous smaller contracts, a move that allowed the Council to bypass the standard public bidding process. Under current regulations, contracts under 15,000 euros (excluding taxes) do not require the usual three comparative quotes. Most invoices were kept just under this threshold, with two exceptions: the artistic direction, awarded to Pantalla Canaria SL for 15,588.89 euros, and the rental of the Adán Martín Auditorium, which cost 16,479 euros but falls under different regulations as a public asset.
The remaining funds were spread across various providers for technical, artistic, and promotional services. Major expenses included performances by Compañía Pieles (8,025 euros), Celso Albelo (3,675 euros), and Miriam Reyes (1,605 euros). Additional spending covered photography, trophies, and media coverage across several local outlets.
The event was organized with notable speed. On January 28th, the Island Government Council approved the celebration via an emergency procedure added to the agenda at the last minute. While the ruling coalition (Coalición Canaria and the Partido Popular) supported the move, opposition members have criticized the haste, questioning the political motives behind the event and the use of public funds.
Mari Brito, the Mayor of Candelaria, has publicly opposed the scheduling, labeling the overlap with the religious holiday as a political maneuver. Beyond the financial concerns, the debate highlights growing tension over the creation of new institutional celebrations that mirror the long-established Canary Islands Awards. Critics argue that the Cabildo is prioritizing its own image through these events, even as the island faces urgent needs regarding its infrastructure.