Tenerife Courts Face Operational Chaos Amid Judicial Overhaul

Tenerife's courts are already struggling with operational issues due to recent changes in the state's judicial system. These problems are occurring even before the new Courts of Instance are fully implemented in the main judicial districts of the Canary Islands, with the final phase set for the end of the year.

The situation in Arona, a key area for tourism and the economy in the south of the island, is particularly concerning. Workers and their union representatives, Intersindical Canarias, have lodged complaints with the Labor Inspectorate and the regional government's justice department. They've provided evidence of the difficult working conditions they face daily.

These issues include files piled on the floor, poorly maintained toilets, and a general lack of cleaning and upkeep. The union highlighted that staff are performing tasks outside their job descriptions, such as sorting and unpacking old court files. They also stated that the introduction of the Courts of Instance has caused significant stress and uncertainty for employees regarding their roles and locations.

The union further pointed out that job roles haven't been clearly defined, staffing levels haven't increased, and the current workload isn't being adequately considered.

In response, the regional administration acknowledged that while the Ministry, not the region, created the Courts of Instance, they are responsible for their implementation. They stated that the move in Arona happened just a week prior and that files are still being organized. They also mentioned that maintenance issues are being addressed as they arise and that cleaning problems related to the move are being resolved. A moving protocol is reportedly being followed.