Tenerife PSOE Challenges Cabildo Over Early Termination of Forest Fire Crews
The Tenerife PSOE has challenged the Cabildo’s decision to prematurely terminate the contracts of over 120 forest reinforcement workers, sparking a debate over whether fire prevention efforts should transition to a year-round model.
Forest management in Tenerife is back in the political spotlight after the local PSOE filed a complaint against the Cabildo. The party is challenging the decision to end the contracts of over 120 reinforcement workers managed by the public company Gesplan on October 30—nearly a month earlier than originally planned. The PSOE argues this will halt essential preventive maintenance work scheduled for the end of the year.
Tamara Raya, the island’s PSOE general secretary, warned that cutting these services is risky given the current climate crisis. She argued that forest protection should no longer be seasonal, as changing weather patterns have made traditional fire seasons less predictable. Consequently, she believes surveillance and fuel management should continue year-round, rather than being tied to rigid administrative schedules.
In response, the Cabildo defended its strategy, emphasizing a shift toward building a permanent, professional workforce. Officials stated that they have added 52 permanent staff members over the last two years to ensure consistent, year-round service. The administration explained that while external reinforcements are necessary during high-risk periods, they also serve as a training ground for new staff who often go on to join the permanent teams.
The island’s government also announced plans for new projects starting in early 2027, which will focus on reducing fire risks in strategic areas of the Corona Forestal.
This disagreement highlights the ongoing tension in the Canary Islands regarding how to best manage environmental emergencies. While the opposition pushes for continuous operations to combat the risks of rising temperatures, the Cabildo maintains that its priority is long-term stability through a permanent staff, using external support only as a seasonal supplement during peak fire months.