Unions Sue Icod de los Vinos Council Over Ignored Safety and Training Demands

Unions have taken legal action against the Icod de los Vinos City Council because their requests for updated equipment, uniforms, and mandatory police training have been ignored.

The CSIF and UGT unions filed a formal appeal on November 11 after the council failed to respond to a similar request made in June.

The unions highlighted that police officers are legally required to undergo shooting practice every six months and training with other defensive equipment annually. This is in line with a Canary Islands decree from March 2020. Reports suggest officers haven't had these essential training sessions for eighteen months.

The CSIF stated that the council's failure to comply not only breaks the law but also puts officers' safety at risk and hinders their ability to perform their jobs effectively. They also pointed out that this training should be part of regular working hours, or officers should receive extra pay or time off. Not providing this could be a serious breach of workplace safety regulations.

The appeal also addresses the need for regular provision of personal protective equipment, uniforms, and footwear. Some officers have reportedly been working with damaged clothing and old boots.

Under workplace safety laws, the council is responsible for ensuring officers have the necessary protective gear when risks cannot be otherwise managed. The CSIF emphasized that local police officers have public-facing roles that require proper, up-to-date uniforms, safety equipment like bulletproof vests and gloves, and other gear to ensure their well-being.

Finally, the unions are requesting an urgent meeting to discuss how and when these obligations will be met.