Concern Grows in Canary Islands Over EU Budget Negotiations
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 29 September – The President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, has expressed significant worry following a meeting with Ireland’s Secretary of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne. The discussions focused on ongoing negotiations regarding the future Multiannual Financial Framework of the European Union.
Clavijo stated that reaching an agreement may not be straightforward, particularly as the Canary Islands government lacks information about Spain’s stance in the negotiations. He emphasised the unique status of the Canary Islands as Spain’s sole outermost region, raising concerns that the upcoming EU budget could leave the archipelago in a vulnerable position.
This uncertain outlook compels the Canary Islands to intensify efforts to preserve specific funding for the period from 2028 to 2034. Clavijo remarked that Ireland’s presidency of the EU Council presents an opportunity to advocate for the distinct needs of outermost regions and secure necessary European resources.
During the meeting, Clavijo articulated the demands of the Canary Islands and other outermost regions, hoping to ensure a differentiated financial treatment within the new budget framework. He noted that the current EU proposal appears to dissolve specific aid for these regions into national funds handled by each member state.
Both Clavijo and Agriculture Minister Narvay Quintero informed Byrne about the potential threats to the local primary sector should the vital support from EU funds be lost. They urged Ireland to back negotiations aimed at safeguarding and updating the essential financial provisions in the upcoming budget.
The talks also aimed to strengthen existing economic and scientific ties between Ireland and the Canary Islands, exploring new avenues for cooperation. Clavijo shared insights on the strategic role of outermost regions, as highlighted in the EU’s recent RUP strategy, introduced on 10 September.
This recognition could open doors for collaboration in areas such as energy, blue economy, innovation, and partnerships with neighbouring countries, benefiting Irish businesses. The Canary Islands government is keen to support Irish institutions seeking to develop projects in the African Atlantic region, leveraging connections to companies in Cape Verde, Mauritania, Senegal, and Morocco.
Clavijo pointed out that the archipelago could serve as a strategic base for businesses looking to expand into West Africa, an opportunity that has already attracted interest from several Irish companies in recent years.
The Canary government delegation included Spain’s Ambassador to Ireland, Teresa Lizaranzu, who met with Clavijo earlier in the week to discuss the objectives of his official visit to Dublin and garner support for the islands’ strategy under Ireland’s rotating presidency of the EU Council.
Clavijo’s official visit to Ireland will conclude on Wednesday with a meeting with Adam O Ceallaigh, Director of OILEÁN, which supports island participation in UN forums on environmental, ocean, and sustainable development issues. The delegation will also meet with Professor Frank ÓMara, Director of Ireland’s Agricultural and Food Development Authority (TEAGASC), and Glen Nolan, Director of the Marine Institute.
