Canarian Inter-union Denounces “Serious Irregularities” in the Betancuria City Hall

Allegations of Workplace Harassment in Betancuria: A Call for Justice

In a troubling turn of events, the Intersindical Canaria union has publicly condemned the irregular practices and lack of impartiality surrounding a case of alleged workplace harassment at the Betancuria City Hall. The case involves a union member who has reportedly been subjected to unfair treatment that violates fundamental principles governing public administration.

The Whistleblower’s Courage

The whistleblower, a career civil servant, courageously alerted the administration to suspected irregularities in the awarding of minor contracts. On October 3, 2024, she officially requested that the workplace harassment protocol be activated, in line with her legal and ethical responsibilities. Rather than receiving the support she sought, her appeals were reportedly ignored. In fact, her work situation was allegedly manipulated and exposed, leading to an apparent attempt to discredit her character and professional integrity.

A Public Plenary Session’s Ethical Breach

On December 26, 2024, the Betancuria City Hall brought the sensitive matter affecting this employee into the public sphere during a municipal plenary session. The union criticizes the decision to publicly discuss such a delicate issue without ensuring confidentiality or upholding procedural impartiality. This public exposure not only breached ethical standards but also infringed upon the fundamental rights of the employee, creating an atmosphere rife with hostility and undue pressure.

Allegations Against the Mayor

Compounding these issues, Mayor Enrique Cerdeña is accused of encouraging city employees through private meetings and personal messages to sign a document containing allegations against the whistleblower. The union highlights that this document was filled with unfounded claims and was notably supported by employees who later received job benefits, raising concerns about potential ethical violations within the administration. Those who chose not to support the smear campaign reportedly faced termination or dismissal, further casting doubt on the legality and morality of these actions.

Media Exposure and Its Ramifications

Adding another layer to this controversy, the mayor provided an interview to the media outlet Onda Fuerteventura, publicly discussing the harassment case and potentially exacerbating the already fraught situation. By doing so, he has arguably placed the employee’s rights and presumption of innocence at further risk while contributing to a hostile media environment.

The Shift in Focus

What is particularly alarming about this situation is the apparent misdirection of resources. Instead of conducting a thorough investigation into the whistleblower’s claims regarding contract irregularities, it seems the City Hall has prioritized the discrediting of the employee. The union asserts that this strategic pivot is more about deflecting attention from the alleged wrongdoing than any genuine pursuit of truth.

Unanswered Questions

Since the whistleblower initially raised her concerns in October, both she and two other employees have formally documented instances of harassment implicating the mayor and the city secretary. Yet despite the gravity of these allegations, the harassment protocol has not been activated. This inaction stands in stark contrast to the swift initiation of procedures against the whistleblower, suggesting a deliberate strategy to undermine her credibility while avoiding scrutiny of the claims she raised.

The union has demanded an explanation for the deliberate and sensationalized exposure of a sensitive issue, characterizing it as a violation of confidentiality, impartiality, and fundamental rights. They are also calling for clarification on the alleged manipulation of employees, purportedly incentivized by pressure tactics.

Standing Up for Rights

Intersindical Canaria is advocating for the immediate activation of the harassment protocol and is pushing for an independent, thorough investigation into the claims surrounding the awarding of minor contracts. They emphasize the need for the administration to scrutinize recent dismissals and backs their firm stance against any retaliatory measures aimed at employees who chose ethical integrity over complicity.

Moreover, the union insists on halting any public discussions related to the case to respect the rights of the employee involved and uphold due process. They express concern that these developments serve to protect personal interests rather than prioritize justice and transparency.

A Broader Implication for Labor Rights

In light of these events, Intersindical Canaria reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding labor rights, promoting transparency in public management, and protecting employees from any form of abuse or manipulation. Their resolve underscores a crucial commitment to ensuring that all allegations are investigated rigorously to hold those responsible accountable and restore justice within the workplace.