Urgent Call for Action: Fishermen and Nautical Entrepreneurs Demand Immediate Safety Measures at Corralejo Harbour

Today, the Cofradía de Pescadores de Corralejo and the Asociación de Empresarios Náuticos de Fuerteventura took a significant step by formally petitioning Puertos Canarios for the immediate execution of essential safety projects at the northern port of Fuerteventura. They emphasize the urgency of improving the operational effectiveness and safety of this crucial location, highlighting the need for stronger protective measures for both recreational and fishing activities.

The Need for a Contradique

At the heart of their demands is the urgent construction of a contradique—a protective barrier that would shield the recreational and fishing zones of the Harbour. Currently, the infrastructure, including docks and vessels, remains vulnerable to unpredictable adverse weather events, which pose catastrophic risks to safety and operations.

Aftermath of December 2022 Tempest

This plea follows the aftermath of a destructive storm in December 2022 that wreaked havoc on the port’s infrastructure, leaving the area open to the forces of nature, especially storms rolling in from the east. Fishermen and professionals in the maritime industry have expressed serious concerns about ongoing risks, stating that the current conditions jeopardize not just the vessels’ safety, but also the overall integrity of the port and the local economy.

Economic and Reputational Risks

Beyond the immediate safety issues, the professionals warn of significant reputational damage that could befall the harbour, a pivotal tourist attraction in Corralejo. They assert that protecting the area should be treated not just as an improvement, but rather as a pressing obligation. The failure to act now could lead to yet more visible damage to the bay area, potentially scaring away tourists and impacting local business.

Recent Improvements: A Mixed Bag

While the Cofradía de Pescadores and the Asociación de Empresarios recognize that some improvements have been made in recent years—thanks to several conditioning projects—they believe these enhancements have not been adequate. As one of the busiest ports in the Canary Islands, generating substantial revenue for Puertos Canarios, they argue that reinvesting a portion of these earnings back into the port is not just beneficial but necessary.

Unaddressed Essential Needs

The organizations outline several essential projects that remain unexecuted, which include:

• Loading and Unloading Zones: Specifically designated areas for the safe transfer of fishing products from professional vessels.

• Operational Gas Station: The absence of a refueling station for boats forces users to rely on gas canisters, creating unnecessary hazards.

• Tourist Service Units: Tourist information booths are currently operated under makeshift conditions, providing a poor reflection of Corralejo’s tourism relevance.

• Restroom Facilities: Basic amenities are critical for both locals and visitors along the waterfront promenades.

• Parking Regulation: Designated parking for maritime professionals is essential for daily operations, enhancing safety for both workers and users.

Reactions to Potential Expansion Plans

The organizations have also addressed recent public announcements from Isaí Blanco, the mayor of La Oliva, regarding a proposed expansion of the port to elevate it to standards comparable to other facilities across the archipelago. While these initiatives are seen as positive steps, the fishermen and nautical professionals firmly believe that their involvement in the planning and execution phases is non-negotiable.

A Call for Collaboration

To build effective support for any future projects, they stress the absolute necessity for real mechanisms of participation and collaboration among stakeholders. They envision a Puerto de Corralejo that stands out as one of the finest harbours in the Canary Islands, demanding no further delay in improving the current state of affairs.

A Path Forward

In their formal petition, the associations have clearly outlined their requests:

• Immediate execution of the protective contradique for the recreational and fishing areas.
• Completion of outstanding priority projects.
• Establishment of a public timeline of forthcoming activities.
• Active participation of the fishing and nautical community in future developments.

Overall, the urgent demands from the Cofradía de Pescadores de Corralejo and the Asociación de Empresarios Náuticos de Fuerteventura reflect not only the necessity for safety improvements but also target the economic vitality and tourist reputation of Corralejo’s port.