Mario Cabrera: Load capacity must be the central focus of future decisions in Fuerteventura

L.V.F. – What are the growth forecasts for the coming years? Is Fuerteventura at its limit?
M.C. – Fuerteventura is undergoing an unprecedented demographic boom. In just over two decades the population has risen sharply and the growth rate is unsustainable. Tourism has been decisive; more than 40 % of residents were born abroad, while only 33 % are native to the island. This is especially evident in municipalities such as La Oliva, where almost half the population is of foreign origin. If we do nothing, the trend will intensify. From Asamblea Majorera – Coalición Canaria Fuerteventura we believe it is time to address this debate seriously. The island cannot grow without limits; it is our political duty to define those limits.

L.V.F. – What measures are proposed to curb uncontrolled and disorganized population growth?
M.C. – First, we need a rigorous study to determine the sustainable growth the island can absorb, in terms of infrastructure, public services and resources. We have presented a resolution in the Debate of the Nationality calling for a carrying‑capacity study, which the Chamber has backed. It is not only about how much we can grow, but how we want to grow and what model of island we defend. Carrying capacity must become the core of all future decisions to guarantee balanced, sustainable development for residents. Citizens are demanding a growth limit, and our general plan and island plan must reflect that. We must also address the tourism‑bed limit and open debates on residence law and the regulation of second homes, which often become illegal tourist rentals, especially in places like Lajares where most owners are wealthy Europeans, driving up housing prices. We have proposed a residence law similar to those in Switzerland, Denmark, Malta or the Åland Islands, to curb speculation and facilitate housing access. Initially we were criticized, even by the PSOE, but now we have the backing of the state government and will take the proposal to the EU for a definitive solution.

L.V.F. – Housing is a major demand on an island where prices keep rising. What actions are being taken to alleviate the shortage of suitable homes, and how many are being built or promoted?
M.C. – Currently we focus on public‑housing promotion: 77 units are under construction in La Oliva and 75 in Puerto del Rosario, with additional projects bringing the total to about 190 homes after years of stagnation. More than 20,000 m² of public land in Puerto del Rosario have been made available, and investments exceeding €50 million are being mobilised by various administrations, with the Cabildo’s participation. Despite this, population growth and tourism pressure continue to strain the market. The state and the “Pacto de las Flores” have not set housing policies. Recognising the structural problem, Coalición Canaria has, over the past three years, adapted laws to speed up procedures and improve access, for example by making the price per square metre of VPO housing attractive to developers and allowing the use of RIC (rural investment zones) for housing construction. We see a great opportunity for businesses to use RIC to build homes for their workers.

L.V.F. – To access public‑housing units, applicants must have resided on the islands for at least twelve years. What is the rationale behind this measure?
M.C. – The rule was introduced with the new decree on public‑housing access approved in March. It was necessary because the previous lottery system treated long‑time residents the same as newcomers, which was unfair. Public housing cannot operate as a lottery. The amendment, explained by councilor Pablo Rodríguez Valido, prioritises genuine need and rootedness. We defend the twelve‑year residency requirement as a matter of justice for those who have lived and supported the island for years. Exceptions exist for vulnerable groups, such as victims of gender‑based violence, who are exempt.

L.V.F. – A medical‑helicopter base has recently arrived in Fuerteventura, a long‑awaited resource. The island also calls for a Southern Specialty Care Center (CAE). When can we expect this infrastructure?
M.C. – In health, we have made a qualitative leap this legislature, though continuous improvement is needed. The medical helicopter is one of the biggest achievements of the last decade, alongside the oncology bunker and the hemodynamics unit. It responds to a demand from the island’s population, improves emergency response times and saves lives. The previous legislature dismissed the idea of a second medical helicopter as excessive; now we see the value of this investment. Regarding the CAE, the project has received a strong push this term, thanks to coordination among administrations and the contribution of Pájara councilor Alexis Alonso, who secured land. The tendering process is underway; four architectural teams have submitted proposals, and the final award is expected within a month, after which the Southern Hospital can proceed.

**L.V.F. – The dismantling of the El Char