RedaccionAfter not receiving a response, Lola García once again sends a letter to the Minister of Economy and Industry to nullify the requests admitted for processing and ensure they are not reactivated
The Cabildo of Fuerteventura has once again requested the definitive cancellation of the requests admitted for processing for the extraction of rare earth minerals on the island. An activity that poses a risk to the natural and scenic values of the island, as well as to the well-being and health of its people, being one of the most polluting industries on the planet.
The president of the insular corporation, Lola García, already requested this in writing in March 2024 and in person to the Minister of Economy and Industry of the Government of the Canary Islands, Manuel Domínguez, during a visit to Fuerteventura in February of this year.
Having not received a response, Lola García, on behalf of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, has again sent a letter to the minister, reiterating the importance of definitively closing the requests admitted for processing. Additionally, she requests the list of exploration, research, and/or exploitation permits granted, submitted, or in process over the last ten years.
«Fuerteventura has unanimously expressed its rejection of rare earth minerals, and this matter must be closed once and for all, as it concerns an activity that worries the people of Fuerteventura by putting our way of life and island model at risk,» García explains. «The competent authorities must do so not only with words but by nullifying the administrative process that authorizes rare earth mineral research in various parts of the island.»
García recalls that from the outset, the Cabildo of Fuerteventura showed its rejection of rare earth minerals, submitting objections to stop the authorizations. This sentiment has been endorsed by the municipalities, FECAM, FECAI, and the Parliament that voted for its suspension. Furthermore, a report by specialized jurists, at the request of the Cabildo, supports the position of the insular institution that strongly opposes any type of extraction in Fuerteventura, considering these activities incompatible with current regulations, as well as with the natural and cultural values of the island.
