The Socialist Group in the Cabildo of Lanzarote has presented a motion in defense of work-life balance, proposing the creation of a subsidy line to finance the early and late care service currently provided by AMPAS with their own resources.
The spokesperson for the Socialist Group, Celeste Callero, points out that childcare "can no longer depend on the voluntary effort of families or the economic capacity of each association." In this regard, she recalls that the gap between school and work hours continues to cause serious difficulties for many mothers and fathers in Lanzarote.
"For years, this shortage has been addressed as best as possible, relying on family and neighborhood networks or the tireless work of parent-teacher associations (AMPAS), which have taken on a responsibility that is not theirs," states Callero, who considers it essential for public administrations to provide a structural response to a real and widespread need.The socialist councilor also warns that this situation particularly affects students with special educational needs, as many AMPAs lack sufficient resources to hire auxiliary staff to guarantee adequate attention. "This represents unacceptable discrimination for families who need the most support," she emphasizes
From the PSOE, they argue that the Cabildo of Lanzarote must actively get involved as long as this service is not generally implemented by the educational administration. "It is not reasonable for the organizational and economic burden to fall on the AMPAS when we talk about equal opportunities and basic rights," points out Celeste Callero.
The motion presented also recalls that the Cabildo itself approved the Island Strategy for Accessibility and Inclusion in November 2024, which includes principles such as normalization in access to services and the protection of the most vulnerable groups. "This proposal is consistent with the commitments already made by the institution and must be translated into concrete measures," adds the socialist councilor.
For all these reasons, the Socialist Group proposes the creation of a line of subsidies intended to finance the after-school care service provided by AMPAS, specifically including the hiring of auxiliary staff for the care of students with special educational needs. "Investing in work-life balance is investing in equality, inclusion, and well-being for the families of Lanzarote," concludes Celeste Callero .
