These days we are told about big projects on the occasion of the upcoming municipal elections. From large parks to gigantic infrastructures, passing through enormous port or housing works without questioning the real need for these monumental investments. In addition, they also intend to add to the current offer of large surfaces in the food sector some more of foreign origin.
What are they looking for? Do any of these political forces know the reality of the island? Where does sustainable growth stand? What will happen to our young people and entrepreneurs?
It is difficult to answer so many questions, but to offer an opinion, these political forces have thought about where our farmers, ranchers and other producers are going to offer their magnificent products if we fill the island with large surfaces that do not buy absolutely anything from our entrepreneurs.
Do we really need more large surfaces? Do we want to help our young people and entrepreneurs or do we want to force them to look for a better future abroad, thus losing our customs? Do we want to see the lands with sweet potatoes, potatoes and watermelons? Do we want to continue enjoying the excellent wines and cheeses of this island?
If we know what we want, let's start with the basics. The first English tourists arrived on the island more than 40 years ago. Millions of tourists continue to arrive every year and I have not yet seen any electoral program that facilitates the learning of English to our neighbors in order to offer a top quality service to our tourists even though it is the main economic support of the island.
If we organize fairs, events and exhibitions to disseminate the products of enormous quality that our land offers us, why don't we invest from the institutions of the island in the appropriate means so that water reaches our producers with guarantee at a reasonable price so that they grow as producers and by extension the island grows in quality and sustainability.
Because we are in campaign, let's start with the basics.
Manuel Pardo, Professor and Resident of Lanzarote