During a session in the Canarian Parliament, the Minister of Agriculture addressed the issue of compensation for banana farmers in La Palma. More than two years have passed without a definitive solution for the payment of the remaining 81% of aid intended to cover additional costs caused by volcanic ash on the island's agricultural farms.
The total estimated compensation for the 2021-2022 season, the most affected by the Tajogaite eruption, amounts to 11 million euros. However, to date, only approximately two million euros have been paid, representing just 19% of the total. This partial payment was made in April 2024, according to a resolution published by the Ministry of Agriculture.
“"The banana sector in La Palma, affected by the ash emitted by Tajogaite in the last quarter of 2021, is owed nine million euros in direct public support."
The minister emphasized that the 19% already paid was the initial commitment assumed by the Canary Islands, suggesting that the remaining portion has not been paid because the funds have not been provided by the State. Nevertheless, he assured that the debt would be settled, and if the State does not provide the funds, the Government of the Canary Islands itself will assume the payment of the remaining nine million.
The situation has caused concern in La Palma, and agricultural organizations such as Palca-Unión de Uniones have denounced the lack of progress. Although the minister confirmed the existence of the debt and the intention to pay it, no specific dates were provided for when the payment would be made to those affected.
