Humphrey CarterPalma08/01/2024 12:36
TW
1

The argument, or debate, over cruise ships looks set to sail on into yet another year. In the run-up to Christmas there were numerous statements released in favour of and against cruise ships visiting Palma and other major Spanish ports, but it appears that there is not very much Spain can do about it, which will further anger some while pleasing others.

In Madrid a group of politicians are interested in the possibility of promoting a stricter regulatory framework regarding the activity of cruise ships in terms of taxation, the environment or the use of less polluting fuels in view of the increase in the number of cruise ships arriving in the Balearics, for example, over the past few years, despite alleged restrictions.

But, and putting it quite bluntly, the government said in reply it could not approve limitations on access of cruise ships to Spanish ports because it does not have the necessary legal support. The government added that a prior agreement is required with the main cruise companies, providers of the service, represented in the Cruise Lines International Association and it is a matter “that affects the coastal cities concerned and the corresponding autonomous government, as well as the competences in matters of tourism”.

But were we not led to believe that the previous Socialist-led coalition Balearic government did reach such a deal with the cruise lines at a meeting in Hamburg in December 2021?

So, based on that being true and the cruise industry, while it continues to grow, comes under greater scrutiny over its carbon and human footprints in ports visited, surely central government could reach a deal with the international association without having to introduce new law.

Other countries in Europe have and are introducing new laws with which the cruise industry has to comply with. So why not ask Brussels to take some proactive action at an EU level or is there too much financial interest at stake?

Considering most of the main cruise ports like Palma are managed by the State Ports Authority, surely central government must have some clout.