Mallorca tourist tax: PP puts any rise on hold

Mallorca’s tourist tax could still change, but the PP says no decision should come before talks in the Balearic Islands Sustainability Pact. The party’s parliamentary spokesman, Sebastià Sagreras, set out that position in Palma on 2 September. It follows a Socialist proposal to raise the charge during the high season.

The levy is formally called the Sustainable Tourism Tax (ITS). Sagreras said the PP had invited the PSIB Socialists to argue for their increase at the pact’s discussion table.

Marga Prohens, president of the Balearic Government, had previously proposed a higher tax in high season, a lower rate in low season and an exemption for Balearic residents. Sagreras said changes needed agreement first.

He accused the Socialists of demanding measures they had not introduced when they were in government, adding that illegal tourist accommodation places had multiplied during those years.

Opposition demands fewer tourist places

Opposition parties said the government had failed to take serious action on tourist overcrowding. Josep Castells of Més per Menorca called it the legislature’s major challenge and said the Sustainability Pact had ended in a “great fiasco”.

Lluís Apesteguia of MÉS per Mallorca said the government should move beyond limiting growth and pursue a reduction in tourist accommodation places. He said two decrees approved this summer had not addressed the issue.

PSIB deputy Marc Pons said the pact had proved unable to deliver measures. Unidas Podemos deputy José María García also called for fewer tourist places and criticised the government for not meeting groups behind the summer demonstrations.

PP points to its tourism measures

Sagreras rejected the criticism and pointed to the government’s tourist-containment decree, action against illegal holiday lets and a planned law to limit vehicle entry to Mallorca.

He also cited the proposed joint management of airports as part of the PP’s response.

Topics: Protests · Housing · Tourism · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com