Mallorca housing protest: Palma tents stay 20 more days

On Mallorca, eight tents stand in Palma’s Plaza España: housing protesters say they will stay for at least 20 more days, with or without permission. About 20 people spent the first night there, while around 50 are involved in the camp overall. On Tuesday, 29 September, they are taking turns to work, rest and collect food.

Why the camp is staying

The Palma group wants to support a similar camp in Madrid and put pressure on Spain’s central government. Its focus is the proposed “Maricarmen decree”, which would extend rental contracts indefinitely and ban evictions.

Albert, a university student at the camp, says the decree needs special measures for the Balearic Islands because of the housing crisis there. He says the assembly will extend the camp by 20 days even if the decree passes. If it fails, he says housing unions will call a general strike. The camp could continue longer if the decree passes without a special clause for the islands.

Help, criticism and the next night

Neighbours and nearby restaurants have brought food and hygiene supplies, though Albert says the protesters pay for most of what they need themselves. He says many struggled to sleep on the first night. Some passers-by have criticised the camp, while others have come to show support, including people facing eviction this month.

Tuesday’s plans include a food collection, a shared meal and an assembly meeting at 18.30. If it rains, the group may move to Palma’s intermodal station for shelter.

Topics: Strikes · Jobs & labour · Protests · Housing · Food & dining · Palma

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com