POLL OF THE DAY: Are Canary Islands residents ungrateful for British tourists? - VERDICT
Protests have been held in the Canary Islands in recent weeks against the mass tourism crisis
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Spanish residents throughout Spain and in particular in the Canary Islands have held 'anti-tourism' protests in recent weeks.
These are due to continue this weekend, with campaigners demanding a more sustainable model of tourism taking to the streets in islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.
They're due to be joined by anti-mass tourism protests in London later today.
Brian Harrison, British expat and General Secretary of the Association Salvar La Tejita, told GB News: "There has been a wealth of misinformation circulating in the UK media about this issue.
"Nobody is against tourists, or even tourism. Every single resident is aware that tourism is vital for the economy.
"The protests are against the Mass Tourism Crisis, and the residents are demanding that tourism reverts to sustainable levels, and that current tourists mega-constructions which are currently being built over protected land are halted.
"Regarding the economic impact of UK visitors, it is and always will be appreciated by islanders.
"However, this revenue has failed to reach the vast majority of the population: poverty or imminent risk of poverty is at 36 per cent.
Protests are going to take place again this weekend
Getty"Many Canarians have emigrated, some have to live in tents, caves or cars because they cannot afford housing.
"The Canarian Government need to attend these issues as a matter of urgency."
This comes as officials on the islands are pleading with Britons not to cancel their holidays, despite these protests.
Regional tourism chief Jessica de León insists that tourists are still welcome on the Islands.
"It is still safe to visit the Canary Islands, and we are delighted to welcome you," she told The Telegraph.
She added that she understands the frustration, but it was "unfair to blame tourism".
Fernando Clavijo, the Canary Islands president echoed León saying that some activists "smack of tourist-phobia".
He added: "People who come here to visit and spend their money must not be criticised or insulted. We are playing with our main source of income."
With that in mind, do you think that Canary Islands residents are ungrateful for British tourists? Have your say.
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