The Cabildo approves an institutional motion to declare sporting activity essential

The Tenerife Island Council has unanimously approved an institutional motion declaring physical activity and sport in the Canary Islands an essential activity due to its clear benefits for people’s health, especially in the context of the pandemic.

This motion calls on the relevant authorities, namely the Government of Spain and the Government of the Canary Islands, to issue certificates to ensure that people who need to practice sport with qualified personnel can travel and do so, both for those affiliated with sports federations and those who are not. It also aims to guarantee the protection and continuity of professional services related to sport and to ensure that people requiring special attention due to age, medical conditions, or physical or mental limitations continue to receive exercise services provided by qualified personnel.

According to a report by the Spanish Sports Association (ADESP), more than 1.4 million people have stopped participating in sports due to reasons related to the pandemic. Sports generate more than €12 billion annually in Spain, making it a vital economic driver that must be protected not only for its impact on the economy but also for its health benefits for those who participate. ADESP estimates losses of approximately €4.616 billion last year and the loss of between 31,000 and 42,000 jobs across Spain.