A new agreement has been signed between the Canary Government and the non-governmental organisation, Open Arms, authorising the deployment of a rescue ship in the waters of the archipelago for at least the next two months. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangerous ‘Atlantic route’ used by migrants and will include open days, educational talks, and visits from schools in various locations, including Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

The announcement coincides with inflammatory remarks made by Santiago Abascal, the leader of the Vox party, who has called for the Open Arms vessel to be confiscated and sunk. He described it as a ‘negreer’ ship and emphasised that his suggestions serve as a warning to individuals promoting the immigration of Europeans.

Canarian President Fernando Clavijo has condemned Abascal’s comments, labelling him as an ‘authentic fascist’ for his inflammatory remarks. He argued that as a public figure, Abascal should exercise greater caution in his statements. Clavijo suggested that if Abascal were in distress at sea, he would likely wish to be rescued by the same organisation he threatens.

In response to the escalating tensions, other government officials have also condemned Abascal’s comments. Minister of Justice, Félix Bolaños, warned that such ‘toxins’ can lead to justifying physical violence, while the Minister of Labour, Yolanda Díaz, portrayed the language used by Abascal as lacking humanity. Meanwhile, the director of Open Arms emphasised that their agreement does not intend to replace established sea rescue services but aims to offer vital assistance in an area known for its perilous conditions and high mortality rate.