The increase in migratory pressure in the Canary Islands has forced Salvamento Marítimo to increase your capabilities in Atlantic waters. This is stated by the Ministry of Transport in a statement, in which it explains that there are currently three seaward-type vessels deployed in the Canary Islands.
In the note they explain that normally in the Canary Islands there would be only one seakeeper working, while the rest would be in other Spanish waters. However, due to the “surges”, Three of the four units have moved to the Canary Islands, where they are all reinforced with an additional crew member than required by law, as they are in an area of potential immigration.
Currently, in the Canary Islands there are deployed two rescue coordination centers in Las Palmas (coordinates emergencies in the eastern part of the Canary archipelago) and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (coordinates the western part of the Canary archipelago); two AW139 rescue helicopters, in Las Palmas and Tenerife South, 1 fixed-wing aircraft, two tow vessels, 10 rescue boats, 3 rescue patrol boats, a base of rescue and anti-pollution equipment.
On the morning of this September 13, Maritime Rescue has rescued in two different operations 82 personas. Furthermore, in August immigration to Spain increased by 22% compared to the eight months of the year.