The President of the Government of the Balearic Islands, Margalida Prohens, delivered her New Year’s Eve speech from Dalt Vila in Ibiza, marking the 25th anniversary of its declaration as a World Heritage Site. Prohens reaffirmed her commitment to stability and change, emphasising that in 2025 the Government will continue to prioritise the interests of the Balearic Islands.
Marga Prohens, President of the Balearic Government, during her New Year’s Eve speech. Photo: CAIB.
During her speech, broadcast on IB3, Prohens reflected on the challenges overcome in 2024 and highlighted the progress made in key areas such as housing, the economy, healthcare, and regional financing.
Challenges and progress in 2024
On the subject of housing, the President highlighted the foundations laid for a new direction, defending private property and providing incentives for small landlords to expand the supply of affordable housing.
Prohens underscored the significance of the Sustainability Pact as a consensual initiative to transform the islands’ economic model and the Health Pact, stating that “some issues transcend political parties and legislative terms.” In healthcare, she also highlighted the free access to adapted leisure activities for children with disabilities, the reactivation of the healthcare professional career pathway, a right curtailed since 2018, and pioneering measures in Spain such as a monthly allowance for ALS patients and cancer treatment at Can Misses Hospital in Ibiza.
Migratory crisis
The President used her address to urge the Spanish Government to provide a robust response to the migratory crisis and “not to turn a blind eye.” “We can no longer offer dignified accommodation, nor can we allow more lives to be lost at sea,” she stated.
She also reiterated the need for fair financing that acknowledges the uniqueness of the Balearic Islands and enables key investments in mobility, roads, and public transport. “I won’t tire of saying it: we don’t want to be more than anyone, but we will not allow ourselves to be less, nor less than any other region,” she stressed.
Solidarity and recognition
Prohens expressed her solidarity with the Valencian Community following the October floods and thanked the Balearic emergency services for their efforts in the affected areas. She also paid tribute to Rosario Díaz, a victim of gender-based violence, reaffirming her commitment to combatting this societal scourge: “Her tragic loss drives us to continue fighting this phenomenon with all the resources available.”
In the sporting arena, she celebrated the achievements of Balearic athletes and their historic participation in the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Vision for 2025
The President concluded her address by reiterating the Government’s commitment to working with moderation, common sense, and freedom in 2025. “We will keep our word, always prioritising the interests of our islands,” she assured.
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