THE Balearic government will be meeting with the central administration in Madrid today to discuss the important issue of inter-island transport.
The Balearic government wants all transport between the Balearics and the mainland to be declared a public service which will lead to more flights and cheaper fares. A similar system already exists in the Canary Islands. In the short-term the local government would like to see discounts on fares increased from their present level of 33 percent for islanders to 50 percent. The meeting today comes at a time when many airlines are cutting back their services in the light of poor load factors. Also, consumer groups say that inter-island fares are far too high and need to be reduced. The issue of inter-island transport is becoming a key local election issue. Balearic leader Francesc Antich has said that Madrid could do more to help the Balearics. He is demanding that they take urgent action on this issue.
Balearics fights for cheaper air fares