Mexican Lawmaker Fights for Beach Access Rights in Yucatán

Neyda Pat Dzul, a congresswoman from Morena, recently expressed concern about foreign residents in Yucatán attempting to restrict local access to the beach. She emphasized the importance of the beach as a place for locals to enjoy a peaceful day and lamented the attempts to limit this access.

Dzul stressed the need for efficient mechanisms for citizens to report any actions that limit their right to beach access. She urged for prompt responses from authorities to such complaints. This comes after a recent incident where a Canadian couple claimed ownership of a street leading to a beach in Santa Clara and allegedly assaulted visitors.

Dzul highlighted that this issue is not isolated and affects the entire state. She reminded that the Mexican Constitution restricts foreign land acquisition in coastal and border areas. However, foreigners can acquire properties in these areas through trusts established with Mexican banks, which grant them similar rights to property ownership without directly transferring land ownership.

She noted that while the legal framework allows foreign participation in real estate acquisition in restricted areas under certain conditions, it is crucial for authorities to regulate these operations effectively to prevent abuses and ensure local communities' rights are respected. She warned that lack of oversight could lead to situations that infringe on the rights of Yucatecans, such as free beach access and preservation of local traditions.

Dzul called for strengthening existing regulations to ensure free beach access, establishing clear penalties for illegal restrictions, and ensuring the legality and regulation of trusts. She also advocated for information campaigns to educate both locals and foreign residents about their rights and responsibilities regarding beach and land use, promoting respectful co-existence.

Dzul emphasized the importance of protecting the heritage and rights of Yucatecans. She urged for collective efforts to ensure that beaches and lands remain accessible and enjoyable for all locals, and that visitors respect local culture and laws.

In a personal note, Dzul addressed a recent controversy over a pair of sneakers she wore. She used this incident to highlight the insensitivity of a person who posted photos of shoes belonging to missing people in Jalisco, stating that it is not a game or joke to play with the pain of others.