Yucatan Senator Fights Back Against Cruise Tourist Fees

Senator Jorge Carlos Ramirez Marin has expressed his disapproval of a proposed $42 fee per cruise passenger. He argues that this fee should not be applied uniformly across all regions of the country. He states that it's unfair to equate established tourist locations, like Los Cabos in Baja California, with emerging ports such as Progreso in Yucatan.

Ramirez Marin asserts that Progreso port requires more support and infrastructure to grow. It should not be treated the same as established destinations like Cozumel or Cabo San Lucas. He points out that the types of tourism differ between the Pacific and the Atlantic. A uniform fee could potentially discourage tourists from visiting the region.

While Ramirez Marin acknowledges the benefits of tourists contributing resources to strengthen priority projects and improve services, he insists that these revenues should be tailored to local needs. This would encourage the development of emerging destinations like Progreso. The senator also highlights the challenging financial situation that Yucatecan municipalities are currently facing due to budget cuts and administrative changes. He notes that many localities lack the funds needed to cover essential expenses such as payroll, debts, and infrastructure maintenance.

"Municipalities are short on funds, that's the reality. But the citizens can't be kept waiting. Immediate solutions are needed for urgent issues, such as paving. In some communities, the condition of the roads makes basic vehicle transit almost impossible," he states.

Ramirez Marin calls on the state government to quickly secure the necessary resources to support municipalities at the end of the year and deliver on the programs promised during electoral campaigns. He suggests that the funds collected from tourists and other legal sources could be directed towards priority projects, such as paving. This would ease the burden on municipalities and improve the quality of life for citizens. His comments come amidst ongoing debates about budgetary tensions and fiscal policies related to tourism, a crucial sector for both the Yucatan economy and the country as a whole.