Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001150/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Giuseppe Milazzo (ECR), Francesco Ventola (ECR)
The invasion of Solenopsis invicta (fire ant) in Sicily is extremely worrying, as it could spread throughout Europe. This invasive species from South America has already caused serious environmental and economic damage in the United States and Australia.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) classifies it as a high-risk invasive pest, capable of establishing itself in southern European countries with a temperate, Mediterranean climate.
Its spread could have devastating consequences on ecosystems, agriculture and public health. In Australia and the USA, it has wiped out native species, damaged crops and put humans at danger with its painful stings.
The costs of controlling it are huge: Australia estimates the impact to be around AUD 1.65 billion per year, and has spent more than 400 million on eradication programmes since 2001.
Timely and coordinated action is essential to avoid it spreading uncontrollably, which would make its eradication more difficult and expensive. Delays could exacerbate the problem, increasing the cost of containment.
In view of this:
- 1.Is there a structured monitoring programme and an updated map of the spread of S. invicta in Europe?
- 2.What action has been taken to limit and eradicate its presence in infested areas?
- 3.What funds and instruments have been or will be allocated to address this emergency at EU level?
Submitted: 18.3.2025