Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002368/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Georgios Aftias (PPE)
For several months of the year, the Aegean and Ionian islands are exposed to extreme weather events and in many cases ships face objective difficulties in approaching. In the winter months, the situation is particularly difficult and often extremely dangerous due to strong winds.
This problem is clearly visible in the port of Karlovasi on the island of Samos, which – as experts have pointed out – remains unprotected from strong northern winds, as an expansion some years ago was left unfinished. According to experts, funding for the port is desperately needed, so that two internal jetties (moles) can be built to protect the port’s inner harbour and make it easier for vessels to dock. In the Gulf of Marathokampos in Samos, the southern winds cause major problems for the port’s operations, as well as serious problems in terms of the gulf’s erosion. The ports requiring direct funding are large in number and can be found in most Aegean islands. Ports in the Ionian Sea, such as in Corfu, Zakynthos and Kefalonia, face similar problems.
In view of the above, can the Commission say:
- 1.Does it intend to provide funding for projects in the ports of the islands, which are key to regional development, so that they can remain fully operational even in extreme weather events?
- 2.Are there plans to upgrade port infrastructure to make it more resilient?
Submitted: 12.6.2025