Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-001393/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)
These days, residents from almost every corner of Greece are witnessing the same scene unfold time and time again, watching on as the odd burst of heavy rain leaves streets, homes and shops flooded and crops destroyed in the blink of an eye. The islands of the Cyclades, such as Paros and Mykonos, and Crete, particularly Chania, were particularly affected. There were also serious problems in mainland Greece, including in Mesolongi, Corinth and Ilia.
As is acknowledged in the directive on the management of flood risks (Directive 2007/60/EC) itself, Member States should base their assessments, maps and plans on appropriate best practice and best available technologies not entailing excessive costs in the field of flood risk management.
Can the Commission therefore answer the following:
- 1.What view does it take of the request for full direct compensation for those affected – waiving the unacceptable rules of the EU Solidarity Fund – and for the mobilisation of additional funds?
- 2.What view does it take of the fact that even the very limited funds available under the Cohesion Fund for the regions – which are also used for flood protection projects – are being handed over to the defence industry to meet the needs of the EU’s war economy, exposing the people of Europe to incalculable risks?
- 3.What view does it take of the fact that the cost-benefit criterion, as described also in Directive 2007/60/EC, means that basic infrastructure projects are either put on hold for years or not implemented at all, leaving people unprotected?
Submitted: 4.4.2025