Catastrophic earthquakes at the Dodecanese — 100% funding by the EU Solidarity Fund.
23.8.2017
Question for written answer E-005252-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi (PPE)
Two strong earthquakes with a magnitude of 6.4 and 5.1 on the Richter scale affected the Dodecanese complex on 21 July 2017, with information reporting two deaths, several injuries and considerable material damage. The first strong earthquake was recorded in the maritime area between Rhodos and Kos, while the epicentre of the second earthquake, following seven minutes later, has been tracked a few kilometres north of Leros and at a very short distance from the coast of Lipsi.
In most areas where the earthquakes were felt, there are dozens of houses and shops which have suffered damage, while at the same time there have been major problems in infrastructure of vital importance for the economy and tourism of the islands, such as the port of Kos where the damage is extensive and the port has been put out of service. Given how critical the situation is, and in the middle of the tourist season in the area, the need for immediate repair of the damage and for solidarity with the area’s inhabitants is imperative. In view of this, will the Commission say:
- 1.Is it possible to immediately activate the EU Solidarity Fund with allocated funding at 100% to repair the damage and offer relief to the earthquake affected islands?
- 2.Does it have information regarding the use of EU funds by the Solidarity Fund for the repair of damage on the island of Lesvos after the recent catastrophic earthquake?