limassol wildfire — Cypriot MEPs have sharply criticised the European Union for its perceived inaction during the devastating Limassol wildfire that claimed two lives and destroyed hundreds of homes in July. The wildfire, which ravaged over 120 square kilometres of land, highlighted the urgent need for improved fire prevention measures across Europe.
In a heated debate, MEPs Giorgos Georgiou, Michalis Hadjipantela, Geadis Geadi, and Fidias Panayiotou voiced their frustrations over the EU’s failure to provide timely and effective support during a fire season that has been described as record-breaking. Over one million hectares of land have burned across Europe this year, an area larger than Cyprus and significantly higher than the 20-year average.
Georgiou, representing the AKEL party, pointed out that Cyprus holds the “negative record of the decade,” noting the extensive destruction relative to its total territory. He did not shy away from criticising the Cypriot government for its lack of accountability, stating, “not even resignations of responsible ministers were seen.”
His call for action included a demand for the establishment of a European aerial firefighting base, which he believes would benefit both Cyprus and neighbouring countries. “You ignore us demonstratively,” Georgiou lamented, urging that funding be shifted from military expenditures to public safety initiatives.
Hadjipantela, a member of the ruling DISY party, echoed these sentiments, asserting that mere expressions of sympathy from the EU are insufficient. “The European Union cannot consider it has done its duty with a few words of sympathy. We don’t need sympathy. We need actions,” he declared. He warned that if similar disasters occur without a robust response plan, the EU would bear responsibility for the consequences.
During the parliamentary session, Hadjipantela confirmed that Cyprus is eligible to seek compensation from the European Commission’s Solidarity Fund within 12 weeks following the wildfire. “We officially informed the government about this matter,” he stated, emphasising the need for swift action to secure financial support.
Further highlighting the sense of abandonment felt by Cypriots, Geadi of ELAM acknowledged the assistance received from countries like Italy and Israel. He expressed gratitude for the support, particularly the firefighting aircraft sent by Israel.
Independent MEP Panayiotou remarked on the irony that Cyprus received “more help from third countries – Georgia, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon – instead of European Union countries.” His comments reflected a broader sentiment among the Cypriot public, who feel let down by their European partners during a time of crisis.
The current fire season has already set records since statistics began in 2006, with several European nations, including Cyprus, exceeding their twenty-year averages for wildfire damage. Tragically, at least eight people have lost their lives across the affected regions.