Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-003091/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Loucas Fourlas (PPE)
The devastating fires in the mountainous region of Limassol have once again shown that the EU’s rescEU mechanism is unable to respond to emergencies caused by natural disasters in remote areas such as Cyprus in a timely and effective manner.
Although a European crisis mechanism is in place, Cyprus’ geographical isolation effectively makes the country a second-tier partner in terms of EU support in cases of natural disasters.
The absence of permanent, reinforced aerial and terrestrial firefighting equipment in Cyprus results in unacceptable delays, with tragic consequences for human lives, the natural environment and the economy.
The lack of preventive and operational readiness constitutes institutional negligence on the part of the EU, as Cyprus – a Member State also acting as an external border of the EU – is left insufficiently protected in the face of growing climate threats.
In view of the above, the Commission is asked:
- 1.Does it recognise that Cyprus’ distance from continental Europe means that the rescEU mechanism as it stands is actually inadequate for providing immediate intervention in emergency situations?
- 2.Does it intend to establish a permanent and staffed rescEU base in Cyprus, with aerial and terrestrial firefighting equipment, in order to ensure immediate and effective intervention in Cyprus and in the wider Eastern Mediterranean?
Submitted: 25.7.2025