Fourlas on RescEU: 'A Gift Unreceived if Help Isn't There When Needed'

DISY & EPP MEP Loukas Fourlas has submitted an urgent question to the European Commission, denouncing the inability of the RescEU mechanism to respond promptly and effectively to natural disasters in Cyprus.

Speaking on ALPHA's special broadcast, the MEP explained that this European mechanism was created in 2019 to provide assistance to member states, but in the case of Cyprus, it was not effective. 'When you don't have the specific help you need when you need it, it's a gift unreceived...' he emphasized.

The MEP stressed that Cyprus, as an island country isolated from the core of the EU, faces delays in the arrival of assistance, even though the EU wants to help. Furthermore, even when assistance arrives, time is needed for coordination and adaptation to local conditions.

Fourlas pointed out that countries such as Italy, Portugal and Greece have permanent assistance with stationed resources and personnel, and wondered why Cyprus is not considered a strategic stationing point. 'The country asks for it. You claim it, you demand it,' he stated.

Loukas Fourlas contacted the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, and his colleagues, aiming to find funds to support fire victims.