In his announcement, the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection responds to PASOK’s objections for ‘black pue“, Arguing that the new narrative is rejected by the government’s works.
The ministry presents a number of actions and achievements in various areas.
The ministry says that for the first time the Greek state has a single public body, National Crisis Management Mechanismwhich is responsible for the full cycle of disaster management (prevention, readiness, treatment, rehabilitation).
- Staff: The Firefighter It was significantly reinforced, reaching 18,000 people from 14,000 in 2019, a 29%increase. Seasonal firefighters have expanded from 6 to 8 months. At the same time Special Forest Business Units (EMME) increased from 12 to 21, following international standards. Finally, the number of volunteer firefighters exceeded 4,900, increasing a large increase in 2021.
- Overhead: The air fleet increased by 46% compared to 2019, with 80-85 aircraft and helicopters operating daily. The drones were more than doubled, reaching 87, contributing to the immediate detection of fires, resulting in 90% of the fires in the first minutes.
Technology and institutional changes
The Ministry highlights the adoption of new technologies and the upgrading of institutions:
- “AEGIS” program: With a total budget of € 2.16 billion, the AEGIS program is aimed at shielding the country. Includes the creation of one National database using artificial intelligence for risk management as well as reinforcement of players such as Firefighterthe Forest service and Port body.
- 112: The establishment of 112 is characterized as a fundamental step for citizens’ safety, as it reduces reaction time and enhances trust.
- Arson crimes: The new legislative framework has tightened the penalties for forest arson, which are now in prison without suspension. More than 300 arrests have been made so far.
Prevention and restoration
- Cleaning of land: For the first time, the imposition of fines on gross plots was implemented, and the register of preventive fire protection measures was created.
- State relocation: Since 2019, more than 900 million euros have been given to grants, allowances and benefits. Only for Daniel’s flood in Thessaly, more than 442 million euros have been given to approximately 29,000 beneficiaries.
The ministry concludes that Greece needs projects and visions, not “catastrophe”, while stressing that the government is continuing work with plan and determination.