The SYRIZA Progressive Alliance parliamentary group submitted a question accusing the New Democracy government of failing in wildfire preparation and management. The opposition party stated that more than 4 million stremmata of forests and crops have burned since 2019 under prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
SYRIZA accused the government of removing critical aerial firefighting equipment, modern technology, and key infrastructure from the Recovery Fund. It stated that Mitsotakis attempted to present an image of governmental effectiveness on wildfire fronts, but argued that prevention efforts have been reduced to evacuation messages.
Canceled Aircraft and Infrastructure Funding
According to data cited in the question, the government removed the procurement of seven Canadair aircraft, 11 Air Tractor aircraft, heavy-lift transport helicopters, and drone systems from Recovery Fund planning. The cuts also included the planned upgrade of two Super Puma helicopters.
The party added that critical prevention interventions were removed from the funding plan. These included putting the DEDDIE electricity distribution network underground in vulnerable areas, as well as projects creating and upgrading Civil Protection infrastructure and centers.
Grounded Helicopters and Unhired Pilots
The submission also targeted aircraft currently unable to operate. SYRIZA stated that three new Leonardo AW139 helicopters remain grounded because the maintenance tender was canceled. In addition, three Diamond DA62 MPP aircraft belonging to the Fire Service remain grounded in Megara because no pilots have been hired for them.
SYRIZA concluded that the government has failed miserably and that the country is paying the price. The opposition party stated that a better outcome requires meaningful prevention, a serious plan, the use of all available funding tools, and adequate protection for human life, property, and the environment.
