Municipal union rejects forced mergers of local water untilities

Greek municipalities are pushing back against a draft bill requiring mandatory mergers of local water and sewerage utilities (DEYA), arguing it undermines local governance and autonomy.

The Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE) declared its “absolute and complete opposition” to the Environment Ministry’s proposed law, which seeks to consolidate smaller utilities into regional entities. While the government claims the move would streamline operations, KEDE countered that it risks higher costs for smaller communities and reduced flexibility to meet local needs.

KEDE has demanded that discussions follow a “joint proposal” created with water utility associations and be led by the Interior Ministry, not the Environment Ministry. It insisted that future reforms prioritize “voluntary mergers” to uphold constitutional protections and local self-rule.

Kathimerini