MP Ferhat submits written inquiry for fire victims
Rhodope New Left Party MP Özgür Ferhat has criticized the government for failing to deliver on its promises 15 months after a devastating forest fire struck the region. Ferhat highlighted ongoing hardships and submitted a written inquiry demanding action to address the victims' grievances.
Ferhat outlined several issues:
Only €534,000 in aid reached 148 individuals and businesses.
The agriculture and livestock sectors were neglected, with farmers receiving no compensation for lost equipment and crops.
Infrastructure damage, such as irrigation systems and tobacco drying facilities, remains unaddressed.
He also noted that Rhodope was excluded from the EU's Article 5.2, which provides aid for agricultural damages exceeding 30%. Despite this, Ferhat called for urgent measures to revive farming and beekeeping activities.
Key questions posed to the government included:
Reasons for compensation delays and timelines for addressing losses.
Plans for additional livestock and beekeeping support.
Details on August 2023 feed aid and recipient selection criteria.
Status of second payments for 11,000 damaged olive trees.
Progress on housing assistance for affected areas.
Ferhat urged authorities to act promptly, stating that Rodop residents cannot endure further delays.
