Zeybek calls for equal firewood distribution and increased forestry funding
Independent MP Hüseyin Zeybek, representing İskeçe (Xanthi), has called on Greece’s Environment and Energy Ministry to address disparities in firewood distribution between Mustafçova Municipality and the Yeniköy (Stavroupoli) area of İskeçe Municipality ahead of the 2026–2027 winter.
In a parliamentary question submitted to the environment and energy minister, Zeybek called for transparent, common criteria for allocating firewood and additional measures to ensure that residents can meet their heating needs.
According to figures cited by Zeybek, approximately 2,500 eligible recipients in Mustafçova receive 1.5 tonnes of firewood per person, while around 400 eligible recipients in the Yeniköy municipal unit receive between six and eight tonnes each.
CALL FOR TRANSPARENT ALLOCATION CRITERIA
Zeybek highlighted the long and harsh winters in the mountainous areas of İskeçe, arguing that firewood is an essential heating source for thousands of households. He also pointed to rising firewood prices and the resulting pressure on family budgets.
He said the differences between the two neighbouring areas were difficult to justify given their similar climatic conditions and heating needs. He called for allocation criteria that take account of the number of eligible recipients, local climate conditions and actual household heating requirements.
The MP also argued that the fact that the two areas fall under different forestry directorates should not, by itself, explain such a substantial difference in distribution.
ZEYBEK SEEKS MORE FUNDING AND DIRECT FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Zeybek recalled that he had previously raised the issue in parliament through question No. 7086, dated September 27, 2024, but said that no significant solution had followed.
He called for the budget allocated to forestry activities to be increased at least threefold. He also proposed direct financial assistance to help eligible residents purchase the firewood they need through the legal market.
In his latest parliamentary question, Zeybek asked the ministry to explain the criteria used to determine distribution levels, why the needs of eligible recipients in Mustafçova were not being met, and whether the existing arrangement was consistent with the principle of equal treatment.
He urged the authorities to take urgent action to ensure that residents in the region can meet their heating needs during the 2026–2027 winter.
