“Brussels relies on symbols instead of real forest fire prevention”

A report by the European Court of Auditors published today reveals serious defects in the use of EU funds for forest fire fighting-for the free EU MP Elisabeth Dieringer A clear sign of political failure on the Commission: “Brussels spreads money with full hands, but without plan.” Instead of targeted prevention, symbol policy is operated. “

The report shows that projects are not systematically promoted where the risk is highest. Instead of a needs -based allocation of the funds, funds in Spain have been distributed flat over all provinces – regardless of the actual risk situation. “This is not a strategic disaster prevention, that is without having to say,” criticizes Dieringer.

The examiners also complain that many measures are based on outdated data. In Greece, the risk assessment is based on a 45 -year -old card. In Portugal, an area now flooded was even classified as a forest fire at risk-and received EU funds. “If billions are distributed based on such basics, this is a mockery for every effective environmental policy,” says Dieringer.

According to the Court of Auditors, it is hardly possible to assess the actual results of the measures. There are neither uniform indicators nor a sustainable tracking of the projects-especially at the Corona construction fund ARF. “As important as prevention is-if the effect fizzles out after three years, the money has not been spent,” says the EU MP.

Even if Austria was not part of the certified states, Dieringer warns of negligence: “We also increase the risk of forest fire. Funding must not seep away, but have to work where they are needed. The Court of Auditors delivers a wake -up call for all of us.”