The Portuguese government has confirmed it will apply for emergency financial support from the European Union (EU) to help deal with the damage caused by the destructive winter storms that hit Portugal.
Minister for Territorial Cohesion, Manuel Castro Almeida, made the announcement on Wednesday in Parliament, saying the country will request assistance from the European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF).
The fund allows EU member states to receive fast and flexible financial aid of up to €1 billion per year after major natural disasters.
The move comes after a series of storms – Kristin, Leonardo and Marta – battered mainland Portugal for around three weeks between late January and early February. The worst-hit areas were in central regions, as well as Lisbon and Tagus Valley and Alentejo.
At least 19 people died since January 28 due to the extreme weather. Hundreds more were injured, left homeless or forced to leave their homes. More than half of the deaths happened during recovery operations.
The storms caused widespread destruction, damaging or destroying thousands of homes, businesses and equipment. There were also major disruptions, including fallen trees and structures, flooding, and cuts to electricity, water and communications. Total damage is estimated to run into billions of euros.
During the parliamentary session, Manuel Castro Almeida was questioned about the government’s response to the crisis.
In reply to the Socialist Party (PS), the minister rejected claims that local councils were responsible for delays in aid reaching affected communities. Instead, he pointed to broader difficulties slowing down the process.
“Many problems are hindering payments,” he said. “We must be as fast as possible with the least possible bureaucracy,” he added.
