“The great fire raging uncontrollably in Northeast Attica is destroying the last remaining lung of Athens,” Arvanitis declared. “While the government sends out warnings every five minutes via the 112 emergency system, they appear incapable and powerless to act.”
Arvanitis highlighted the destruction of forests, property, and livelihoods in Attica, noting that even the urban fabric is now at risk. Reflecting on the devastation caused by wildfires in previous years—including in Evros, Rhodes, Evia, and Attica—he called for immediate and decisive action from both the Greek government and the European Commission.
“Immediate actions are needed from the European Commission and a reality check for the government. The financial tools are there,” Arvanitis insisted. He urged the government not to remember firefighters only during the summer when they are on the front lines, risking their lives, but also in the winter when they face job insecurity and are met with tear gas during protests.
Arvanitis emphasised the importance of effectively utilising European funds to strengthen Greece’s fire protection infrastructure. “It’s time to organise effective fire protection, recruit and properly train firefighters, and renew the firefighting fleet,” he stated. “This is about our future.”
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