“Once again, we hear promises about small dams and other infrastructure, but these should have been implemented immediately after the floods,” the party stated, referencing the repeated announcements about such projects since the devastating storm Daniel hit the region a year ago. “This shows the Mitsotakis government had no political will to act when it was most needed.”

Delays and doubts

MeRA25 acknowledged that some mountain hydrology and flood protection projects have finally been prioritised, but expressed scepticism about the timeline for their completion. The party also pointed out the significant sums of money spent on studies that have never been utilised, alleging that funds have ended up in the pockets of private companies rather than benefiting the region.

The critical omissions

The party placed greater emphasis on what Mitsotakis didn’t say during his speech. According to MeRA25:

  • No mention was made of the fact that many flood victims have yet to receive any financial support to restore their homes, even a year later.
  • Farmers and livestock owners have not been compensated for their losses in crops and animals.
  • The newly established Thessaly Water Management Agency is seen as a pathway to water privatisation, with concerns that it will benefit private business interests rather than protecting water as a public resource.
  • Of the €4 billion allocated for Thessaly, only €42 million will be managed by the regional authorities, with the rest going to private interests.
  • 350,000 acres of productive land in Thessaly have been approved for photovoltaic installations, reducing agricultural capacity, while wind turbines are planned for large swathes of mountainous areas, including Kissavos, Pelion, and Pindos.
  • The Prime Minister failed to address the environmental disaster at Lake Karla or plans to strengthen its management.

The party also criticised the announcement of reduced tolls, which they allege will benefit the company operating the motorways, ensuring they do not lose profits.

A broader issue for Thessaly

MeRA25 concluded by calling for a serious, sustainable plan for Thessaly that focuses on producing quality agricultural products, protecting natural resources, and safeguarding the environment. “Without such a plan, all that will be left are construction contracts and a region that continues to suffer,” the party warned.

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