Brussels, 22/02/2010 (Agence Europe) - As soon as news was received of the torrential rains and devastating mud slides on the island of Madeira on Saturday 20 February, the European Union expressed its solidarity with the families of the victims of this natural disaster. European Commission President José Manuel Barroso was in contact with the President of the regional government of Madeira Alberto Joao Jardim conveying his condolences to those affected and giving assurances that the Commission would follow the situation very closely. The Portuguese authorities could count on the support of the Commission in this terrible catastrophe, he said.
In a press release, EP President Jerzy Buzek, on behalf of the European Parliament, expressed his “heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims” and wished “those injured a speedy recovery”.
In a letter to Portuguese Prime Minister José Socrates on Monday 22 February, the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy said, “I am greatly saddened by the news of this terrible natural disaster that has struck the island of Madeira over the past few days. My thoughts are with the injured and the families of the victims. I convey my condolences to the people and authorities of Portugal”.
EU foreign ministers, meeting in Brussels on Monday 22 February, also expressed their condolences to the people. Portuguese Secretary of State Pedro Lourtie announced that his government would contact the European Commission to request assistance as soon as civil protection needs had been more accurately identified. For the moment, the Portuguese civil protection are treating those whose needs are greatest.
Portugal will also announce three days of mourning for this tragedy which has claimed 43 three lives and injured dozens more. 250 people are still unaccounted for. (A.N./transl.rt)