The European Parliament's Environment and Health Committee (ENVI) believes that the RescEU civil protection mechanism should be adequately funded over the period 2021-2027, to the tune of at least €1.4 billion, according to a draft report adopted on Thursday 5 March by a large majority (60 votes in favour, 2 against, 7 abstentions).
While a large part of the funding should be spent on preparing for the purchase of equipment and materials, the budget envelope should also be used to prevent a crisis and to respond promptly, say MEPs. From their point of view, and for the sake of transparency, it should be clarified how the money is distributed between the three pillars—prevention, preparedness and response—of the RescEU mechanism.
“The budget cuts proposed by Member States for one of the most effective and efficient programmes in the EU are unacceptable. The assets of RescEU and civil protection operations must be properly supported and defended. They are the best embodiment of EU solidarity”, said Nikos Androulakis (S&D, Greece), the European Parliament rapporteur for this dossier.
The EU civil protection mechanism supports Member States during natural disasters and for evacuating EU citizens in crisis situations, such as the current COVID-19 outbreak.
Once the European Parliament's position is agreed, inter-institutional negotiations can begin with the Council of the EU. (Original version in French by Mathieu Bion)