The amendments of Elena Kountoura, MEP of SYRIZA – PS, were voted in favour in the Plenary of the European Parliament with great success. These amendments are now incorporated into the official positions of the Parliament and aim to strengthen the islands, address the housing crisis and promote sustainable tourism.
Of particular importance is the recognition of the special conditions faced by the Greek islands, such as the Cyclades. The European Parliament recognizes their permanent disadvantages, which stem from their natural isolation and the effects of climate change, and calls for targeted support.
Key points concerning the islands and the Cyclades:
- Special arrangements and funding: Special measures and enhanced financial support are foreseen for the islands, in order to address the acute problems of sustainable development and energy transformation.
- Reduced tax rates: The MEP’s proposal was adopted to make island regions eligible for reduced tax rates under the Just Transition Fund. This could be a crucial tool for providing financial relief to residents and businesses.
- Tackling the housing crisis: The European Parliament calls for enhanced funding for targeted housing policies on the islands, taking into account the pressures exerted by tourism and speculation on rent and property prices. The aim is to ensure the fundamental right of residents to remain in their place.
- Supporting sustainable tourism: Cohesion Policy is called upon to support strategies and investments for sustainable tourism, which will promote resilience, innovation and create new jobs, while preserving the cultural heritage of the islands.
As the Cyclades SYRIZA PS Prefectural Committee points out, “the vote in favour of its positions constitutes a significant victory for Greece and in particular for the islands, as official pressure is now being exerted on the Commission to implement policies that will substantially support local communities.”
