Greece: "Emergency" Compensation for Fire Victims

Greece announced that it will provide emergency compensation amounting to millions of euros for hundreds of families and businesses affected by a fire that resulted in the death of a woman and burned ten thousand hectares near Athens, according to reports from global media today. The fire began on August 11 near the town of "Varnavas," located 35 kilometers from the capital, Athens, and within one day, it reached the northern suburbs of the city on the slopes of Mount "Penteli." Inspections so far have identified approximately 146 severely damaged homes and 31 affected businesses. According to a statement from the Greek Ministry of Finance, the authorities will provide up to 150,000 euros for families, with 80% coming from government aid and 20% from interest-free loans, and up to 500,000 euros for destroyed businesses. The Greek government will hold a parliamentary discussion next month regarding its handling of the recent wildfire season. The European Commission has also announced that it is currently activating a system for European countries to assist Greece in combating the ongoing wildfires.