B4-0750/95

Resolution on the volcanic eruption on the island of Fogo (Republic of Cape Verde)

The European Parliament,

A.whereas in April 1995 there was a major volcanic eruption on the island of Fogo in the Republic of Cape Verde for the first time since 1951,

B.whereas, as a result of this eruption, villages were submerged in lava, large-scale evacuations were necessary, infrastructure was totally destroyed, with extensive material damage and human suffering,

C.whereas at least 150 families have lost their livelihood and had their family life destroyed or disrupted,

D.having regard to the first estimates of the most pressing needs as set out in the report 'the 1995 volcanic eruption and its effects - measures to alleviate the plight of those worst affected', with reference to the resettlement of displaced people, health care, housing, prevention and early warning systems, rebuilding of infrastructures, etc.,

E.whereas the volcano cannot yet be considered safe and after-effects are beginning to occur,

F.whereas the local authorities of the island of Fogo and the national authorities are unable to ensure complete recovery from the full effects of the disaster,

1.Calls on the Commission to provide emergency aid immediately, given the extremely serious nature of the situation and the possibility that it will deteriorate further from the economic and social point of view;

2.Stresses that this emergency aid should be provided in close and swift cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Cape Verde and with the local authorities, particularly on the island of Fogo;

3.Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission and the Government of the Republic of Cape Verde.