Question for written answer E-004061/2019 to the Commission Rule 138 (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID), Luisa Regimenti (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID), (ID)

Subject: Damage caused by bad weather in -

In the second and third weeks of November, a series of exceptional rainstorms swept through the provinces of , Modena and in Emilia-Romagna.

The heavy rainfall caused rivers to rise, in particular the rivers and , and flooding of residential areas, for example in the municipality of , and of farmland around Finale Emilia; storm surges hit the area of Goro, in the , causing beach erosion and the sinking of the dredge, which plays a crucial role in keeping clear the inlet in which important economic activities based on clam fishing are carried out.

The cost of the damage appears to be high given the number of farms, maritime businesses and hotels affected in an area where agriculture and tourism are cornerstones of the local economy.

In the light of the damage and the inconvenience caused to local people and businesses:

1. Will the Commission pledge full support from the EU Solidarity Fund for the regional authorities in Emilia-Romagna and local bodies involved in restoring economic activities and infrastructure?

2. Given the frequency with which adverse weather phenomena occur, what action will it take in the future, and what exceptional funding will it make available, to guarantee the safety of businesses and communities in Emilia-Romagna?

PE645.377v01-00