Aegean island of Agios Efstratios with no ferry for 35 days

According to Article 174 of the Treaty of Lisbon, the development and pursuit of EU cohesion policy also depends directly on the accessibility of island regions.

The problem of communication with and supplies of basic commodities to the Aegean islands was highlighted by recent events on the small outlying island of Agios Efstratios. The island has had no ferry for 35 days as unpaid seamen have refused to work.

Without a ferry, the island residents face a series of problems. Farmers cannot sell their produce, the fishermen have stopped fishing as they cannot despatch their catches and tourist reservations are being cancelled one after another.

Communication between the island and mainland Greece is difficult, problems are increasing due to the lack of basic commodities, such as food, bottled water and medication, and it is impossible for residents to access welfare and medical structures.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

What measures does it intend to take and to what timetable, in order to improve the cabotage link between this island and mainland Greece, so that the residents can enjoy equal access to basic commodities and health structures and participate in economic life?

Source: European Parliament

Joint answer given by Ms Bulc on behalf of the Commission
Written questions: E-008514/15 , E-008743/15
The Union law recognises the need of Member States to ensure the territorial, economic and social cohesion of their territories, including the connections with islands. To that end Regulation 3577/92 allows Member States to organise public service to ensure regular connections with islands. The regulation does not however provide for any obligation in the matter. The decision on the public service need and its extent falls primarily under the responsibility of Member States.

Operating aid for the transport sector is not eligible for support by the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs). The Operational Programme for North Aegean has been recently approved. It will pave the way for investing some EUR 301.7 million in the programming period 2014-2020. The main objectives of the programme are to create sustainable jobs and boost growth, in line with the smart specialisation strategy, and to complete the necessary infrastructures for socioeconomic development and for ensuring the connectivity among the islands and with mainland.

Source: Europen Parliament