Provision of financial support for the procurement of a maritime National Centre of Emergency Care (EKAB)

Question for written answer E-001995/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Georgios Aftias (PPE) Subject: Provision of financial support for the procurement of a maritime National Centre of Emergency Care (EKAB) Greece’s vast coastline, exceeding 14 000 kilometres, makes it the longest in the European Union. There are approximately 6 000 islands, small islets and rocky islets in Greece. Of these islands, 227 are inhabited, with a population ranging from 100 to 500 inhabitants. Many of these islands do not have fully staffed hospital units. In emergencies, the urgent transport of patients to the nearest island with a hospital presents major problems. The residents of these small islands will get comfort from the existence of a maritime EKAB, as it will transport them immediately and safely to the nearest island with a hospital unit. On the basis of this data: 1. Does the Commission intend to subsidise public bodies in Greece to procure high-speed boats, which will also be equipped with appropriate medical equipment to be used to transport patients from one island to another? 2. Can the Commission finance Coast Guard vessels, so that with relevant medical and technological upgrades they can be used to provide medical and pharmaceutical treatment to residents of hard-to-reach areas? Submitted: 19.5.2025 PE774.144v01-00