Good morning to all my fellow readers,
I want to express my gratitude to Minister Nello Musumeci and Fabio Ciciliano, the Head of the Civil Protection Department, for organizing this inaugural Civil Protection General Assembly. This gathering presents a valuable opportunity for all members of the National Civil Protection Service to engage in discussions and dialogue. It is a chance for us to come together to identify concrete solutions to the longstanding and emerging challenges that Italy faces.
The recent surge in extreme weather events due to climate change, the inherent fragility of our land, and the constant threat of natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions have prompted us to reassess the effectiveness of our Civil Protection services. The Government has put forth a proposal to reform the Civil Protection Code, aligning it with the current needs of the country. Our aim is to enhance and fortify a system that we are already proud of, one that was established by Giuseppe Zamberletti and has served as a benchmark in Europe and globally for the past four decades.
We have also taken steps to streamline the regulatory framework for post-disaster management with the introduction of the ‘Reconstruction Code’. This legislation clarifies responsibilities, streamlines decision-making processes, and outlines clear timelines for response and recovery efforts. These regulations are essential in putting an end to prolonged reconstruction periods, preventing depopulation in affected areas, and facilitating economic, production, and social rehabilitation.
While reconstruction may be a necessary cost, prevention is always an investment. The Government is committed to reinstating a culture of prevention, starting with educating our youth in schools. Equipping individuals with the knowledge of their environment’s vulnerabilities and the appropriate actions to take during emergencies is crucial. Our focus on prevention is evident in our proactive measures in the Campi Flegrei region, where we are swiftly implementing a safeguarding plan with a significant investment.
As we gather for this General Assembly, we also commemorate the anniversary of the earthquake in L’Aquila. The Civil Protection Department played a pivotal role in aiding the residents of L’Aquila and the Abruzzo Region in their recovery. The spirit of teamwork displayed during this crisis, and in many others, is a source of pride for us all. This collaborative approach underpins the Civil Protection system, ensuring coordinated and swift responses to emergencies for the benefit of all citizens.
Although the challenges ahead are numerous, we are prepared to face them head-on. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you and wish you success in your endeavors.
[Courtesy translation]
