Investments in more resilient infrastructure and security and preparedness for territories and regions that face extreme-weather events like floods was among some of the calls of the ECR Group to European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy Jessica Roswall, delivered by ECR Group Vice-President and Mayor of České Budějovice, Dagmar Škodová Parmová.

Highlighting events in her region of South Bohemia in Czechia, where they experienced floods that forced the Mayor to evacuate more than 800 people whose lives were at risk. These extreme weather-related events require preparedness and local resilience. "That's why I am convinced that local and regional authorities are better prepared to understand the need of our communities and territories", said Ms Parmová

Having territories that are better prepared for floods and droughts also minimises the impact of natural disasters on strategic economic sectors like agriculture or the wine sector. While the ECR Group acknowledges the need for a comprehensive water resilience strategy, the proposal of the European Commission should not become another brick in the wall of the green ideology. "We have already seen how overly rigid environmental agendas can hinder innovation, preventing both the private and public sector from implementing pragmatic and effective solutions", stated the Czech Mayor.

Europe is a powerhouse for research but often fails to translate it into innovation and economic growth in terms of water infrastructure solutions. "We need to further close the gap between research and practical application to address issues like water stress and ageing infrastructures", Ms Parmová concluded.