Greek Environment Minister Papastavrou defends water reform bill

Environment and Energy Minister Staurós Papastavrou told parliament that Greece’s current water‑management model is inadequate and poses risks to public health. He highlighted prosecutorial investigations that found dangerous substances such as uranium, fluoride and bacteria in drinking‑water supplies in the Chalkidiki region of SiThonia and in Volvi, prompting calls for immediate investment and modernised administration.

Papastavrou defended the draft law expanding the powers of the public water utilities EYDAP and EYATH, strengthening the water‑regulatory authority and guaranteeing local participation. He dismissed accusations that the reform would privatise water, cut jobs or silence local communities, labeling them "3+1 fake news". The legislation aims to cut water‑losses of up to 60 % and improve infrastructure to ensure safe, publicly‑controlled supply for all municipalities.