Greek MPs call for tourism support in Ioannina and fire service upgrades in Rethymno

Ioannis Tsimaris, a PASOK – Movement for Change MP for Ioannina, has called for immediate government intervention to support small family-run accommodations in the mountainous regions of the Ioannina regional unit. Citing a report from the Association of Hoteliers of N. Ioannina, Tsimaris noted a prolonged decline in occupancy rates and turnover.

The decline is attributed to geopolitical developments affecting key foreign markets and shrinking disposable income. To ensure the sustainability of these businesses, which are vital to the local economy, Tsimaris proposed several measures: the establishment of a ‘Tourism for All’ program specifically for mountain destinations, increased annual promotion by the Greek National Tourism Organization (EOT), and subsidies for net metering to offset high energy costs.

In a separate matter, Manolis Chnaris, MP for Rethymno, has submitted a parliamentary inquiry regarding the urgent need to upgrade the Rethymno Fire Service and the Spili and Perama units. Following a devastating fire in July that resulted in the loss of two firefighters, Chnaris argued that current prevention measures are insufficient given the climate crisis and increased tourism activity. He noted that the Rethymno Fire Service has remained a Class B station since 1981, which he claims fails to meet the modern needs of the prefecture.