Corina Cretu stressed that this is a matter that must be presented by the Portuguese authorities in order to “reprogramme the Money from other projects for different purposes”.

She said there was “European Commission solidarity” for the people affected by the fires in Madeira, recalling that the application to activate the European Solidarity Fund was presented and considered to be “eligible”, claiming the payment of the damages of around €157 million.

“The aid proposal has to go to the European Parliament council for approval”, she said.

The fires that affected Madeira in the second week of August caused three deaths, hundreds were made homeless and more than 200 homes were destroyed.