Press Release: Greek fires: Commission reiterates its sadness and welcomes European solidarity

Five fire-fighting Canadair planes supplied by France and Italy are currently helping Greece combat the devastating fires that broke out on 24 August 2007 and have claimed at least 50 lives. Another three Canadairs are on their way and offers for help are still coming in from the members of the Community Mechanism for Civil Protection coordinated by the European Commission. Seven specialised helicopters are also being despatched. This is the biggest offer of assistance to a Member State since the Mechanism was set up in 2001.