B4-1276 and 1322/96

Resolution on the fire which has destroyed part of the historic 'Paços do Concelho' building in Lisbon

The European Parliament,

A. having regard to the severe fire which has destroyed part of the historic 'Paços do Concelho' building in Lisbon,

B. having regard to the importance of this building for the heritage of Lisbon and its historical and cultural significance for Portugal, as well as its importance for democratic local government in Lisbon,

C. whereas the substantial material damage caused has been estimated to be in the region of Esc 2 bn (ECU 10 m),

D. whereas the prompt and efficient action by the city authorities in combating the fire stopped the damage from being worse and prevented the devastation of artistic and historic assets of incalculable value,

E. whereas the EU must express solidarity with its citizens by supporting them on those matters most directly concerning and affecting them,

The European Parliament,

1. Expresses its solidarity with the people of Lisbon, and, in particular, with the Mayor, João Soares, the City Council and the municipal workers;

2. Draws attention to the prompt response of the security services, firefighters and other public services;

3. Notes and welcomes the immediate commencement of restoration work, with the committed support of the municipal authorities, the government, the parliament and all political parties;

4. Recommends that the Commission make available to the Lisbon municipal authorities and the Portuguese authorities all the support necessary to cope with the severity of the damage;

5. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission, the Council, the Portuguese Government and Parliament and the Lisbon City Council.