Opening remarks by Martin SCHULZ, EP President, during the EP plenary session (12-15/09/2016) in Strasbourg.&nbsp;Martin SCHULZ paid tribute to the victims of the recent earthquake in Italy. A minute of silence was held in the Chamber.

statement

Strasbourg

plenary session

EU - Italy (T)

natural disasters (T)

SCHULZ, Martin (S&D, DE)

Opening remarks by Martin SCHULZ, EP President: tribute to the victims of the recent earthquake in Italy and minute of silence

SOUNDBITE (German), Martin SCHULZ, EP President, Dear colleagues, On August 24, central Italy was rocked by a severe earthquake. Damage were reported in more than 70 villages. Some communities have even been completely destroyed. I think you can all remember the terrible pictures from Amatrice, Accumoli or Pescara del Tronto. More than 3,000 people were homeless overnight. They are were from one day to another confronted with a pile of rubble quite literally, threatening their very existence. On behalf of the European Parliament I would like to praise the work of the Italian disaster protection forces, fire brigade, paramedics, local authorities as well all the volunteers who came to the assitance of those who found their lives in danger, to provide protection and first aid. The EU will continue to stand by their side in full solidarity.

SOUNDBITE (German), Martin SCHULZ, EP President, It caused grave material damages to villages, but the damage done was not only to the Italian but the European heritage. But the material damage is nothing compared to the human tragedy.The houses, palaces and churches can be reconstructed and will be rebuilt, but the emptiness of death can not be filled. The solidarity that we have with the whole of the Italian nation is one that I would like to honour now a minute of silence, may I ask you to stand.

The members observing a minute of silence