“We were prepared for the wildfire season and services did a good job. We have to be aware that climate change is the main change that is occurring and will continue in the years to come.”
Božinović underscored that the Mediterranean, along with California, is one of the world’s two biggest hotspots when it comes to global warming.
Speaking about the wildfires that hit the Šibenik area on Wednesday, Božinović said that forces in the Šibenik and Vodice hinterland gradually increased, depending on how the situation developed, primarily due to unexpected changes in wind directions.
The minister specified that a total of 350 firefighters were engaged on Wednesday, mostly from Šibenik-Knin County, and half of them from six other counties, as well as 50 members of the Croatian Army and 75 police officers.
Asked how many fire-fighting aircraft Croatia has at its disposal, Božinović replied that there are currently four Canadair planes and three air-tractors available.
“By 23 July, we will have one more air-tractor, and by 30 July, one more air-tractor and one Canadair aircraft.” This means that as of 1 August, Croatia should have five Canadairs and five air-tractors at its disposal. Another Canadair, which is being overhauled, should be ready by the end of the year,” he specified.
Božinović on EPPO action: I encourage the institutions to protect the interests of Croatia and the EU
Asked to comment on the latest action by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the PNUSKOK – police anti-corruption office regarding alleged bribes and the rigging of the tender process for the extension and reconstruction of the wastewater treatment plant in Varaždin, Božinović said that all institutions have a free hand in enforcing the law.
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