The Greek government has announced a comprehensive set of measures to support survivors and families affected by two of the country’s most devastating recent tragedies: the 2018 wildfire in Mati and the 2017 floods in Mandra. The Ministry of National Economy and Finance said the new provisions aim to finally resolve years-long outstanding issues and provide concrete financial, medical and institutional support.

The measures were submitted late Monday evening by Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis as amendments to a bill concerning public-benefit assets and donations. According to the ministry, the reforms “bring an end to a long-standing uncertainty” and align the treatment of these victims with that already established for those affected by the Tempi train disaster.

Protected Compensation and New Special Pension

One of the key provisions is the full protection of all court-awarded compensation. These payments will now be tax-free, non-transferable and shielded from seizure.

The package also introduces a special monthly pension of €1,700—four times the full national pension. It will be granted to close relatives of victims as well as to burn survivors from the Mati wildfire who suffered second- or third-degree burns and have a certified disability of 50% or more. The pension is tax-exempt, cannot be seized, is not offset against debts, does not affect other social benefits and increases automatically alongside the national pension.

Full Debt Cancellation

The regulations provide for automatic and universal cancellation of debts owed to the tax authority, social insurance funds and local government. This includes debts already under settlement or entered in the out-of-court mechanism, as well as liabilities linked to participation in company boards or corporate structures. Importantly, insured years corresponding to erased social-security contributions will still be fully counted.

Medical and Psychological Support

Survivors with burn injuries will receive full medical coverage, both in Greece and abroad. Families of victims are also entitled to free, personalized psychological support.

Parliamentary Vote Expected Today

The government stresses that the new measures offer long-overdue institutional care and financial relief to those who suffered in Mati and Mandra. The bill, along with the amendments, is expected to be approved by Parliament later today