EPSU message of solidarity following Italian earthquake

A big earthquake hit the towns of Accumoli, Amatrice, and the village of Pescara del Tronto amongst others in the very early hours of 24 August 2016. Close to 60 (*) have died, many are still missing buried under the rubble and others have been injured. It is with great sadness that we express our sincere condolences to the families, friends and co-workers of those killed by the earthquake. Our thoughts are with them and the injured. Many people are homeless.

In those early hours many people came to the rescue, working sometimes with their bare hands to rescue those injured and trapped. We salute their work and of the public service workers. Firefighters, police, medical staff and many others are providing support, shelter and safety to the people communities hit by the earthquake. 

It is now for the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to rebuild the towns and villages and offer a prospect of hope.

(*) on Wednesday 24 August.

Italy