EUROPE NEEDS ACTION ON DISASTER EARLY WARNING SYSTEM - LIZ LYNNE

8.29.00pm GMT Wed 12th Dec 2007

A coordinated, multilingual early warning system across the EU could save lives during developing emergencies, but faster action is needed to set it up, according to a local Liberal Democrat MEP.

Liz Lynne, MEP for the West Midlands region and Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, has co-authored a Written Declaration (similar to an Early Day Motion at Westminster) to call for such a system to be established without delay. If signed by over half of MEPs before it lapses in February the subject will be debated in the European Parliament.

Speaking today Liz Lynne said:

"What I am calling for is faster progress towards setting up an early warning system to provide public warnings on imminent or emerging serious events, such as widespread flooding or a poisonous chemical leak."

Notice would spread via all available means of technology, such as SMS text message, television or siren with instructions on what to do next.

Liz added:

"The frustrating thing is it is provided for in existing legislation and been called for by Parliament, but progress is slow, which it is why my colleagues and I felt it was necessary to push for quicker action. The sooner the system is in place the better, as it would give citizens an extra level of security in emergencies.

"I am pleased that in the short time since this declaration was launched an encouraging number of my colleagues have signed up. Getting a formal parliamentary debate on this subject would be a major step towards this new system saving lives."