Mattarella by helicopter to Niscemi. The embrace of the displaced families and the appeal to 'get to work'
President Sergio Mattarella visited Niscemi to meet with displaced families affected by recent landslides, emphasizing the need for collaboration and support for youth in the recovery process.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella made a surprise visit to Niscemi, a town recently devastated by severe landslides. From the helicopter, he observed the extensive damage, which included a five-kilometer stretch of destroyed homes and infrastructure, and expressed his commitment to understanding the needs of the community in person. He met with residents, shook hands, and visited local institutions such as schools and municipal offices to listen to the stories of those affected by the disaster.
During his visit, Mattarella offered words of encouragement and tasked local administrators with taking proactive measures, especially concerning the younger population impacted by the disaster. His approach was described as measured, avoiding overly rhetorical language while reinforcing the presence and support of the state in the recovery efforts. The government had already begun to allocate financial aid, marking the start of a broader response to the crisis with an initial funding pot of 150 million euros.
The visit comes alongside repeated commitments from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has also visited the area. The urgency of the situation was evident as the community faced significant challenges in rebuilding. Mattarella's engagement highlights the importance of governmental support in times of crisis and the necessity for collaborative efforts to enable recovery and resilience, especially for the youth who face uncertain futures in the aftermath of such disasters.