At its thirteenth session, held on 11 May, the Poverty Reduction Committee discussed the situation in flooded areas of the Republic of Serbia.

Representatives of bodies from areas at risk explained the situation and presented data on damage caused by the floods to crops, livestock, buildings and infrastructure in the municipalities of Leskovac, Krusevac, Plandiste, Prokuplje, Zitoradja, Blace, Secanj, Zitiste and Bela Crkva.

Officials of the Ministry of Health informed the deputies of the risk of epidemics, as well as of activities and measures undertaken in the flooded areas to protect the health of the population.

The Poverty Reduction Team of the Government of the Republic of Serbia informed the Committee of results of negotiations with foreign aid donors aimed at ensuring humanitarian aid for the affected areas.

Committee members concluded that there was good co-ordination between the Government of the Republic of Serbia, the Executive Council of Vojvodina and the Emergency Centre. The Conclusions also state that the Government of the Republic of Serbia must provide both short-term (by addressing consequences of the floods) and long-term relief (by preparing a development strategy for the least developed areas). Assembly Committees were advised to consider the current situation, from the point of view of their competencies, while local self-government bodies were advised to consider projects with which to apply for funding from international aid donors. The Committee also requested local and Republic bodies, especially public utility services, to ensure the functioning of the flood defence system.