Opposition offers strategy on resolving post-Gerdec

TIRANA, April 13 – The opposition Socialist Party has launched an initiative to resolve the post-blast problems in the Gerdec area and for those people affected by the March 15 explosion which killed at least 26 persons and injured more than 300.
The socialists introduced an initiative to provide 100 percent compensation for those affected persons, asking that the initiative be immediately placed onto parliament’s agenda.
The socialists said their experts had worked with a group of people from the affected region, which they said was a primary area in need of assistance.
The socialists said they would first ask affected persons to file a claim regarding damages and losses, followed by a commission which would verify the claims. They also said people making false statements would be punished.
The socialists further said it is imperative to act quickly as those suffering remain unclear about how they will be compensated for damage.
The initiative also deals with how to assure transparency regarding money managed by the government with the high auditing council checking the entire process of compensation.
The opposition socialists said they were very concerned about those victims of the Gerdec tragedy who could become invalids due to their injuries, as well as for families of those killed.
Additionally, the socialists asked the government to introduce a draft law within ten days to assure pensions are received by families in which someone was killed.
The socialists said the initiative was put at the disposal of the affected community and the government for comment.
“I believe to everyone it is clear that the Gerdec tragedy occurred because of, and due to, the state’s responsibility and it should be this government which contributes to its solution and closes its wounds,” said Valentina Leskaj, head of the Socialist parliamentary group.