“The government’s projects regarding natural hazards on the Reykjanes Peninsula are far from complete and are expected to take many more years or decades.”
This is stated in a joint announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs.
It also states that German experts from the consulting firm Deloitte will be involved in drawing up future scenarios for Grindavík in cooperation with the Secretary of State’s steering group and various parties in ministries, institutions and Grindavík Town.
Extensive measures taken to ensure safety
The announcement states that due to the volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula, the government has recently taken extensive measures to ensure public safety as well as to protect and ensure the functioning of important infrastructure.
It is pointed out that the majority of residential buildings in Grindavík have been purchased by residents and various housing and financial support have been provided to ensure the best possible financial security for people.
Defense walls have also been built against lava flows that threaten settlements and infrastructure.
Various analytical work has also been carried out to strengthen the resilience and response capacity of society.
A special executive committee on Grindavík issues has also been established to manage and coordinate actions.
Prepare further policy development
“The government has discussed various issues related to Grindavík and security on the Reykjanes Peninsula in its meetings and held a meeting in the Council of Ministers on Grindavík issues. After the Council of Ministers meeting on January 14, the Prime Minister instructed the Steering Group of the Secretary of State for Grindavík Affairs to prepare further state policy development for the Council of Ministers,” the announcement says.
Further policy development will include, among other things, an opinion survey among those who lived in Grindavík at the beginning of the disaster, an assessment of the need for further resources for individuals and companies, and the creation of scenarios for the future of Grindavík.
Source: Icelandmonitor.mbl.is
