The President of the Italian Republic replies to the letter of the presidents of the National Parks and Federparchi
(04 Aug 10)
Dear Dottor Sammuri,
I have received the letter you signed as President of the Italian Federation of Parks and Nature Reserves - Europarc Italia, together with all the Presidents of the National Park Authorities, in which you explain the difficult situation of the protected areas you have been entrusted, because of the considerable reduction of the funds allocated by the State.
I have read with concern the expectations on the difficulties, or even the impossibility to work, that your mission of safeguard of the territory will run into. As you have rightly noticed, I have no authority as far as the economic policy of the government is concerned. However, I mentioned the problem you raised in my speech at the Ceremony of "Consegna del Ventaglio" held on July 23rd, during which I highlighted the need of "a strong and measured policies... for the enhancement of our environmental heritage". I therefore reassert the auspice of a careful assessment of the stakes as far as the destiny of the National Parks is concerned, and of a consequent attention by the competent Institutions.
To you and all the signers of the letter, best regards and a particularly hearty wish of a good work.
Giorgio Napolitano
