European Parliament approves aid to Greek islands hit by 2015 quake

European lawmakers on Tuesday approved funding of over 1.5 million euros to assist three Greek islands that suffered widespread damage in a 6.1-Richter earthquake in November 2015.

The funding of 1,651,834 euros from the EU Solidarity Fund was approved by 646 EMPs; seven voted against the aid and 23 abstained. It will be distributed to authorities on the Ionian Sea islands of Cephalonia, Lefkada and Ithaca to help with repairs to roads, ports, public buildings, private homes and cultural and tourism facilities.

Greece in April received 10 percent of the amount as a down payment to commence reconstruction work.

The vote was held following a request submitted to European Parliament's Committee on Budgets by New Democracy MEP Giorgos Kyrtsos.