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The Water Rescue Services of Hungary (VMSZ) have received a higher government subsidy than before, amounting to HUF 26 million (EUR 65,000), the State Secretary for Health announced on Tuesday in Alsóörs (northern shore of Lake Balaton).
Péter Takács indicated that the Ministry of the Interior had previously contributed HUF 20 million (EUR 50,000) annually to the organization’s operations, partly to ensure greater safety for residents around Lake Balaton and partly for tourists visiting the area.
He emphasized that this year, Károly Kontrát, member of parliament representing the northeastern Balaton region, initiated an increase in the amount of support.
“We are in the midst of an energy crisis, fuel prices have risen, and the Ministry of the Interior felt that the safety of vacationers, swimmers, and sailors at Lake Balaton could not be compromised for the sake of six million forints,” the State Secretary explained.
“Rupert” rescue boat in Alsóörs. Photo: MTI/Katona Tibor
He emphasized that anyone can get into trouble on the water, therefore it is good to know that there are people everyone can count on.
The VMSZ does high-quality work in professional cooperation with the National Ambulance Service, with a fleet of vehicles suitable for water rescue and an ambulance equipped with the latest rescue technology,
he said.
Lake Balaton. Photo: Hungary Today
Kontrát expressed his gratitude for the increased funding and emphasized that lifeguards contribute greatly to the safety of those living in and vacationing in the region.
Storm forecasting observatory in Siófok. Photo: MTI/Vasvári Tamás
Sándor Bagyó, president of the VMSZ, said that the increased funding provides important help for their civil organization, as they perform a number of tasks, from beach and deep water rescue to emergency medical care and diving services.
He pointed out that
they are present at Lake Balaton 24 hours a day, winter and summer, and they remain at the lake in autumn, as well as during the fishing season.
They consider their presence in winter to be important for Lake Balaton, which is open all year round. They have been on standby at the lake every winter for six years now, the VMSZ President added. He noted that every season has its own characteristics, and this summer, sudden strong winds and severe storms posed challenges at Lake Balaton.
Via MTI, Featured image: MTI/Katona Tibor