In order to renovate or create shelters in Latvia, the country needs funding of at least EUR 98 679 900, according to the report submitted by the Ministry of the Interior to the government.
In 2025 the required funding amount will be EUR 9 867 990, in 2026 – EUR 9 867 990, in 2027 – EUR 9 867 990, and between 2028 and 2034, the required funding amount will reach EUR 9 867 990 annually.
The estimate was based on assumptions the average capacity of a single shelter would be 200 people, and in places in which people can take shelter would be 100. There is also the assumption that shelter will be provided to 624 000 residents. This means 3 120 shelters. Places that offer shelter are planned to provide shelter to 1 249 000 people – 12 490 locations.
Looking at existing and potential sources of financing to motivate residents to form shelters in buildings, the Ministry of the Interior has multiple possible solutions.
The sources of financing may include the European Union funds and the state support programme financed from the budget of the Ministry of Environment Protection and Regional Development. If EU funds fully or partially cover the cost of restoration or creation of shelters, the state financing programme would not be necessary or its funding will be lower.
Also, the source of funding could come from municipal investment project applications requesting a loan from the state budget. Additionally, at the state or municipal level, tax incentives could be offered to those who have renovated or created shelters or places of refuge in the building or parts thereof.
Funding may also come from co-financing from the municipality.
Considering the aforementioned, a motivational financing mechanism that would not create any influence on the state budget would be welcome – EU funds for the renovation or creation of shelters and places of refuge, as noted in the report.
If the financing of EU funds does not cover the necessary costs, the incentive financial mechanism – the state support program for the renovation or creation of shelters or places of refuge – should be supported.
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