Is EU support for preventing and restoring damage to forests caused by fire and natural disasters well managed? : Special report No 24/2014

In the 2007-13 programming period, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) provided support for restoring forestry potential in forests damaged by natural disasters and fire, as well as for preventive actions. The Court's audit concludes that the support was not sufficiently well managed and that the Commission and the Member States cannot demonstrate that the intended results were achieved in a cost-effective way. Preventive actions were not sufficiently targeted. The audit found actions which were not appropriate to achieve the objectives of the measure. The cost-effectiveness of the actions financed was not adequately ensured. Finally, the monitoring tools in place did not allow the Commission and the Member States to adequately assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the measure.