Three French MEPs from the Patriots for Europe (PfE) group have asked the European Commission whether EU funds are being used to address severe drinking water shortages in the French outermost regions of Mayotte, Guadeloupe and Martinique, warning that the situation risks becoming a humanitarian and health crisis.
André Rougé, Rody Tolassy and Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain submitted a written parliamentary question on 15 April 2026, citing a recent €1.9 million agreement between the French Geological Survey (BRGM) and the Mayotte water authority under the 2024-2027 Mayotte water plan. Despite such measures, the MEPs note that water restrictions remain severe and supply cuts frequent in Mayotte, questioning the effectiveness of public spending.
Concrete asks
The question contains two specific requests: first, whether direct or indirect EU funding is currently deployed for the water sector in the three territories; second, if not, what specific measures the Commission intends to support to ensure long-term self-sufficiency in drinking water. The MEPs do not propose numerical targets or deadlines but seek clarity on financial commitments and future EU action.
Policy orientation
The question signals a push for greater EU solidarity with outermost regions facing critical infrastructure deficits. By linking Mayotte's plight to similar problems in Guadeloupe and Martinique, the MEPs argue for a coordinated EU response rather than relying solely on national programmes. The tone is urgent, framing water shortages as a humanitarian and health emergency.
Expected follow-up
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will indicate whether EU funds are already allocated, and if not, what future support is planned. This will signal the Commission's policy direction on water resilience in outermost regions, potentially influencing budget priorities for cohesion or regional development funds.