Slovak PM offers help after terrible fire in Polish village

The fire which broke out on Saturday evening in the village of Nowa Biała (Małopolskie province) has damaged 25 houses, in which 27 families had lived (over 100 people), as well as some 50 outbuildings.

"I follow the unfortunate tragic event in Nowa Biała close to our borders. I am very sorry for the damage caused to the village and the loss of homes to over 100 people" - Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger wrote on Twitter.

Addressing his Polish counterpart Mateusz Morawiecki, Heger added that "Slovakia is ready to provide any help you might need".

PM Morawiecki replied to the offer and thanked for willingness to help and solidarity. "We can always count on our friendship with Slovakia" - he stressed.

Located in the region of Spisz, Nowa Biała was historically a Slovak village. Members of Slovak minority in Poland have been living there ever since.

Spokesperson for the Voivode of Małopolskie province Joanna Paździo said on Sunday that a first tranche of aid for the victims of the fire would be transferred to the Nowy Targ municipality's account on Monday.

The municipality authorities have asked for support for 27 families who lived in 25 buildings, amounting to 162,000 zlotys.

Apart from the immediate support, the families will be able to receive up 20,000 zlotys to repair their houses. In special cases, the aid can be higher, but no more than 100,000 zlotys.

Some residents will be able to receive financial support of up to 200,000 zlotys to rebuild their homes. For this, decision to dismantle the building and damage estimation by a certified person would be needed.

PM Morawiecki on Sunday reassured the residents of Nowa Biała they would not be left alone and that they would receive necessary help. "Only human solidarity can overcome the force of fire. We shall certainly display this solidarity here" - he said.