The controversial Mose flood barrier system “will be able to function” in emergency situations within six months, Venice city mayor Luigi Brugnaro told local media on Tuesday. 

The record floods the city suffered in November revived residents' anger over the fact that the long-delayed, scandal-hit project is still not up and running."Within six months all the Mose sluice gates will be able to function for emergencies," Brugnaro said, after a meeting with other officials on safeguarding the city against flooding.