91998E0366

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0366/98 by Stefano De Luca (ELDR) to the Commission (24 February 1998)

Subject: Community aid for the restoration of the Petruzzelli Theatre

On 27 October 1991, the Petruzzelli Theatre in Bari, which was built between 1898 and 1903 and is the only privately owned theatre in Europe, was severely damaged by a terrible fire.

In 1996 another famous Italian theatre, 'La Fenice' in Venice, was completely destroyed.

However, while extensive Community assistance was provided for the rebuilding of 'La Fenice', the Petruzzelli has received only ECU 80 000 for the partial restoration of its foyer.

1. Does the Commission consider that this curious discrepancy is a result of the fact that, unlike other European theatres, the Petruzzelli Theatre is privately owned?

2. Does the Commission not consider that, in view of the historical and artistic value of the Petruzzelli Theatre in Bari, Community funds should be provided to enable the restoration work to be completed, since the theatre's owners, the Messeni Nemegna family, do not have the finance needed themselves?

Answer given by Mr Oreja on behalf of the Commission (8 April 1998)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to written question E-4189/97 by Mr Viceconte and by Mr Parodi ((OJ C 196, 22.6.1998, p. 96. )).