91998E1543

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1543/98

by Roberta Angelilli (NI) to the Commission

(19 May 1998)

Subject: Pollution and lack of security on the Rome underground

A recent survey carried out by myself and other Italian politicians at stations on the "A" line of the Rome underground revealed serious shortcomings as regards health and safety.

In particular, it seems that the company Cotral, which operates the line, has taken steps to remove asbestos from only 10 out of the 70 subway cars, exposing passengers and workers to the danger of contamination, a situation made worse by the inadequate ventilation systems. The suspicion that asbestos pollution may be a risk is confirmed by the fact that the company pays its workers a monthly "asbestos allowance" (trade union agreement of 4 September 1995).

The survey of the "A" line also revealed the existence of excessive temperatures and serious overcrowding of trains during rush hours.

In addition there are no proper safety systems to deal with emergencies, partly because of the many architectural obstacles.

Does the Commission not think it appropriate to intervene in order to ensure compliance with Directives 83/477/EEC(1), 91/382/EEC(2) and 90/394/EEC(3) and the provisions transposing these directives into Italian law?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(4 August 1998)

The directives quoted by the Honourable Member have been implemented by Italy.

The information supplied by the Honourable Member does not permit the Commission to conclude that the Italian authorities have failed in their obligations to put in place adequate enforcement in the Metro in Rome.

The Commission would however be glad to receive and examine any further information that the Honourable Member can supply.

(1) OJ L 263, 24.9.1983, p. 25.

(2) OJ L 206, 29.7.1991, p. 16.

(3) OJ L 196, 26.7.1990, p. 1.