91997E2667

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2667/97 by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission (1 September 1997)

Subject: Survival and protection of the Cretan tracker dog

The 'Cretan tracker' is a Cretan dog to which there are countless references in ancient literature as well as pictorial representations testifying to its presence on the island since Minoan times. These descriptions together with later accounts written by travellers to the region are highly admiring of the dog's tracking ability, its relationship to people and its unique appearance.

As this species of dog - which is part of the historic fauna of Crete - is falling in numbers day by day and is liable to die out, will the Commission say:

1. what measures could be taken to classify the Cretan tracker dog as an animal in danger of extinction, and

2. what other measures could be taken to provide funding to protect the dog and help it survive?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission (3 October 1997)

Council Directive 92/43/EEC ((OJ L 206, 22.7.1992. )) on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora lists habitat types and species, including animal species in danger of extinction, requiring special management and conservation actions. The Cretan tracker dog is not included in these annexes which only refer to wild species.

Work on protection and preservation of the Cretan tracker dog would not be eligible for support under Regulation (EC) No 1467/94 on the conservation, characterisation, collection and utilisation of genetic resources in agriculture ((OJ L 159, 28.6.1994. )).