91997E4087

WRITTEN QUESTION E-4087/97 by Katerina Daskalaki (UPE) to the Commission (16 January 1998)

Subject: Hydroelectric plant on an archeological site

Authorization has recently been given for the construction of two hydroelectric plants in the vicinity of Dimitsana, close to an area designated by the Ministry of Culture as an archeological site situated around the legendary Lousios Gortynias river, where the monasteries of Ioannou Prodromou (John the Baptist), Filosofou and the Aimialon are situated, together with ancient Gortyna. Authorization will also be given to run pipes along the river embankments. In addition, an open-air museum of hydraulics was recently opened in the same locality with cofunding from the European Union.

Will the Commission take measures to protect this area of exceptional natural beauty which is also the site of many European cultural treasures?

Answer given by Mr Oreja on behalf of the Commission (4 March 1998)

As the Honourable Member is aware, the protection of national archaelogical heritage falls exclusively within the competence and responsibility of the Member States. The Community's and the Commission's role in particular is that foreseen within the terms of subsidiarity and its intervention is clearly defined in Article 128 of the EC Treaty. Specifically, its role is to encourage cooperation among Member States in the field of cultural heritage conservation. That cooperation can be made concrete through plans co-decided by the Parliament and the Council, such as the Raphael programme.

In this context, it is evident that the Commission cannot intervene in the matter raised by the Honourable Member, namely the construction of the hydroelectric plant in the vicinity of Dimitsana.