91999E1481

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1481/99

by Lucio Manisco (GUE/NGL) to the Commission

(1 September 1999)

Subject: Pollution resulting from the war in Kosovo

During the war in Kosovo, NATO bombing attacks were deliberately targeted on refineries and chemical plants, in other words industries which pose a serious risk to the environment.

The levels of pollution caused are extremely high on account of the strong concentrations of nitrogen and sulphur oxide and other toxic chemicals which have polluted the air, the ground water and all the rivers in the region, including the Danube which is now full of toxins which are discharged into the Black Sea. The use of impoverished uranium weapons (containing 97,8 % Uranium 238) has created clouds of radioactive dust which give off radiation and may lead to the development of tumours.

1. Has the Commission prepared a specific emergency aid plan to combat the environmental pollution which has affected all of the region's inhabitants indiscriminately?

2. What sum of money has it set aside for the implementation of such a plan?

3. What urgent action has it taken to monitor air flows which are capable of transporting the radioactive dust?

4. What urgent action does it intend to take to clean up sources of drinking water?

Answer given by Mrs Wallström on behalf of the Commission

(22 October 1999)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to the replies it gave to Oral Questions H-429/99 by Mr Alavanos and H-431/99 by Mr Papayannakis during question time at Parliament's September 1999 part-session(1).

The Commission would add that it has taken a leading role in the broader international effort through actions carried out by its humanitarian office and the task force for reconstruction of Kosovo (TAFKO). The problem of polluted drinking water is recognised and being addressed in particular through the

Community's integrated rehabilitation programme for Kosovo where the financing of the repair and reconstruction of various water facilities, including a new pumping station at Gracanica is underway. Additional funds are earmarked for water projects especially in the area of Mitrovica. In addition a municipal development fund is planned, for the financing of local infrastructure projects, including water treatment.

The United Nations environment programme/United Nations centre for human settlements (habitats) (UNEP/UNHCS) Balkans task force has conducted a technical mission to assess the environmental situation in Kosovo and a full report is expected in September 1999. The Commission will examine the findings. It is, therefore, too early to say at this stage what intervention may be envisaged in the field of environment.

(1) Debates of the European Parliament (September 1999).