92001E2568

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2568/01

by Richard Corbett (PSE) to the Commission

(21 September 2001)

Subject: EU assistance for hydrological projects in Spain

Has the Commission verified that any EU assistance provided under the Structural Funds for hydrological projects in Spain is in support of projects which are environmentally sound and which meet the requirements of the Water Directives?

Is the Commission aware of the criticisms that have been made of extraction plans for the river Ebro made by the Platform for the Defence of the Ebro (PDE)? What is the Commission's view of these criticisms, and will that view have an influence on the decisions taken?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(12 November 2001)

Under Council Regulation (EC) No 1164/1994 of 16 May 1994 establishing a Cohesion Fund(1) and Council Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds(2), any project part-financed from these Funds must conform with Community legislation, including the rules on environmental protection.

The Commission is aware of the criticism about the extraction plans for the Ebro and has met representatives of the associations opposed to the scheme. It has taken note of the concern expressed in this connection and will examine the matter in the light of the relevant Community legislation.

(1) OJ L 130, 25.5.1994, as amended by Council Regulations (EC) No 1264/1999 of 21.6.1999 and (EC) No 1265/1999 of 21.6.1999, in OJ L 161, 26.6.1999.

(2) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999.