WRITTEN QUESTION E-2712/01

by Konstantinos Hatzidakis (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(3 October 2001)

Subject: Destruction of a biotope in Elafoniso in Crete included in the Natura network

Since the beginning of the Summer the Municipality of Pelakano has been constructing an outdoor car park at Elafoniso in Crete (in the prefecture of Chania) in an area protected by the Natura network and included in the Life programme. This project is destroying an important biotope, and local inhabitants are protesting against it.

What measures does the Commission intend to take to maintain this biotope which is protected under the Natura network?

Answer given by Mrs Wallström on behalf of the Commission

(12 November 2001)

The island of Elafonissos and the coast opposite have been formally proposed by the Greek authorities as Sites of Community Importance (codes GR 4340002 and 4340015 respectively) for inclusion in the Natura 2000 network under the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of wild fauna and flora)(1). Management measures have also been prepared for Elafonissos as part of a LIFE-Nature project.

The Greek authorities are responsible for preserving this area and must take all necessary measures to ensure that activities pursued there do not cause it to deteriorate. The management plan should, in particular, be taken into consideration.

The Commission would ask the Honourable Member to provide further information on the problem, so that it may do the necessary research and reply to his question.

(1) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992.