http://www.europarl.europa.eu/QP-WEB
WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER

Written questions by Members of the European Parliament and their answers given by a European Union institution

(2014/C 88 E/01)

Contents

E-007293/13 by Marc Tarabella to the Commission

Subject: Hungary criminalises the homeless

Version française

English version

E-009020/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Veneto region of Italy not eligible for EU funding to tackle youth unemployment

Versione italiana

English version

E-009021/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: EUR 1.5 billion in funding to Italy to combat youth unemployment

Versione italiana

English version

E-009023/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Subsidising agricultural production

English version

E-009024/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Fall in diabetes deaths

English version

E-009025/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Criminal convictions of trafficked persons

English version

E-009026/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Testing of lintels

English version

E-009027/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: European Alliance for Apprenticeships

English version

E-009028/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Number of skin cancer cases

English version

E-009029/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Murder of women

English version

E-009031/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Persecution of Christians in Sudan

English version

E-009032/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Child obesity

English version

E-009033/13 by Marina Yannakoudakis to the Commission

Subject: Treatments for children with cancer

English version

E-009034/13 by Marina Yannakoudakis to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Attacks on LGBTI organisations and defenders in Cameroon

English version

E-009036/13 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Renewable energy in Spain

Versión española

English version

E-009037/13 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Versión española

English version

E-009040/13 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Versión española

English version

E-009042/13 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Versión española

English version

E-009044/13 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Versión española

English version

E-009038/13 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Versión española

English version

P-009045/13 by Bernd Posselt to the Commission

Subject: Trials of former Croatian Prime Minister Sanader

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009046/13 by Gay Mitchell to the Commission

Subject: Unlocking the consumer protection market

English version

E-009047/13 by Alyn Smith to the Commission

Subject: Follow up on Written Question E-002862/2013

English version

E-009048/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Decision by Greek court against Hellenic Competition Commission

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009049/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Insulting statements by director of Eurostat about the Greek judicial authorities

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009050/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Humanitarian situation in Syria and representation of minorities at Geneva Peace Conference

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009051/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: IMF report on European banks

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009053/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Why was the expensive solution chosen for ATE?

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009054/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Reporting subsidies on products in Greek public transport corporations and organisations

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009055/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Financing education in Greece

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009056/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Future haircut to Greek debt held by official sector

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009057/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Huge problems for citizens with cases pending before the OEK — cases in Achaia and Platy (Imathia)

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009058/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Alarming fish mortality in the Venice lagoon, due to possible water pollution

Versione italiana

English version

E-009059/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Employment of teachers in Portugal

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009060/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Spending cuts in education in Portugal

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009061/13 by Ismail Ertug to the Commission

Subject: Revision of the TSI Noise

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009062/13 by Cristiana Muscardini and Susy De Martini to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Importing doctors from Cuba

Versione italiana

English version

E-009063/13 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission

Subject: Closure to traffic of Via dei Fori Imperiali: possible infringement of public procurement legislation

Versione italiana

English version

E-009064/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Possible underestimation of the environmental impact of a project for a special waste disposal facility at Lughignano di Casale sul Sile (TV)

Versione italiana

English version

E-009065/13 by Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy to the Commission

Subject: Warehousing and financial players

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009108/13 by Marc Tarabella to the Council

Subject: Cyber activists sentenced to 10 years in prison

Version française

English version

E-009109/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: Meeting between Commissioner Barnier and Gerry Grimstone

English version

P-011704/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: Failure to answer question on EU Funding of UK NGOs

English version

E-009110/13 by Jo Leinen, Chris Davies, Bas Eickhout, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, Sabine Wils and Sirpa Pietikäinen to the Commission

Subject: Construction of illegal power plant in Opole, Poland (infringement proceedings against Poland for delay in the transposition of Directive 2009/31/EC)

Deutsche Fassung

Nederlandse versie

Suomenkielinen versio

English version

E-009111/13 by Seán Kelly to the Commission

Subject: Common charger for small electronic devices

English version

E-009112/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ I

English version

E-009113/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ II

English version

E-009114/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ III

English version

E-009115/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ IV

English version

E-009116/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ V

English version

E-009117/13 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission

Subject: Availability of funding for the ‘Progetto Telefono Blu’ (Blue Telephone Project)

Versione italiana

English version

P-009200/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Expected boost as a result of the EU-USA Trade Agreement

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009201/13 by Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández to the Commission

Subject: Fracking

Versión española

English version

E-009202/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Environmental pollution in Galicia

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009203/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Economic developments in Bulgaria and their impact

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009204/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Economic problems in Croatia

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009205/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Economic developments in Romania and their impact

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009206/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: More net from the gross

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009207/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Corruption in Europe

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009208/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Inquiry into imported foodstuffs from the USA

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009209/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: IT — loss of confidence and effects on competitiveness

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009210/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Human rights violations in Oman

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009211/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Drugs policy — new challenges

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009212/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Trisomy 21 blood test — medical ethical implications

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009213/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Flexible retirement model

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009214/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Cosmetics and consumer protection

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009215/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Genetically modified plants (Monsanto)

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009216/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Health hazard posed by electromagnetic fields — reassessment

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009217/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Situation in Congo

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009218/13 by Angelika Werthmann to the Commission

Subject: Lost revenue in Greece

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009219/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Letter from the Commission to the Greek Government concerning Cosco

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009220/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Change in Greek law on collective redundancies

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009221/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: ROP for Western Greece — the Ionian Islands — the Peloponnese

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009222/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Progress in implementing the ‘Alexander Baltatzis’ Programme

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009223/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Clearance of EAGGF and EAFRD accounts

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009224/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Provision in the amendment to Regulation 562/2006 (Schengen Borders Code)

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009225/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Need for health studies for residents of the Fyli landfill area

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009226/13 by Rachida Dati to the Council

Subject: Need for swift agreement on the data protection package

Version française

English version

E-009228/13 by Esther de Lange to the Commission

Subject: Fines unpaid by diplomats

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009229/13 by Esther de Lange to the Commission

Subject: Dangerous swimming toys for babies and young children

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009230/13 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — EU plan to establish its own secret service

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009231/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Review of state aid rules for airports

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009266/13 by Claude Moraes to the Commission

Subject: World Health Organisation (WHO) report on air quality in cities

English version

E-009267/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Women journalists ‘abused’ by police

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009450/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Turkish Prime Minister to take legal action against The Times

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009268/13 by Arlene McCarthy to the Commission

Subject: Bank charges

English version

E-009269/13 by Catherine Stihler to the Commission

Subject: Protection of indigenous ladybird species in the EU

English version

E-009271/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Revamping of a special waste treatment plant in Marghera (Venice), authorised possibly in breach of Directive 2001/42/EC on Strategic Environmental Assessment

Versione italiana

English version

E-009272/13 by Roberta Angelilli and Aldo Patriciello to the Commission

Subject: Possible funding of the creation of an Interregional Archaeological and Environmental Park

Versione italiana

English version

E-009273/13 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Protests in Turkey (follow-up question)

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009274/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Support for promoting small producers' products

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009275/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Support for modernising small local shops

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009276/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Support for projects publicising local businesses

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009277/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Funding of research centres

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009278/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Situation of Casa do Douro

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009279/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Local government

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009280/13 by Vladko Todorov Panayotov to the Commission

Subject: The 2013 Cypriot financial crisis and the impact of the Troika deal on the EU

българска версия

English version

E-009281/13 by Daniel Hannan to the Commission

Subject: Gibraltar

English version

E-009283/13 by Cornelis de Jong to the Commission

Subject: Discrimination against European consumers by companies requiring national registration numbers

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009284/13 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiations

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009285/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Asbestos in the water supply of Ambelona in the municipality of Tyrnavos in Larissa Prefecture

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009286/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Uncontrolled dumping of waste and threat of environmental degradation of Lake Trichonida (Natura 2000 site GR 2310009)

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009287/13 by Constance Le Grip to the Commission

Subject: Commission's role as competition regulator

Version française

English version

E-009289/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Red label for Italian products sold in the United Kingdom

Versione italiana

English version

E-009290/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Less red tape for Italian wine growers

Versione italiana

English version

E-009291/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: EU swimming against the protectionist tide

Versione italiana

English version

E-009292/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Third countries targeting EU goods with protectionist policies

Versione italiana

English version

E-009293/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: EU protectionist policy

Versione italiana

English version

E-009294/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Horses whose slaughter is not permitted

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009295/13 by Saïd El Khadraoui to the Commission

Subject: Investment in commodities

Nederlandse versie

English version

P-009439/13 by Anneli Jäätteenmäki to the Commission

Subject: Decline in Finnish forest reindeer populations

Suomenkielinen versio

English version

E-009440/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Minorities in Turkey tagged with ‘race codes’

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009441/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Marine seismic activities in the Mediterranean Sea

Versione italiana

English version

E-009442/13 by Emer Costello to the Commission

Subject: EU policy on Area C of the West Bank (I)

English version

E-009443/13 by Emer Costello to the Commission

Subject: EU policy on Area C of the West Bank (II)

English version

E-009444/13 by Emer Costello to the Commission

Subject: EU policy on Area C of the West Bank (III)

English version

E-009445/13 by Emer Costello to the Commission

Subject: EU policy on Area C of the West Bank (IV)

English version

E-009447/13 by Nessa Childers to the Commission

Subject: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and the Tobacco Products Directive

English version

E-009448/13 by Jürgen Creutzmann to the Commission

Subject: Possible conflict between German gambling law and EU competition rules

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009449/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Deterioration of Turkey's foreign policy

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009451/13 by Dubravka Šuica to the Commission

Subject: Pelješac bridge — ensuring Croatian/European territorial continuity

Hrvatska verzija

English version

E-009452/13 by Nigel Farage to the Commission

Subject: EU funding of NGOs in the UK

English version

E-009453/13 by Monika Panayotova to the Commission

Subject: EU-funded deinstitutionalisation of children in Bulgaria

българска версия

English version

E-009454/13 by Jutta Steinruck to the Commission

Subject: European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Opinion for the Commission on new rules to limit pilots' hours of duty (Flight Time Limitations — FTL)

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009455/13 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Automated surveillance

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009456/13 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Manipulation in the raw materials sector

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009457/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Need for protection of beekeeping

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009458/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Use of the Moschopoulos reservoir project on the island of Corfu

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009460/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Increased concentrations of nitrates in water in villages in Rodopi

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009461/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Consequences for public health, in particular for patients with chronic diseases, of the closure of Western Attica General Hospital ‘Agia Varvara’

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009462/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: State of the environment of Lake Kastoria

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009463/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Increase in unemployment

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009464/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: European citizens living below the poverty threshold

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009465/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Privatisation of water

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009466/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Censorship of the poem ‘Niobe '74’

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009467/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Downward trend of Cyprus's economy

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009468/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Data collection for Eurobarometer

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009469/13 by Mario Borghezio to the Commission

Subject: EU funding for Croatian border controls

Versione italiana

English version

E-009470/13 by Mario Borghezio to the Commission

Subject: EU funding for Croatia under the SOLID programme

Versione italiana

English version

E-009471/13 by Aldo Patriciello to the Commission

Subject: Road accident in Monteforte Irpino and road safety in Europe

Versione italiana

English version

E-009472/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: EU funds inaccessible in Veneto due to malfunctioning of online application registration system

Versione italiana

English version

E-009473/13 by Fabrizio Bertot to the Commission

Subject: Problems arising from the introduction of new banknotes

Versione italiana

English version

E-009474/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Pakistan: abandoned babies offered as prizes in television show

Versione italiana

English version

E-009475/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Cattle die-off caused by botulism poisoning in Trebaseleghe (Padua): possible link to biogas digesters

Versione italiana

English version

E-009476/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Serious and repeated breaches of the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) in Italy: WWF and LIPU report

Versione italiana

English version

E-009477/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: High concentrations of PFAS (perfluoroalkylated substances) in the drinking water of some 30 municipalities in the Veneto Region

Versione italiana

English version

E-009478/13 by Aldo Patriciello to the Commission

Subject: Railway accident in Santiago de Compostela and safety of the European railway system

Versione italiana

English version

E-009495/13 by Silvia-Adriana Ţicău to the Commission

Subject: Improved rail transport safety

Versiunea în limba română

English version

E-009479/13 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission

Subject: Falcognana, Rome — possible opening of a new temporary landfill site‐ may be in breach of EC law

Versione italiana

English version

E-009480/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Commemoration on Monte Grappa of the centenary of the Great War: clarifications

Versione italiana

English version

E-009481/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Declining sales of footwear in Italy

Versione italiana

English version

E-009482/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Dangers posed to designations of origin by new Internet domains in the wine-growing industry

Versione italiana

English version

E-009483/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Threat to consumer health from Chinese rice

Versione italiana

English version

E-009484/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Beef cattle farming: protests by French and Italian stockbreeders

Versione italiana

English version

E-009485/13 by Kartika Tamara Liotard to the Commission

Subject: Authorisation of GMO products of animal origin

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009486/13 by Cornelis de Jong to the Commission

Subject: Adherence to case-law of the Court of Justice concerning air passengers' rights

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009487/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Best practices for more sustainable urban mobility

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009488/13 by Marek Henryk Migalski to the Commission

Subject: Arrest of a Catholic priest in Belarus

Wersja polska

English version

E-009489/13 by Marek Henryk Migalski to the Commission

Subject: Abduction of the daughter of a Belarusian opposition activist

Wersja polska

English version

E-009490/13 by Marek Henryk Migalski to the Commission

Subject: Sentencing of Russian opposition leader

Wersja polska

English version

E-009491/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Support for small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs)

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009492/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Support for natural stone production

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009493/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Support for micro-enterprises in depressed areas

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009494/13 by Inês Cristina Zuber to the Commission

Subject: Application for world heritage status for Alentejan song

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009496/13 by Silvia-Adriana Ţicău to the Commission

Subject: Stage reached in creating the European information and booking interface across transport modes

Versiunea în limba română

English version

E-009497/13 by Paweł Zalewski to the Commission

Subject: Blocking and removal of online profiles and pages of the Turkish opposition by Facebook

Wersja polska

English version

E-009498/13 by Jorgo Chatzimarkakis to the Council

Subject: Teacher layoffs in Greece

Deutsche Fassung

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009499/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Exit of the IMF from the Troika

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009500/13 by Mario Borghezio to the Commission

Subject: Suspending the procedure for Kosovo's accession to the EU

Versione italiana

English version

E-009501/13 by Jill Evans to the Commission

Subject: Plucking feathers from live birds

English version

E-009502/13 by Theodoros Skylakakis to the Commission

Subject: Procedure for recruitment of staff for the new radio and television broadcasting entity in Greece

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009503/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Period of validity of student visas

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009513/13 by Diogo Feio to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Eritrea — update

Versão portuguesa

English version

P-009516/13 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Execution of Afzal Guru

English version

E-009517/13 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Social and economic effects of zero-hours contracts

English version

E-009518/13 by Evelyne Gebhardt to the Commission

Subject: Transposition of the Patient Mobility Directive (2011/24/EU)

Deutsche Fassung

English version

P-009519/13 by Rebecca Taylor to the Commission

Subject: Testing for GM content of all rice products imported from China

English version

E-009520/13 by Evelyne Gebhardt to the Commission

Subject: Elimination of discrimination in the pricing policies of public institutions/undertakings

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009521/13 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: Fines for critical TV stations in Turkey (follow-up question)

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009522/13 by Angelika Niebler to the Commission

Subject: Mandatory labelling for peeled asparagus

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009523/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Abolition of voluntary beef labelling — harmful to European producers and consumers

Versione italiana

English version

E-009524/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Turkish Government intimidations — missile launches against foreign vessels

Versione italiana

English version

E-009525/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Protection of children on the web — parents' permission to open accounts on social networks

Versione italiana

English version

P-009526/13 by Manfred Weber to the Commission

Subject: Police brutality in repression of peaceful protests in Bulgaria

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009527/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Abduction of Orthodox Metropolitans in Syria (2)

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009528/13 by Jill Evans to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Whaling in the Faroe Islands

English version

E-009529/13 by Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou to the Commission

Subject: Construction of a dam near the city of Hasankyef in Turkey, protection of cultural heritage and conduct of European enterprises

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009530/13 by Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou to the Commission

Subject: Impact of fiscal adjustment on the management bodies of protected areas and the protection of these areas

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009531/13 by Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou to the Commission

Subject: European Blue Card and EU competitiveness

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009532/13 by Martina Anderson to the Commission

Subject: Re-domiciled PLCs

English version

E-009533/13 by Martina Anderson to the Commission

Subject: Irish contribution to rebates

English version

E-009540/13 by Monika Hohlmeier to the Commission

Subject: EU funds for Bulgaria

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009541/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: 39 years of Turkish occupation of Famagusta

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009542/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Former CIA agent Edward Snowden's revelations on the British bases in Cyprus

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009543/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Continuing Turkish embargo on Cypriot ships and planes

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009544/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Abduction of Greek and Syrian Orthodox archbishops

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009545/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: British Government selling personal data to the US

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009546/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: US surveillance programme

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009547/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Global trade on the stock exchange

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

P-009548/13 by Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou to the Commission

Subject: IMF recommendations regarding minimum wages in Greece and EU assessment

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009549/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Cost of Muslim immigration to EU citizens

Versione italiana

English version

E-009550/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: ‘Empty prisons’ decree and risks for citizens

Versione italiana

English version

E-009551/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Transposition of Directive 2010/40/EU and use of intelligent transport systems in the Member States

Nederlandse versie

English version

P-009552/13 by Josef Weidenholzer to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Elections in Cambodia

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009553/13 by Jürgen Creutzmann to the Commission

Subject: Competition law — Municipal Code of Rhineland-Palatinate (water and energy supply and local public transport)

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009554/13 by Filip Kaczmarek to the Commission

Subject: Sanctions against Russia

Wersja polska

English version

E-009555/13 by Filip Kaczmarek to the Commission

Subject: Spread of animal diseases at the EU's eastern borders

Wersja polska

English version

P-009556/13 by Sonia Alfano to the Commission

Subject: Fire in a wax factory on 14 July 2013 — health and environmental emergency in the Agro Nolano area of Naples

Versione italiana

English version

P-009557/13 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission

Subject: Possibility of funding for the work of the local police

Versione italiana

English version

E-009558/13 by Philip Claeys to the Commission

Subject: Theft of aid supplies in Somalia and elsewhere

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009559/13 by Philip Claeys to the Commission

Subject: Representation of the OIC to the EU

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009560/13 by Philip Claeys to the Commission

Subject: Participation by Commissioners in the Bilderberg Conference (2)

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009561/13 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: Misuse of development aid by corrupt regimes

Nederlandse versie

English version

P-009562/13 by Biljana Borzan to the Commission

Subject: TEN-T overhaul (Croatia)

Hrvatska verzija

English version

E-009563/13 by Christel Schaldemose to the Commission

Subject: Labelling of all ingredients in medicines

Dansk udgave

English version

E-009564/13 by Paul Rübig to the Commission

Subject: Mobile phone bills: third-party billing fraud

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009565/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Directive 2005/32/EC on ecodesign requirements for energy-using products

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009566/13 by Pavel Poc to the Commission

Subject: Directive on industrial emissions 2010/75/EU (IED) — emission levels associated with the best available techniques

České znění

English version

E-009567/13 by Sophia in 't Veld to the Commission

Subject: Racist statements made by Greek MPs in the Greek Parliament

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009568/13 by Krzysztof Lisek to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — International cooperation between regions involving formal agreements, and settlement of disputes arising from these

Wersja polska

English version

E-009569/13 by Reinhard Bütikofer to the Commission

Subject: Warehousing and industrial activity by traders and financial institutions

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009570/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Progress of the ‘National Registry Office’ project

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009571/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Co-funded land registry projects in Greece

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009572/13 by Patricia van der Kammen to the Commission

Subject: Bankruptcies among European egg producers due to European rules

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009573/13 by Tomasz Piotr Poręba, Ryszard Antoni Legutko and Ryszard Czarnecki to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Political situation in Georgia

Wersja polska

English version

E-009574/13 by Peter van Dalen to the Commission

Subject: Strikes by German lock-keepers

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009575/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Mortgage loans — houseboats

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009576/13 by Tonino Picula to the Commission

Subject: Commission negotiations with CEFTA member countries

Hrvatska verzija

English version

E-009577/13 by Tonino Picula to the Commission

Subject: Protecting indigenous Croatian ‘Prošek’ and ‘Teran’ wines

Hrvatska verzija

English version

E-009578/13 by Bendt Bendtsen to the Commission

Subject: Commission involvement in Italy delaying public payments

Dansk udgave

English version

E-009579/13 by Karl-Heinz Florenz to the Commission

Subject: Amendments to Directive 2008/98/EC on waste and other legislation on waste

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009580/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Derogation from the ban on the aerial spraying of pesticides in the province of Treviso for 2013 — possibly in breach of Directive 2009/128/EC

Versione italiana

English version

E-009581/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: MOSE project — possible breach of EU guidelines on the monitoring of the project and supervision of the measures designed to limit its environmental impact

Versione italiana

English version

E-009582/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Danger for birds due to plan to build a wind farm on Mount Pizzoc in Fregona (TV) along an important bird migration route

Versione italiana

English version

E-009583/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Protection of Asiago PDO cheese — a ‘mountain product’- difficulties with the new Regulation No 1151/2012

Versione italiana

English version

E-009585/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: ‘Mountain products’- difficulties with the new Regulation No 1151/2012

Versione italiana

English version

E-009584/13 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Asiago PDO cheese and lack of protection on the US and Canadian markets

Versione italiana

English version

P-009586/13 by Georgios Koumoutsakos to the Commission

Subject: The Albanian state and the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania: violent incidents and vandalism in Përmet

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

P-009606/13 by Maria Eleni Koppa to the Commission

Subject: Violence directed at the Orthodox community in Albania

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009587/13 by Christel Schaldemose to the Commission

Subject: Refusal of entry to the USA

Dansk udgave

English version

E-009588/13 by Karl-Heinz Florenz to the Commission

Subject: Digital Agenda / abolition of roaming fees, cross-border commercial areas

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009589/13 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Withdrawal limit from banks which fail

Deutsche Fassung

English version

P-009590/13 by Marina Yannakoudakis to the Commission

Subject: EU Waste Framework Directive

English version

E-009591/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Legality of Gibraltar border checks

English version

E-009593/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Zimbabwe elections

English version

E-009594/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Message of congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

English version

E-009595/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Increasing Internet access in the Member States

English version

E-009596/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Implementation of the House of European History project

English version

E-009597/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: EU funding for cancer research

English version

E-009598/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Impact of Directive 2011/82/EU

English version

E-009599/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Follow-up to Written Question E-007401/2013 on sow stall ban

English version

E-009600/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Commemoration of terrorism in Northern Ireland

English version

E-009601/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Impact of the abolition of milk quotas after 2015

English version

E-009602/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Fonterra

English version

E-009603/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Release of 26 Palestinian prisoners

English version

E-009604/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Land Parcel Information Systems (LPIS)

English version

E-009605/13 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Response to the horsemeat scandal

English version

P-009607/13 by Philippe Lamberts to the Commission

Subject: Planned obsolescence and consumer protection

Version française

English version

E-009608/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: ROP Macedonia — Thrace

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009609/13 by Julie Girling to the Commission

Subject: Withholding taxes on EU-funded projects

English version

E-009610/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Elimination of the gender pay gap in the EU

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009611/13 by Biljana Borzan to the Commission

Subject: Landmines in Croatia

Hrvatska verzija

English version

E-009612/13 by Adam Bielan to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Trade relations between Ukraine and Russia

Wersja polska

English version

E-009613/13 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Nuclear power plants — national subsidies and EIB loans

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009614/13 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Flood control by means of flood zones

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009615/13 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Security loophole in SIM cards

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009616/13 by Theodoros Skylakakis to the Commission

Subject: Smuggling of wolf pelts from Athens to Beijing

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

P-009617/13 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Bird flu epidemic of in north-eastern Italy and possible serious non-compliance by the local authorities — call to suspend bird hunting and bird fairs

Versione italiana

English version

E-009618/13 by Oldřich Vlasák to the Commission

Subject: Ban on medicines containing the active substance tetrazepam

České znění

English version

E-009619/13 by Rebecca Harms to the Commission

Subject: EIB funding for the Ptolemaida V lignite power station in Greece

Deutsche Fassung

English version

P-009620/13 by Theodoros Skylakakis to the Commission

Subject: Verification of allegations of the use of chemical weapons in Syria

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009621/13 by Philippe De Backer to the Commission

Subject: Minimum surface areas (square metres) at the workplace

Nederlandse versie

English version

P-009622/13 by Werner Langen to the Commission

Subject: Excise duty on wine in the United Kingdom

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009623/13 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Violation of doctors' working hours and the Commission's response

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009624/13 by Philip Claeys to the Commission

Subject: Subsidy for Europeade

Nederlandse versie

English version

P-009625/13 by Dolores García-Hierro Caraballo to the Commission

Subject: Fishing dispute with Gibraltar

Versión española

English version

P-009626/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Tackling the increase of precarious work in the EU

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009627/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Funding of social policy projects in the EU

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009628/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Use of different poverty indicators by Member States

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009629/13 by Andrea Češková to the Commission

Subject: Rising threats from antimicrobial resistance — separation of the right to prescribe and the right to sell veterinary medicines

České znění

English version

E-009630/13 by Christel Schaldemose to the Commission

Subject: Substances E 153 and E 171, often used as colourings in liquorice, contain nanoparticles

Dansk udgave

English version

E-009631/13 by Niki Tzavela to the Commission

Subject: Electricity link with the Greek islands

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009632/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Reducing the promotion of alcohol in sport (2)

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009633/13 by Julie Girling to the Commission

Subject: Vehicle defects and accidents

English version

E-009634/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Putting an end to LGBT bullying

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009635/13 by Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández to the Commission

Subject: Mr Schulz' opinion on imports

Versión española

English version

E-009636/13 by Josef Weidenholzer to the Commission

Subject: Tracking MAC addresses for advertising purposes

Deutsche Fassung

English version

E-009637/13 by João Ferreira and Inês Cristina Zuber to the Council

Subject: Repression of agrarian activists in Colombia

Versão portuguesa

English version

E-009638/13 by Charles Tannock to the Commission

Subject: Desirability of ending discriminatory pricing policies by utilities

English version

E-009639/13 by Charles Tannock to the Commission

Subject: Future of production within the common agricultural policy

English version

E-009640/13 by Charles Tannock to the Commission

Subject: Impact in the UK of supermarket pricing for milk on the objectives of the common agricultural policy

English version

E-009641/13 by Claudette Abela Baldacchino to the Commission

Subject: Simplifying visa procedures for business and leisure trips

Verżjoni Maltija

English version

E-009642/13 by Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou to the Commission

Subject: International competitiveness of European universities

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009643/13 by Philip Claeys to the Commission

Subject: Violent attacks on eurosceptic party in Germany

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009645/13 by Antigoni Papadopoulou to the Commission

Subject: Further haircut on Greek debt

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009646/13 by Daniël van der Stoep to the Council

Subject: Number of written questions tabled and their cost

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009647/13 by Daniël van der Stoep to the Commission

Subject: Number of written questions tabled and their cost

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009648/13 by Daniël van der Stoep to the Council

Subject: PCE/PEC — Number of written questions tabled and their cost

Nederlandse versie

English version

E-009649/13 by Daniël van der Stoep to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — number of written questions tabled and their cost

Nederlandse versie

English version

P-009650/13 by Sophocles Sophocleous to the Council

Subject: Possible use of British bases in Cyprus for launching airstrikes

Ελληνική έκδοση

English version

E-009651/13 by Carlo Fidanza to the Commission

Subject: Clever-hotels.com platform — insolvency of the German company Navelar GmbH

Versione italiana

English version

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-007293/13

à la Commission

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(20 juin 2013)

Objet: La Hongrie criminalise ses SDF

Les avertissements ont beau se multiplier depuis trois mois, le premier ministre Viktor Orbán fait la sourde oreille. Les critiques portant sur le quatrième remaniement apporté à la Constitution hongroise il y a quelques semaines sont pourtant convergentes: ces nouveaux changements menacent le respect des droits fondamentaux dans ce pays.

Réponse donnée par Mme Reding au nom de la Commission

(27 août 2013)

En vertu des traités sur lesquels se fonde l'Union européenne (1), la Commission n'a pas de compétences générales pour intervenir auprès des États membres en matière de droits fondamentaux. Elle ne peut le faire que lorsqu'il s'agit d'une question relevant du droit de l'Union européenne. La disposition relative aux sans-abri prévue à l'article XXII.3 de la Loi fondamentale hongroise ne semble pas être liée à la mise en œuvre du droit de l'Union européenne. Toutefois, la Commission a souligné dans le train de mesures sur les investissements sociaux (2), notamment dans le document de travail des services de la Commission concernant la lutte contre le problème des sans-abri (3), que les stratégies de criminalisation des sans-abri appliquées par les États membres, par exemple en cas d'utilisation de l'espace public ou d'actes de mendicité, semblent inefficaces, coûteuses et stigmatisantes, et ne permettent pas d'agir sur le contexte social du problème.

La Commission rappelle également que la Commission de Venise du Conseil de l'Europe, dans son avis rendu le 17 juin 2013 (4), a commenté la disposition relative aux sans-abri figurant à l'article XXII.3 de la Loi fondamentale hongroise. Selon le point de vue exprimé par la Commission de Venise dans son avis, les problèmes importants sont l'imprécision des critères ainsi que le niveau de réglementation. L'article XXII.3 de la Loi fondamentale est l'une des dispositions du quatrième amendement contenant des règles détaillées qui sont généralement régies par la loi et qui ne devraient pas figurer dans une Constitution. Selon la Commission de Venise, l'élévation de ces règles au niveau de la Constitution a pour effet d'empêcher un examen par la Cour constitutionnelle.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-007293/13

to the Commission

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(20 June 2013)

Subject: Hungary criminalises the homeless

Despite increasing warnings over the past three months, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has turned a deaf ear. Yet criticisms of the fourth reform to the Hungarian Constitution a few weeks ago arrive at the same conclusion: these new changes are a threat to respect for fundamental rights in this country.

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(27 August 2013)

Under the Treaties on which the European Union is based (5), the Commission has no general powers to intervene with the Member States in the area of fundamental rights. It can only do so if an issue of European Union law is involved. The provision on homelessness enshrined in Article XXII.3 of the Hungarian Fundamental Law, does not appear to be related to the implementation of European Union law. However, the Commission emphasised in the Social Investment Package (6), notably in the Commission Staff Working Document on Confronting Homelessness in the European Union (7), that criminalising approaches towards homeless people by Member States, e.g. for public place use or begging, seem inefficient, costly, stigmatising and fail to address the social context of the problem.

The Commission also recalls that the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe, in its opinion issued on 17 June 2013 (8), commented on the provision on homelessness in Article XXII.3 of the Hungarian Fundamental Law. From the point of view of the Venice Commission in the framework of its Opinion, important issues are the vagueness of the criteria as well as the level of regulation. Article XXII.3 of the Fundamental Law is one of the provisions of the Fourth Amendment that contains detailed rules which are usually regulated by law and should not be part of a Constitution. Raising such provisions to the level of the Constitution has the effect of preventing review by the Constitutional Court, according to the Venice Commission.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009020/13

alla Commissione

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(24 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Esclusione della Regione Veneto dall'utilizzo dei fondi comunitari per la lotta alla disoccupazione giovanile

In occasione del vertice del 27 e 28 giugno, il Consiglio europeo ha stabilito lo stanziamento di 6 miliardi di euro a partire dal 1° gennaio 2014 per combattere la disoccupazione giovanile, secondo le linee guida dell'iniziativa a favore dell'occupazione giovanile (Youth Employment Initiative), e ha inoltre prospettato anche un possibile aumento della somma in questione a 8 miliardi di euro. Tuttavia, secondo quanto stabilito dal Consiglio stesso, solamente le regioni europee colpite da tassi di disoccupazione giovanile superiori al 25 % potranno beneficiare di tali risorse finanziarie.

La Commissione può confermare le informazioni precedentemente esposte, anche per quanto riguarda il fatto che le regioni europee con tassi di disoccupazione giovanile inferiori al 25 % verranno escluse dall'utilizzo dei fondi in questione?

In particolare, conferma che la regione italiana del Veneto, dove il numero di giovani disoccupati è pari a duecentomila, non potrà comunque beneficiare del fondo, in quanto il valore percentuale della disoccupazione giovanile è pari all'8,6 % e quindi inferiore alla soglia minima del 25 % stabilita dal Consiglio europeo?

Risposta di László Andor a nome della Commissione

(13 settembre 2013)

La Commissione conferma che il Consiglio europeo riunitosi a giugno ha stabilito, come condizione di ammissibilità per la concessione di un contributo finanziario nel quadro dell'iniziativa per l'occupazione giovanile (YEI — Youth Employment Initiative), una soglia minima pari al 25 % relativamente al tasso di disoccupazione giovanile regionale tra i giovani di età compresa tra i 15 ed i 24 anni. La Commissione conferma inoltre che il tasso di disoccupazione giovanile nella Regione Veneto è pari al 23,4 % (9) e non sembra quindi soddisfare detto criterio.

I parametri precisi per la YEI sono tuttavia ancora oggetto di discussione da parte del Consiglio e del Parlamento nell'ambito dei triloghi sui regolamenti concernenti il FSE e le norme comuni per i fondi.

La proposta della Commissione consentirebbe inoltre agli Stati membri di consacrare fino al 10 % dei loro stanziamenti a valere sulla YEI ai giovani residenti in sottoregioni in cui la disoccupazione giovanile è elevata e che non rientrano tra le le regioni ammissibili NUTS II. Gli Stati membri possono altresì utilizzare una parte degli stanziamenti complessivi del FSE ad essi destinati per promuovere l'integrazione dei giovani nel mercato del lavoro.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009020/13

to the Commission

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Veneto region of Italy not eligible for EU funding to tackle youth unemployment

At its meeting of 27 and 28 June 2013, the European Council agreed, in line with the Youth Employment Initiative guidelines, that EUR 6 billion should be made available from 1 January 2014 for action to combat youth unemployment. It also held out the possibility of increasing that sum to EUR 8 billion. At the same time, however, it decided that only European regions with youth unemployment rates of more than 25% would be eligible for the funding.

Can the Commission say whether the above information is correct? In particular, will European regions with youth unemployment rates of less than 25% not be eligible?

More specifically, can it confirm that the Veneto region of Italy, where 200 000 young people are without work, will not be eligible for the funding, in view of the fact that the region has a youth unemployment rate of 8.6%, which is below the 25% threshold set by the European Council?

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2013)

The Commission confirms that the June European Council agreed on a regional youth unemployment rate threshold of 25% for the 15-to-24 age group as the condition for eligibility for a financial contribution under the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI). The Commission also confirms that the Veneto Region has a youth unemployment rate of 23.4% (10), and therefore would not meet this criterion.

However, the precise parameters for the YEI are still being discussed by Council and Parliament in the context of ongoing trilogues on ESF and CPR regulations.

Furthermore, the Commission proposal would allow the Member States to use up to 10% of their YEI allocations for young persons residing in sub-regions where youth unemployment is high and which fall outside eligible NUTS 2 regions. The Member States can also use part of their overall ESF allocations to promote young people’s integration into the labour market.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009021/13

alla Commissione

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(24 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Stanziamento di 1,5 miliardi di euro per l'Italia per combattere la disoccupazione giovanile

Con il vertice del 27-28 giugno, il Consiglio europeo ha stabilito lo stanziamento di 6 miliardi di euro a partire dal primo gennaio 2014 per combattere la disoccupazione giovanile, secondo le linee guida dell'Iniziativa a favore dell'occupazione giovanile. Il Consiglio ha inoltre prospettato un possibile aumento della somma in questione a 8 miliardi di euro.

Può la Commissione confermare quanto segue:

Risposta di László Andor a nome della Commissione

(5 settembre 2013)

1.-2. Sulla base delle conclusioni del Consiglio europeo del 7-8 febbraio 2013, la Commissione ha adottato una proposta (11) al fine di attuare un'iniziativa per l'occupazione giovanile (YEI — Youth Employment Initiative), che è attualmente in discussione in sede di Parlamento e di Consiglio. Sulla base della proposta della Commissione e dei criteri di ammissibilità in essa previsti, all'Italia sarebbero destinati circa 530 milioni di EUR. A norma dell’articolo 15, vii, della proposta, il sostegno del Fondo sociale europeo (FSE) è almeno pari al sostegno da parte della dotazione specifica della YEI nelle regioni ammissibili.

settembre 2013 e la possibilità di adottare programmi operativi YEI specifici prima della presentazione dell'accordo di partenariato.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009021/13

to the Commission

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: EUR 1.5 billion in funding to Italy to combat youth unemployment

In its summit of 27-28 June, the European Council agreed to allocate EUR 6 billion, from

1 January 2014, in order to combat youth unemployment, according to the guidelines of the Youth Employment Initiative. The Council also suggested that the sum might possibly be increased to EUR 8 billion.

Can the Commission confirm the following:

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

1 & 2. On the basis of the European Council Conclusions of 7-8 February 2013, the Commission adopted a proposal (12) in order to implement a Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) which is currently being discussed by Parliament and Council. On the basis of the Commission proposal and the eligibility criteria set therein, around EUR 530 million would be earmarked for Italy. According to Article 15 vii of the proposal, the European Social Fund (ESF) shall at least match the support from the specific allocation for the YEI in the eligible regions.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009023/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Subsidising agricultural production

Can the Commission detail which countries outside the European Union presently subsidise agricultural production, and clarify the nature of the subsidies concerned?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

The Commission does not collect detailed information about subsidies to agricultural production outside the European Union. Available international data shows that every country manages a food and agriculture policy that covers a combination of different instruments as incentives for the farmers to best respond to the demand for food and public goods that agriculture provides.

In the World Trade Organisation, which requires its members to notify granted domestic support to agriculture, about 40% of non-EU countries indicated some sort of product-specific or non-product-specific support as part of Aggregate Measurement of Support (AMS), usually lower than the subsidies provided through Green box, non-trade-distorting measures. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, in its recent Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation reports, showed that the support based on commodity outputs in OECD countries has been steadily decreasing and represented about 44% of total Producer Support Estimate (PSE), mostly attributed to Market Price Support. In Emerging Economies (Brazil, China, Russia, Ukraine, South Africa) the support based on commodity outputs as a share of PSE ranged from about 20% in South Africa to about 60% in China and Russia.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009024/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Fall in diabetes deaths

According to the results of a study published recently in Diabetologia, a medical journal, the likelihood of dying of people diagnosed with diabetes relative to those who do not suffer from the disease has decreased since the mid-1990s. However, it is still estimated that hundreds of patients will die prematurely in the United Kingdom as a result of diabetes every year.

In this context, can the Commission respond to the following queries:

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(2 September 2013)

The Commission is keen to help address diabetes within its competencies. The Commission addresses the prevention of diabetes type II, by taking action on known risk factors such as nutrition and lack of physical activity, where the Commission has put in place a comprehensive strategy (13).

In addition, the Commission has supported a number of projects on the prevention, the diagnosis and other aspects of diabetes (14) through the Health programme.To further support the development of prevention and early diagnosis of diabetes type II, a joint action on chronic diseases has been developed between Member States and the Commission, which will be co-financed by the health programme. One part of the joint action is devoted to diabetes type II, to study barriers to prevention, screening and treatment of diabetes and to improve cooperation among Member States to act on diabetes.

The Commission further collects and provides data on causes of death at EU level by disease, age groups, gender and regional level (15) according to the International Classification of Diseases. In 2010, 106,398 Europeans died of Diabetes mellitus compared to 104,751 in 2006. In the United Kingdom, the figure of 6,439 deaths due to Diabetes mellitus in 2006 dropped slightly to 6,180 in 2010. This data is presented in annex per Member State and by age groups.

The prevention, as well as the provision of early diagnosis and care to people suffering from diabetes, is a health system management issue which falls under the responsibility of Member States.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009025/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Criminal convictions of trafficked persons

Three Vietnamese children who had been trafficked into the United Kingdom recently had their convictions for drug crimes carried out at the behest of their captors quashed by the Court of Appeal.

In this context, can the Commission detail what provisions exist at EU level to ensure that victims of human trafficking in the Member States are not held responsible for crimes committed while under duress?

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(26 August 2013)

Addressing trafficking in human has been a priority area for the EU and its Member States for several years. This resulted in 2011 in the adoption by the Council and the European Parliament of Directive 2011/36/EU on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings and protecting its victims, with the transposition date of 6 April 2013. Article 8 of this directive provides for the Member States, in accordance with the basic principles of their legal systems, that competent national authorities are entitled not to prosecute or impose penalties on victims of trafficking in human beings for their involvement in criminal activities which they have been compelled to commit as a direct consequence of being subject to human trafficking. The aim of this such protection is to safeguard the human rights of victims, to avoid further victimisation and to encourage them to act as witnesses in criminal proceedings against the perpetrators.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009026/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Testing of lintels

Currently, under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), lintels must be tested in line with harmonised EU standard EN 845-2:2003.

Can the Commission state whether there any plans to introduce, in the coming months, changes to this standard — and to the requirements set out therein — that could impact on manufacturers across the EU?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(29 August 2013)

According to the Construction Products Regulation (305/2011/EU; the CPR), the assessment (test) methods to be applied for the performance of construction products covered by harmonised standards are to be found in these standards.

Article 27(3) of the CPR also allows for the European standardisation bodies to establish threshold levels for such performance. However, in this context it should be noted that this provision foresees a given procedure to be followed in these situations, comprising the involvement of the Commission and the Standing Committee of the CPR.

By now, the Commission has not received any information from the European standardisation bodies, indicating any needs to launch such procedures, related to either this harmonised standard or any other standards.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009027/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: European Alliance for Apprenticeships

The European Alliance for Apprenticeships was launched earlier this month at the 2013 WorldSkills competition in Leipzig. It is a joint initiative by the European Commissioners for Education and Youth and for Employment, and it aims to tackle youth unemployment by improving capacity for apprenticeships across the EU.

In this context, can the Commission respond to the following questions;

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(20 September 2013)

The European Alliance for Apprenticeships brings together key stakeholders, including public authorities, businesses, social partners, chambers, VET (16) providers and youth organisations to strengthen the quality, supply and image of apprenticeships. The aims are to: (1) facilitate knowledge transfer and modernisation of apprenticeship systems; (2) promote the benefits of apprenticeships; and (3) make best use of EU funding and resources.

Although the Commission does not have detailed figures for the past five years, a report (17) shows that in 2009 approximately 3.7 million pupils in secondary education followed apprenticeships in a strict sense, while another 5.7 million students attended other apprenticeship-type schemes, mainly school-based VET training with some work-based training in companies (EU-27). The report also shows that the economic crisis led to an increased interest in VET studies, even as the number of apprenticeship places on offer in companies has decreased in Europe.

With youth unemployment rates at unacceptable levels, boosting apprenticeship supply, quality and reputation is of major importance. Success depends on the active engagement of stakeholders. Member States play an important role since education and training policies and reform are national responsibilities. Partnerships at the national, regional and bilateral level are encouraged. The Commission will steer the Alliance, monitor and report on developments, and facilitate peer learning, cooperation and information sharing.

In addition, a European Social Fund Technical Assistance Support Programme for the establishment of apprenticeship and traineeship schemes (18) provides strategic, operational and policy advice to Member States.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009028/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Number of skin cancer cases

According to research carried out by the Cancer Focus charity, 3 300 people develop skin cancer every year in my constituency, Northern Ireland. Cases of the most serious forms of the disease have more than doubled in the past twenty years.

In this context, can the Commission respond to the following queries:

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

Under the 6th Framework Programme for Research, GenoMEL (Melanoma Genetics Consortium) created collaboration between melanoma researchers in the EU, identified several genes associated with greater melanoma risk and engaged in outreach and education (23). The project EUROSKIN (European network of skin cancer prevention) focused on primary prevention in children, on European certification standard for solaria, on epidermal stem cells and carcinoma and on screening.

Under the Health Programme, the project EUROSUN (Measuring the exposure of individuals and populations in Europe to UV radiation by using the data of meteorological satellites) (24) further developed prevention messages adapted to each Member State, and an atlas of UV irradiation. In addition, the EPIDERM project (European Prevention Initiative for Dermatological Malignancies) (25), covered skin cancer occurrence, risk factors, treatments and costs.

‘Care must be taken to avoid excessive sun exposure. It is specifically important to protect children and adolescents. For individuals who have a tendency to burn in the sun, active protective measures must be taken throughout life’.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009029/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Murder of women

According to research conducted by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine which examined over 500 000 deaths across 66 countries, women are six times more likely to be murdered by a partner than men.

In this context, can the Commission respond to the following questions:

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(6 September 2013)

The Commission's full commitment to ending violence against women (VAW), including domestic violence, is seen particularly in the Women's Charter, the strategy for equality between women and men (2010-2015)  (26), the ‘victims' package’ and the work on the European Protection Order. Adoption of legislative measures when appropriate, fighting against discrimination and empowering women, improving knowledge and data collection, exchanging good practices, as well as raising awareness and funding are Commission's main priorities in order to prevent violence against women, protect victims and punish perpetrators.

The directive 2012/29/EU (27) will reinforce the assistance to victims by ensuring that women victims of violence benefit from common minimum standards of procedural rights during criminal proceedings, through a whole range of measures, including training to practitioners and support services. Moreover, the regulation no. 606/2013 on the mutual recognition of civil law protection measures (28) complements the directive on the European protection order (29) to ensure that victims of (in particular domestic) violence can still rely on restraint or protection orders issued against the perpetrator in their home country if they travel or move to another Member State.

There are no official and comparable data available at EU-level on VAW. In order to increase knowledge about the prevalence of this phenomenon, the Commission is exploring possibilities to exploit current Eurostat surveys and actively participates in the work of the Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) and the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE)  (30).

In the first quarter of 2014, the FRA's survey on women's experiences of violence (31) will publish comparable figures on VAW.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009031/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Persecution of Christians in Sudan

In April 2013, Sudan’s Minister of Guidance and Endowments, Mr Al-Fatih Taj El-sir, prohibited the issuance of licences for the building of new churches, claiming that since the secession of South Sudan worship had declined and more and more churches had been abandoned.

In this context, can the Commission respond to the following questions:

Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Ashton on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2013)

The HR/VP is deeply concerned about the situation of fundamental rights in Sudan, including increasing restrictions of the freedom of religion. The HR/VP has drawn attention to the difficult human rights situation in Sudan in a number of public statements that have been disseminated locally and internationally, and the EU refers to human rights in all public messages concerning Sudan. The protection of fundamental rights is also addressed regularly in contacts between EU representatives, in particular the EU Special Representative for Sudan and South Sudan and the EU Delegation, with the Government of Sudan. Finally, the EU provides support to the promotion of human rights in Sudan through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights.

Since the beginning of 2013, against the background of increasing reports of harassment and discrimination against religious minorities in Sudan, in particular against Christian communities, learning centres and representatives, the EU has put a specific focus on the protection of the freedom of religion. In addition to silent diplomacy efforts in concrete cases, the EU has brought up the issue in several formal fora, including in the regular dialogue between EU Human Rights Counsellors and the Advisory Council on Human Rights (Ministry of Justice), as well as in the International Partners Forum on Human Rights (open to all diplomatic missions in Sudan, co-chaired by the EU and Canada). The latter meeting was particularly valuable in that it gave an opportunity to several African and Asian countries whose clerics and teachers in Christian schools are among the most concerned by non-renewal of residence permits, to publicly raise their concerns.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009032/13

to the Commission

Diane Dodds (NI)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Child obesity

According to statistics compiled by doctors at Imperial College London, the number of children admitted to hospital due to obesity-related conditions has seen a fourfold increase in the past 10 years.

In this context, can the Commission respond to the following queries:

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

The European Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-007019/2013 (32).

In addition, the Commission's proposal for the 2014-2020 Health Programme (33) foresees activities on obesity and nutrition. It is currently not possible to foresee how much funding will be used on childhood obesity, as the proposals are still under discussion and the annual work plans and the indicative budgets have therefore not yet been developed.

The Commission's proposal for Horizon 2020 — The framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020) (34) will likely offer opportunities for research on obesity, nutrition and physical activity, among others, through the Societal Challenges ‘Health, Demographic Change and Well-being’ and ‘Food security, sustainable agriculture, marine and maritime research and the bio-economy’.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009033/13

to the Commission

Marina Yannakoudakis (ECR)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Treatments for children with cancer

Cancer is the biggest killer disease among children. Unless new treatments are introduced, children will continue to die.

The five-year report of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to the Commission on the application of the Paediatric Regulation, dated 8 July 2012 highlighted the need for change with regard to the process for granting class waivers. However, this was not included in the subsequent report on ‘Better Medicines for Children’ (COM(2013)0443) from the Commission to Parliament, dated 24 June 2013.

‘to recommend medicines development in paediatric conditions with unmet needs’?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(12 September 2013)

The conditions for granting class waivers are provided in Article 11 of Regulation (EC) No 1901/2006 (35). One of the three possible grounds to grant a waiver is evidence that the disease or condition for which the specific medicinal product or class is intended occurs only in adult populations.

Any decision by the EMA to grant new waivers or to modify or revoke granted waivers has to respect the grounds provided by Article 11.

The Commission's report on ‘Better Medicines for children’ acknowledges that criticism has been voiced as regards the impact of the regulation in the field of paediatric oncology. (36) However, at the same time around 10% of submitted paediatric investigation plans cover the therapeutic area of oncology.

Furthermore, given that all paediatric cancers are rare diseases, the Orphan Regulation (37) provides additional incentives to develop specific medicines for children with cancer.

The Seventh Framework Programme for Research (38) has funded research on childhood cancers to an amount of EUR 94 million, including risk factors, drug development and novel therapeutic strategies (e.g. off-patent medicines for paediatric cancer indications). Enhanced coordination efforts are developed through initiatives, such as ENCCA (39) (European Network for Cancer Research in Children and Adolescents), IRDiRC (40) (International Rare Diseases Research Consortium), and the creation of a pilot network of cooperation between paediatric oncology centres (41). The Commission's proposal for Horizon 2020 — The framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020) (42) will offer opportunities to address research on childhood cancer.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009034/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Marina Yannakoudakis (ECR)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Attacks on LGBTI organisations and defenders in Cameroon

The latest occurrence in a spate of attacks in Cameroon against LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex) organisations and defenders in Cameroon is the brutal murder of the prominent LGBTI rights activist and journalist Eric Lembembe earlier this month. In June 2013 an arson attack targeted Alternatives-Cameroun, the oldest LGBTI organisation in the country. Michel Togué, a lawyer who has taken on several high-profile cases defending women and men charged under Cameroon’s anti-gay laws, has also been targeted, as has the Réseau des Défenseurs des Droits Humains en Afrique Centrale (Central Africa Human Rights Defenders Network). This follows on from death threats and violence against the lawyer Alice Nkom for defending people accused of gay-related offences — as mentioned in the resolution of Parliament which I co-sponsored on violence against lesbians and the rights of LGBTI persons in Africa (2012/2701(RSP)).

Answer given by High-Representative/Vice-President Ashton on behalf of the Commission

(6 September 2013)

At the same time the EU prefers to stay engaged with Cameroon, having a better leverage with its ongoing cooperation, where the EU strongly advocates, in the framework of Article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement, further progress on human rights, including those of LGBTI persons, such as decriminalisation of sexual activity between consenting adults of the same sex.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009036/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Energías renovables en el Estado español IV

En referencia al «Tercer Paquete de la Energía» (del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, julio de 2009), la Directiva 2004/8/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, la Directiva 2009/28/CE, la Directiva 2012/27/UE y la «Estrategia Europa 2020», se ve con preocupación la actual situación de parálisis del sector de energías renovables y cogeneración en el Estado español, por las últimas reformas del sector eléctrico (principalmente los RD‐L 1/2012, RD‐L 13/2012, RD‐L 9/2013), la inseguridad jurídica que suponen las medidas retroactivas que afectan a la retribución de las instalaciones de energías renovables en funcionamiento y la pérdida de competitividad de la economía debido al incremento constante del precio de la energía, tanto para los ciudadanos como para la industria. En el Estado español se sufre una falta de claridad legislativa desde 2011, cuando se aprueba el Real Decreto 1699/2011 que, si bien regula la conexión a la red eléctrica de producción de energía eléctrica de pequeña potencia, deja pendiente (hasta un máximo de cuatro meses según el mismo RD) la elaboración de la regulación del suministro de energía eléctrica producida en el interior de la red de un consumidor para su propio consumo, modalidad que llamamos «autoconsumo». No disponer de la regulación de las condiciones administrativas y económicas llevaría al incumplimiento de las Directivas antes referidas, pondría en riesgo el logro de los objetivos de penetración de energías renovables y reducción de emisiones de CO2, lastraría la necesaria competitividad de la economía del Estado y el consumo de las familias y tendría un impacto muy negativo en las empresas y la industria del sector.

Hay consumidores que han decidido proveerse de vías alternativas, renunciando así a estar conectados a la red convencional. ¿Cree la Comisión que contradice alguna normativa europea el hecho de que exista una normativa española que obligue a los consumidores a estar conectados a la red eléctrica o de gas convencional?

¿No cree la Comisión que, para fomentar el ahorro energético a partir del autoconsumo eléctrico, sería conveniente que se fomentase el funcionamiento en isla, sin conexión directa a la red eléctrica convencional, disponiendo, eso sí, de una conexión de emergencia a la red convencional?

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009037/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Energías renovables en el Estado español

En referencia al «Tercer Paquete de la Energía» (Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, julio 2009), a la Directiva 2004/8/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo (febrero 2004), la Directiva 2009/28/CE (abril 2009), la Directiva 2012/27/UE (octubre 2012) y la «Estrategia Europea 2020», se ve con preocupación la actual situación de parálisis del sector de energías renovables y cogeneración en el Estado español, a raíz de las últimas reformas del sector eléctrico (principalmente el RD-L 1/2012, RD-L 13/2012, RD-L 9/2013), la inseguridad jurídica que suponen las medidas retroactivas que afectan a la retribución de las instalaciones de energías renovables en funcionamiento y la pérdida de competitividad de la economía debido al incremento constante del precio de la energía, tanto para los ciudadanos como para la industria.

Es preocupante la deriva legislativa sobre un aspecto clave de la política energética europea: el autoconsumo de energía. En el Estado español se sufre una falta de claridad legislativa desde 2011, cuando se aprueba el Real Decreto 1699/2011, de 18 de noviembre de 2011, que, si bien regula la conexión a la red eléctrica de producción de energía eléctrica de pequeña potencia, deja pendiente (hasta un máximo de cuatro meses según el mismo RD) la elaboración de la regulación del suministro de energía eléctrica producida en el interior de la red de un consumidor para su propio consumo, modalidad que llamamos «autoconsumo». No disponer de la regulación de las condiciones administrativas y económicas llevaría al incumplimiento de las Directivas antes referidas, pondría en riesgo el logro de los objetivos de penetración de energías renovables y reducción de emisiones de CO2, lastraría la necesaria competitividad de la economía del Estado y el consumo de las familias y tendría un impacto muy negativo en las empresas e industria del sector.

¿Cree la Comisión que el hecho de aumentar el término de potencia de la factura eléctrica (fijo, independientemente del consumo) y a la vez reducir el término de energía (variable, en función del consumo) fomentaría el ahorro y la eficiencia energética?

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009040/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Energías renovables en el Estado español

En referencia al «Tercer Paquete de la Energía» (Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, julio 2009), a la Directiva 2004/8/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo (febrero 2004), la Directiva 2009/28/CE (abril 2009), la Directiva 2012/27/UE (octubre 2012) y la «Estrategia Europea 2020», se ve con preocupación la actual situación de parálisis del sector de energías renovables y cogeneración en el Estado español, a raíz de las últimas reformas del sector eléctrico (principalmente el RD-L 1/2012, RD-L 13/2012, RD-L 9/2013), la inseguridad jurídica que suponen las medidas retroactivas que afectan a la retribución de las instalaciones de energías renovables en funcionamiento, la pérdida de puestos de trabajo vinculados a la industria relacionada con las energías limpias y la pérdida de competitividad de la economía debido al incremento constante del precio de la energía, tanto para los ciudadanos como para la industria.

Es preocupante la deriva legislativa sobre un aspecto clave de la política energética europea: el autoconsumo de energía. En el Estado español se sufre una falta de claridad legislativa desde 2011, cuando se aprueba el Real Decreto 1699/2011, de 18 de noviembre de 2011, que, si bien regula la conexión a la red eléctrica de producción de energía eléctrica de pequeña potencia, deja pendiente (hasta un máximo de cuatro meses según el mismo RD) la elaboración de la regulación del suministro de energía eléctrica producida en el interior de la red de un consumidor para su propio consumo, modalidad que llamamos «autoconsumo». No disponer de la regulación de las condiciones administrativas y económicas llevaría al incumplimiento de las Directivas antes referidas, pondría en riesgo el logro de los objetivos de penetración de energías renovables y reducción de emisiones de CO2, lastraría la necesaria competitividad de la economía del Estado y el consumo de las familias y tendría un impacto muy negativo en las empresas e industria del sector.

¿Cree la Comisión que se contradice alguna normativa europea el hecho que un Estado miembro no esté regulando el «autoconsumo» eléctrico?

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009042/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Energías renovables en el Estado español

En referencia al «Tercer Paquete de la Energía» (Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, julio 2009), a la Directiva 2004/8/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo (febrero 2004), la Directiva 2009/28/CE (abril 2009), la Directiva 2012/27/UE (octubre 2012) y la «Estrategia Europea 2020», se ve con preocupación la actual situación de parálisis del sector de energías renovables y cogeneración en el Estado español, a raíz de las últimas reformas del sector eléctrico (principalmente el RD-L 1/2012, RD-L 13/2012, RD-L 9/2013), la inseguridad jurídica que suponen las medidas retroactivas que afectan a la retribución de las instalaciones de energías renovables en funcionamiento, la pérdida de puestos de trabajo vinculados a la industria relacionada con las energías limpias y la pérdida de competitividad de la economía debido al incremento constante del precio de la energía, tanto para los ciudadanos como para la industria.

Es preocupante la deriva legislativa sobre un aspecto clave de la política energética europea: el autoconsumo de energía. En el Estado español se sufre una falta de claridad legislativa desde 2011, cuando se aprueba el Real Decreto 1699/2011, de 18 de noviembre de 2011, que, si bien regula la conexión a la red eléctrica de producción de energía eléctrica de pequeña potencia, deja pendiente (hasta un máximo de cuatro meses según el mismo RD) la elaboración de la regulación del suministro de energía eléctrica producida en el interior de la red de un consumidor para su propio consumo, modalidad que llamamos «autoconsumo». No disponer de la regulación de las condiciones administrativas y económicas llevaría al incumplimiento de las Directivas antes referidas, pondría en riesgo el logro de los objetivos de penetración de energías renovables y reducción de emisiones de CO2, lastraría la necesaria competitividad de la economía del Estado y el consumo de las familias y tendría un impacto muy negativo en las empresas e industria del sector.

¿Cree la Comisión que contradice alguna normativa europea el hecho que se pongan peajes a las instalaciones de «autoconsumo» eléctrico, aunque esta instalación disponga de elementos que impidan evacuar a la red eléctrica los excedentes que pueda haber, como cortafuegos para no afectar a la red eléctrica?

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009044/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Energías renovables en el Estado español

En referencia al «Tercer Paquete de la Energía» (Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, julio 2009), a la Directiva 2004/8/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo (febrero 2004), la Directiva 2009/28/CE (abril 2009), la Directiva 2012/27/UE (octubre 2012) y la «Estrategia Europea 2020», se ve con preocupación la actual situación de parálisis del sector de energías renovables y cogeneración en el Estado español, a raíz de las últimas reformas del sector eléctrico (principalmente el RD-L 1/2012, RD-L 13/2012, RD-L 9/2013), la inseguridad jurídica que suponen las medidas retroactivas que afectan a la retribución de las instalaciones de energías renovables en funcionamiento, la pérdida de puestos de trabajo vinculados a la industria relacionada con las energías limpias y la pérdida de competitividad de la economía debido al incremento constante del precio de la energía, tanto para los ciudadanos como para la industria.

Es preocupante la deriva legislativa sobre un aspecto clave de la política energética europea: el autoconsumo de energía. En el Estado español se sufre una falta de claridad legislativa desde 2011, cuando se aprueba el Real Decreto 1699/2011, de 18 de noviembre de 2011, que, si bien regula la conexión a la red eléctrica de producción de energía eléctrica de pequeña potencia, deja pendiente (hasta un máximo de cuatro meses según el mismo RD) la elaboración de la regulación del suministro de energía eléctrica producida en el interior de la red de un consumidor para su propio consumo, modalidad que llamamos «autoconsumo». No disponer de la regulación de las condiciones administrativas y económicas llevaría al incumplimiento de las Directivas antes referidas, pondría en riesgo el logro de los objetivos de penetración de energías renovables y reducción de emisiones de CO2, lastraría la necesaria competitividad de la economía del Estado y el consumo de las familias y tendría un impacto muy negativo en las empresas e industria del sector.

¿Cree la Comisión que el sistema eléctrico español, que el invierno pasado tuvo que parar la construcción de parques eólicos y el 20 % de la generación eléctrica generada en centrales nucleares, no necesita sistemas de control de curva de demanda, como, por ejemplo, sistemas de almacenaje de electricidad doméstica para utilizar en «horas valle»?

Respuesta conjunta del Sr. Oettinger en nombre de la Comisión

(11 de octubre de 2013)

La Comisión remite a Su Señoría a la respuesta dada a la pregunta escrita E-009038/2013.

Si bien la Comisión se encuentra actualmente analizando la compatibilidad de las reformas en el sector de la energía español con el Derecho de la UE, comprendemos la preocupación manifestada por Su Señoría en cuanto a las posibles repercusiones negativas de una serie de medidas presentadas sobre las inversiones en energías renovables y eficiencia energética en España.

Como destacó recientemente la Comisión en su Comunicación sobre el mercado interior de la energía (44), la respuesta a la demanda, tan importante como la eficiencia energética, es una herramienta útil para influir sobre la curva de demanda de electricidad mediante la modulación de la demanda de energía en función de la situación del mercado, evitando de este modo picos de demanda costosos. La participación activa de los consumidores es necesaria para que los programas de respuesta a la demanda tengan éxito y podría permitir a los consumidores ahorrar dinero a la vez que aumentaría la eficacia y estabilidad del sistema eléctrico. Estos efectos positivos pueden verse realmente más reforzados si las medidas de respuesta a la demanda integran el uso del almacenamiento de energía.

La legislación de la UE sobre eficiencia energética (45) exige que la facturación de energía realizada por los distribuidores de energía, operadores de sistemas de distribución y empresas minoristas de venta de energía se base en el consumo real de energía, siempre y cuando esto sea técnicamente posible y se pueda justificar desde el punto de vista económico. Esta circunstancia no excluye la posibilidad de que las empresas de energía introduzcan determinados importes fijos, por ejemplo para reflejar los costes de mantenimiento de la conexión a la red de los usuarios finales. No obstante, esto se aplica a todos los usuarios finales, no únicamente a aquellos con un bajo consumo.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009036/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 July 2013)

Subject: Renewable energy in Spain

Following the publication of the third energy package (of the European Parliament and of the Council, July 2009), Directive 2004/8/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directive 2009/28/EC, Directive 2012/27/EU and the Europe 2020 strategy, the current deadlock in Spain's renewable energy and cogeneration sector is a cause for concern. The paralysis is the result of the latest electricity sector reforms (primarily RD‐L 1/2012, RD‐L 13/2012 and RD‐L 9/2013), the legal uncertainty generated by retroactive measures affecting reimbursements for existing renewable energy installations, and a loss of competitiveness resulting from ever-increasing energy bills both for individuals and for industry. The law has been unclear in Spain since 2011, when Royal Decree 1699/2011 was approved. Although the decree regulates the connection to the grid of small‐scale electricity producers, the matter of drawing up rules to govern the use of electricity produced on the grid by individuals for their own consumption, known as ‘self-supply’, is still unresolved (even though the decree says it should have been done within four months). Failing to draw up rules governing the administrative and economic requirements would lead to breaches of the aforementioned directives, undermine Spain’s chances of meeting its renewable energy quotas and CO2 emissions reductions objectives, hinder the country’s competitiveness, put a strain on household energy consumption, and have serious repercussions for businesses and industry in the sector.

Some consumers have opted for alternative means of energy supply, which do not require them to be connected to the standard grid. In the Commission’s view, does the fact that Spain requires consumers to be connected to the standard electricity grid or gas network run counter to EC law?

With a view to saving energy, does it not agree that people should be encouraged to produce electricity via the self-supply method without the need for a direct connection (only an emergency one) to the standard electricity grid?

Question for written answer E-009037/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Bearing in mind the third energy package (European Council and Parliament, July 2009), Directive 2004/8/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (February 2004), Directive 2009/28/EC (April 2009), Directive 2012/27/EU (October 2012) and the Europe 2020 strategy, it is extremely worrying to note the current state of paralysis in the Spanish renewable energy and cogeneration sector following recent reforms to the electricity sector (notably royal decree-laws 1/2012, 13/2012 and 9/2013), the legal uncertainty caused by retroactive measures affecting payments to functioning renewable energy facilities and the loss in competitiveness of the economy due to constant increases in energy prices both for the public and the industry.

It is worrying to note this legislative drift on such a key aspect of European energy policy as own consumption of energy. There has been a lack of legal clarity in Spain since 2011, when Royal Decree 1699/2011, of 18 November 2011, was passed. Although this law regulates connection to small-scale electric energy production grids, it leaves unresolved (for a period of up to four months, according to the decree itself) the drafting of rules on the supply of electricity produced by a consumer's grid for their own use, which is known as own consumption. Without any regulation of the administrative and economic terms, the abovementioned directives are likely to be infringed, it will become difficult to achieve the goals of increasing renewable energy supply and reducing CO2 emissions, families’ domestic consumption and the necessary competitiveness of the national economy will be adversely affected and the impact on businesses and industries in the sector will be very harsh.

Does the Commission consider that increasing power charges (which are fixed, regardless of consumption) while at the same time reducing energy charges (which vary according to consumption) is likely to encourage energy saving and efficiency?

Question for written answer E-009040/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Bearing in mind the third energy package (European Council and Parliament, July 2009), Directive 2004/8/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (February 2004), Directive 2009/28/EC (April 2009), Directive 2012/27/EU (October 2012) and the Europe 2020 strategy, it is extremely worrying to note the current state of paralysis in the Spanish renewable energy and cogeneration sector following recent reforms to the electricity sector (notably royal decree-laws 1/2012, 13/2012 and 9/2013), the legal uncertainty caused by retroactive measures affecting payments to functioning renewable energy facilities, the loss of jobs linked to clean energy production and the decreasing competitiveness of the economy due to constant rises in energy prices for both the public and the industry.

It is worrying to note this legislative drift on such a key aspect of European energy policy as own consumption of energy. There has been a lack of legal clarity in Spain since 2011, when Royal Decree 1699/2011, of 18 November 2011, was passed. Although this law regulates connection to small-scale electric energy production grids, it leaves unresolved (for a period of up to four months, according to the decree itself) the drafting of rules on the supply of electricity produced by a consumer's grid for their own use, which is known as own consumption. Without any regulation of the administrative and economic terms, the abovementioned directives are likely to be infringed, it will become difficult to achieve the goals of increasing renewable energy supply and reducing CO2 emissions, families’ domestic consumption and the necessary competitiveness of the national economy will be adversely affected and the impact on businesses and industries in the sector will be very harsh.

Does the Commission consider it to be an infringement of European law for a Member State to fail to regulate own consumption of electricity?

Question for written answer E-009042/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Bearing in mind the third energy package (European Council and Parliament, July 2009), Directive 2004/8/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (February 2004), Directive 2009/28/EC (April 2009), Directive 2012/27/EU (October 2012) and the Europe 2020 strategy, it is extremely worrying to note the current state of paralysis in the Spanish renewable energy and cogeneration sector following recent reforms to the electricity sector (notably royal decree-laws 1/2012, 13/2012 and 9/2013), the legal uncertainty caused by retroactive measures affecting payments to functioning renewable energy facilities, the loss of jobs linked to clean energy production and the decreasing competitiveness of the economy due to constant rises in energy prices for both the public and the industry.

It is worrying to note this legislative drift on such a key aspect of European energy policy as own consumption of energy. There has been a lack of legal clarity in Spain since 2011, when Royal Decree 1699/2011, of 18 November 2011, was passed. Although this law regulates connection to small-scale electric energy production grids, it leaves unresolved (for a period of up to four months, according to the decree itself) the drafting of rules on the supply of electricity produced by a consumer's grid for their own use, which is known as own consumption. Without any regulation of the administrative and economic terms, the abovementioned directives are likely to be infringed, it will become difficult to achieve the goals of increasing renewable energy supply and reducing CO2 emissions, families’ domestic consumption and the necessary competitiveness of the national economy will be adversely affected and the impact on businesses and industries in the sector will be very harsh.

Does the Commission consider that any European law is being infringed by the levying of charges on electricity generating plants destined for own consumption, even when such installations are equipped with firebreak devices to prevent any excess energy being fed into the national grid, to ensure that it is not affected?

Question for written answer E-009044/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Bearing in mind the third energy package (European Council and Parliament, July 2009), Directive 2004/8/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (February 2004), Directive 2009/28/EC (April 2009), Directive 2012/27/EU (October 2012) and the Europe 2020 strategy, it is extremely worrying to note the current state of paralysis in the Spanish renewable energy and cogeneration sector following recent reforms to the electricity sector (notably royal decree-laws 1/2012, 13/2012 and 9/2013), the legal uncertainty caused by retroactive measures affecting payments to functioning renewable energy facilities, the loss of jobs linked to clean energy production and the decreasing competitiveness of the economy due to constant rises in energy prices for both the public and the industry.

It is worrying to note this legislative drift on such a key aspect of European energy policy as own consumption of energy. There has been a lack of legal clarity in Spain since 2011, when Royal Decree 1699/2011, of 18 November 2011, was passed. Although this law regulates connection to small-scale electric energy production grids, it leaves unresolved (for a period of up to four months, according to the decree itself) the drafting of rules on the supply of electricity produced by a consumer's grid for their own use, which is known as own consumption. Without any regulation of the administrative and economic terms, the abovementioned directives are likely to be infringed, it will become difficult to achieve the goals of increasing renewable energy supply and reducing CO2 emissions, families’ domestic consumption and the necessary competitiveness of the national economy will be adversely affected and the impact on businesses and industries in the sector will be very harsh.

Does the Commission consider that the Spanish electrical system, which last winter had to halt the construction of wind farms and 20% of electricity generation in its nuclear power stations, has no need of systems to control the demand curve, including systems to store domestic energy for use during off-peak periods?

Joint answer given by Mr Oettinger on behalf of the Commission

(11 October 2013)

The Commission would like to refer the Honourable Member to its reply to Written Question E-009038/2013.

While the Commission is currently analysing the compatibility of the Spanish power sector reforms with EC law, we understand the concerns expressed by the Honourable Member about potential negative impacts of a number of measures tabled on investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency in Spain.

As the Commission recently highlighted in its communication on the Internal Energy Market (46), demand response, equally important as energy efficiency, is a useful tool to influence the electricity demand curve by modulating energy demand according to the situation on the market, thus avoiding costly peaks of demand. Active consumers' participation is necessary for successful demand response programmes and could allow consumers to save money while increasing the efficiency and stability of the electricity system. These positive effects can indeed be further enhanced if demand response measures integrate the use of energy storage.

The EU legislation on energy efficiency (47) requires that energy billing performed by energy distributors, distribution system operators and retail energy sales companies is based on actual energy consumption, where this is technically possible and economically justified. This does not exclude a possibility for energy companies to introduce certain fixed charges e.g. to reflect the costs of the maintenance of the grid connection for the final customers. However, this applies to all final customers, not just those with low consumption.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009038/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Energías renovables en el Estado español

En referencia al «Tercer Paquete de la Energía» (Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, julio 2009), a la Directiva 2004/8/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo (febrero 2004), la Directiva 2009/28/CE (abril 2009), la Directiva 2012/27/UE (octubre 2012) y la «Estrategia Europea 2020», se ve con preocupación la actual situación de parálisis del sector de energías renovables y cogeneración en el Estado español, a raíz de las últimas reformas del sector eléctrico (principalmente el RD-L 1/2012, RD-L 13/2012, RD-L 9/2013), la inseguridad jurídica que suponen las medidas retroactivas que afectan a la retribución de las instalaciones de energías renovables en funcionamiento y la pérdida de competitividad de la economía debido al incremento constante del precio de la energía, tanto para los ciudadanos como para la industria.

Es preocupante la deriva legislativa sobre un aspecto clave de la política energética europea: el autoconsumo de energía. En el Estado español se sufre una falta de claridad legislativa desde 2011, cuando se aprueba el Real Decreto 1699/2011, de 18 de noviembre de 2011, que, si bien regula la conexión a la red eléctrica de producción de energía eléctrica de pequeña potencia, deja pendiente (hasta un máximo de cuatro meses según el mismo RD) la elaboración de la regulación del suministro de energía eléctrica producida en el interior de la red de un consumidor para su propio consumo, modalidad que llamamos «autoconsumo». No disponer de la regulación de las condiciones administrativas y económicas llevaría al incumplimiento de las Directivas antes referidas, pondría en riesgo el logro de los objetivos de penetración de energías renovables y reducción de emisiones de CO2, lastraría la necesaria competitividad de la economía del Estado y el consumo de las familias y tendría un impacto muy negativo en las empresas e industria del sector.

¿Cree la Comisión que el hecho de perjudicar el autoconsumo aplicando un «peaje de soporte» por la energía consumida, aunque no se inyecte directamente a la red convencional, fomentaría el ahorro y la eficiencia energética? ¿No cree la Comisión que este «peaje de soporte» sería necesario aplicarlo cuando los costes del sistema eléctrico (de transporte, distribución y generación) tendrían que ser pagados con el término de potencia fijo y la energía consumida de la red?

Respuesta del Sr. Oettinger en nombre de la Comisión

(11 de septiembre de 2013)

De acuerdo con la Directiva 2009/28/CE sobre fuentes de energía renovables (48), los Estados miembros tienen la responsabilidad y la obligación de establecer medidas de diseño eficiente para alcanzar el objetivo de 2020 y garantizar que la cuota de energía renovable se mantenga al menos al nivel de la trayectoria indicativa hacia el objetivo de 2020. En 2011, el Estado español se ajustaba a esa trayectoria (49).

Además, la Comisión es consciente de los recientes acontecimientos producidos en el sector eléctrico del Estado español y de la preocupación por el impacto de los cambios introducidos en el marco de apoyo, en particular para las instalaciones existentes, sobre el clima de inversiones en el sector de las energías renovables. En sus conversaciones con el Gobierno español, la Comisión ha manifestado en repetidas ocasiones la necesidad de garantizar que las reformas estructurales necesarias no pongan en peligro el desarrollo futuro de las energías renovables y la consecución del objetivo 2020. En este contexto, el fomento del autoconsumo de electricidad de producción nacional puede constituir un instrumento eficaz para promover proyectos de fuentes de energía renovables (FER) a pequeña escala. No obstante, el Derecho de la UE no incluye disposiciones específicas sobre el tratamiento del autoconsumo en la aplicación de gravámenes más allá de la prohibición general de discriminar la electricidad de fuentes de energía renovables a la hora de establecer las tarifas de transporte y distribución (50).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009038/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Renewable energies in Spain

Bearing in mind the third energy package (European Council and Parliament, July 2009), Directive 2004/8/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (February 2004), Directive 2009/28/EC (April 2009), Directive 2012/27/EU (October 2012) and the Europe 2020 strategy, it is extremely worrying to note the current state of paralysis in the Spanish renewable energy and cogeneration sector following recent reforms to the electricity sector (notably royal decree-laws 1/2012, 13/2012 and 9/2013), the legal uncertainty caused by retroactive measures affecting payments to functioning renewable energy facilities and the loss in competitiveness of the economy due to constant increases in energy prices both for the public and the industry.

It is worrying to note this legislative drift on such a key aspect of European energy policy as own consumption of energy. There has been a lack of legal clarity in Spain since 2011, when Royal Decree 1699/2011, of 18 November 2011, was passed. Although this law regulates connection to small-scale electric energy production grids, it leaves unresolved (for a period of up to four months, according to the decree itself) the drafting of rules on the supply of electricity produced by a consumer's grid for their own use, which is known as own consumption. Without any regulation of the administrative and economic terms, the abovementioned directives are likely to be infringed, it will become difficult to achieve the goals of increasing renewable energy supply and reducing CO2 emissions, families’ domestic consumption and the necessary competitiveness of the national economy will be adversely affected and the impact on businesses and industries in the sector will be very harsh.

Does the Commission believe that penalising own consumption by levying an additional charge on energy consumed, even where it is not being directly fed into the conventional grid, is likely to encourage energy saving and efficiency? Does the Commission not consider that this additional charge should be applied in cases where the costs of the electricity system (transportation, distribution and generation) need to be covered by the fixed power charge and energy consumption from the grid?

Answer given by Mr Oettinger on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

Under the Renewable Energy Directive 2009/28/EC (51), it is the responsibility and obligation of the Member States to have in place efficiently designed measures to reach the 2020 target and to ensure that the share of renewable energy remains at least at the level of the indicative trajectory towards the 2020 target. In 2011, Spain was on track as regards this trajectory (52).

At the same time, the Commission is aware of recent developments in the electricity sector in Spain and concerns about the impact of changes to the support framework, including for existing installations, on the investment climate in the renewable energy sector. In its dialogue with the Spanish Government, the Commission has repeatedly stressed the need to ensure that the necessary structural reforms do not put at risk the further development of renewable energy and the achievement of the 2020 target. In this context promoting own consumption of domestically produced electricity of renewable sources can be an effective instrument to promote smaller scale Renewable Energy Sources (RES) projects. However, EC law does not contain any specific provisions on the treatment of own consumption when levying charges beyond the general prohibition to discriminate against electricity from renewable energy sources when setting transmission and distribution tariffs (53).

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung P-009045/13

an die Kommission

Bernd Posselt (PPE)

(25. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Kroatische Gerichtsverfahren gegen den früheren Ministerpräsidenten Sanader

Die bisherigen Gerichtsverfahren gegen den früheren Ministerpräsidenten Sanader in Kroatien waren weder fair noch frei, da sie in einer Atmosphäre der Einschüchterung, auf der Grundlage von unglaubwürdigen Zeugenaussagen, unter willkürlicher Ausklammerung von Entlastungszeugen der Verteidigung, bei medialer Vorverurteilung und anderen schweren Mängeln stattfanden. Hinzu kommt, dass Urteile acht Monate, nachdem sie ergangen sind, noch nicht schriftlich ausgefertigt sind, obwohl dies laut kroatischem Gesetz binnen eines Monats zu geschehen hat, so dass jeder Einspruch unmöglich war, obwohl Sanader seitdem im Gefängnis sitzt.

Ist die Kommission über diese schwerwiegenden Mängel im Justizsystem, gerade auch in diesem Fall, informiert?

Hat Kroatien die europäischen Richtlinien im Rahmen der justiziellen Zusammenarbeit umgesetzt und ist das beschriebene Verfahren mit EU-Recht vereinbar?

Antwort von Frau Reding im Namen der Kommission

(30. September 2013)

Die EU hat sich vor kurzem auf mehrere Richtlinien über gemeinsame Mindestverfahrensrechte in Strafverfahren verständigt, nämlich auf die Richtlinie über das Recht auf Dolmetschleistungen und Übersetzungen in Strafverfahren (54), die Richtlinie über das Recht auf Belehrung und Unterrichtung in Strafverfahren (55) und eine Richtlinie zum Recht auf Rechtsbeistand in Strafverfahren (56). Wie alle anderen Mitgliedstaaten ist Kroatien verpflichtet, die gemeinsamen Mindestverfahrensrechte in nationales Recht umzusetzen. Die Kommission wird die Umsetzung dieser Richtlinien durch Kroatien genau verfolgen.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-009045/13

to the Commission

Bernd Posselt (PPE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Trials of former Croatian Prime Minister Sanader

The trials of former Prime Minister Ivo Sanader held to date in Croatia have been neither fair nor free. They have been conducted in an atmosphere of intimidation and on the basis of unreliable testimony, witnesses for the defence have been arbitrarily excluded, and there has been a backdrop of media prejudice, amongst other serious shortcomings. In addition, sentences issued eight months ago have still not been formalised in writing, although this should be done within one month under Croatian law. As a result, there has been no possibility to lodge an appeal, even though Sanader has been sitting in prison ever since.

Has the Commission been informed about these serious shortcomings in the judicial system, specifically in this case?

Has Croatia implemented the EU judicial cooperation directives, and are the proceedings described compatible with EC law?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(30 September 2013)

The EU recently agreed on several Directives on common minimum procedural rights in criminal proceedings, namely the directives on interpretation and translation (57), on the right to information about rights (58) and on the right of access to a lawyer (59). Like all other Member States, Croatia will have to transpose these common minimum standards into their national law. The Commission will closely monitor the transposition of those instruments by Croatia.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009046/13

to the Commission

Gay Mitchell (PPE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Unlocking the consumer protection market

It has been argued that a new form of consumer protection debt waiver would unlock the consumer protection market and hugely increase the flow of credit into the economy.

ResPublica, a UK-based independent think-tank, contends that banks should be forced to insure loans to SMEs in order to guard against bankruptcies and encourage lending. The think-tank further believes that consumer lending should also be protected with insurance. Various studies in the EU and the US have highlighted how credit contraction has impacted on GDP growth — in the US, a 4% credit contraction has led to a fall in GDP of 0.6%, and, in the EU, a 5% contraction has led to a reduction of 1.6%.

Has the Commission ever considered the impact of an EU-wide form of consumer protection debt waiver, such as insurance, on our economy, and will it set out its position on the matter?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2013)

The insurance of consumer lending (except for mortgages) tends to be rather limited in terms of market size across the EU. The Commission is not aware of any public scheme in the Member States encouraging such insurance with the objective of increasing consumer lending. The Commission has no information on the impact on the economy of an EU-wide form of consumer protection debt waiver and is not planning initiatives in this respect in close future.

If the creditor makes any insurance compulsory for obtaining consumer credit, he is obliged by the directive 2008/48/EC (60) to include the cost of this insurance in the total cost of the credit and in the Annual Percentage Rate of charge in advertisements and pre-contractual information.

With regards to SMEs, the Commission is addressing their difficult access to credit through a variety of financial instruments. The loan guarantee facility of the current CIP programme 2007-2013 is made available to SMEs through financial intermediaries, such as banks and mutual guarantee societies. For the period 2014-2020, the Commission has put forward proposals for a new generation of financial instruments. The new COSME programme will include a loan guarantee facility which will consist of:

This facility will complement the one included in the new Horizon 2020 programme, which will support research and innovation.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009047/13

to the Commission

Alyn Smith (Verts/ALE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Follow up on Written Question E-002862/2013

The Veterinary Medicinal Products Directive (2001/82/EC), as amended lays down a series of controls on the manufacture, authorisation, marketing, distribution and post-authorisation surveillance of veterinary medicines applicable in all Member States.

In 2010 the Commission launched a public consultation on the legal framework for veterinary medicinal products. The stated aim of this public consultation was to provide sufficient information for the production of an impact assessment relating to a revision of the legal framework for veterinary medicinal products.

Can the Commission state when the impact assessment relating to a revision of the legal framework for veterinary medicinal products will be published?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(2 September 2013)

All impact assessments are published once the Commission has adopted the related proposals. The Commission would like to inform the Honourable Member that it aims to adopt the proposal on the revision of veterinary medicines Directive by the end of 2013.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009048/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Απόφαση του ελληνικού δικαστηρίου κατά της Ελληνικής Επιτροπής Ανταγωνισμού

Με απόφασή του το Διοικητικό Εφετείο Αθηνών υποχρεώνει την Ελληνική Επιτροπή Ανταγωνισμού να καταβάλει το ποσό των 500 000 ευρώ, ως αποζημίωση σε επιχείρηση, επειδή αδικαιολόγητα καθυστερούσε να διερευνήσει συγκεκριμένη καταγγελία για την ύπαρξη καρτέλ στην αγορά του ξενόγλωσσου βιβλίου στην Ελλάδα.

Με δεδομένο ότι γινόμαστε συνεχώς δέκτες παραπόνων για καθυστερήσεις στις διαδικασίες διερεύνησης υποθέσεων που έχει αναλάβει η Ελληνική Επιτροπή Ανταγωνισμού, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Almunia εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(18 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Η Επιτροπή θεωρεί ότι η απόφαση στην οποία αναφέρεται το Αξιότιμο Μέλος δεν είναι οριστική και ότι η Ελληνική Αρχή Ανταγωνισμού έχει ανακοινώσει την πρόθεσή της να προσβάλει την απόφαση (62). Περισσότερες λεπτομέρειες σχετικά με το θέμα αυτό παρέχονται στις απαντήσεις της Επιτροπής στις αναφορές 130/2007 και 338/2012.

Όσον αφορά τις επιπτώσεις παρόμοιων ενεργειών στην ΕΕ, τα κράτη μέλη δεν είναι υποχρεωμένα να ενημερώνουν την Επιτροπή με συστηματικό τρόπο.

Σε γενικές γραμμές, υπενθυμίζεται ότι η Επιτροπή και οι εθνικές αρχές ανταγωνισμού (ΕΑΑ) έχουν παράλληλες αρμοδιότητες όσον αφορά την εφαρμογή των κανόνων ανταγωνισμού της ΕΕ (άρθρα 101 και 102 της ΣΛΕΕ) και ότι συνεργάζονται στο πλαίσιο του Ευρωπαϊκού Δικτύου Ανταγωνισμού (ΕΔΑ), με στόχο να διασφαλισθεί η αποτελεσματική και συνεκτική εφαρμογή των κανόνων αυτών.

Ωστόσο, οι διαδικασίες των εθνικών αρχών ανταγωνισμού και οι σχετικές δυνατότητες νομικής προστασίας διέπονται από το δίκαιο του οικείου κράτους μέλους. Η εφαρμογή των εν λόγω εθνικών διατάξεων πρέπει να συμβιβάζεται με τις γενικές αρχές του δικαίου της ΕΕ, όπως την αρχή της αποτελεσματικότητας. Προς τούτο, το εθνικό πλαίσιο δεν πρέπει να καθιστά την επιβολή των κανόνων ανταγωνισμού της ΕΕ υπερβολικά δυσχερή ή πρακτικώς αδύνατη.

Η Επιτροπή σημειώνει ότι έχει δοθεί στην Ελληνική Αρχή Ανταγωνισμού το δικαίωμα να καθορίζει τις προτεραιότητές της βάσει του ελληνικού Νόμου 3959/2011 περί προστασίας του ελεύθερου ανταγωνισμού.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009048/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Decision by Greek court against Hellenic Competition Commission

The Athens Administrative Court of Appeal has ordered the Hellenic Competition Commission to pay the sum of EUR 500 000 in compensation to a company, because it delayed in investigating complaints of a cartel on the foreign language book market in Greece without good cause.

In view of the fact that we are constantly hearing reports of delays in investigations undertaken by the Hellenic Competition Commission, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(18 September 2013)

The Commission understands that the judgment referred to by the Honourable Member is not final and that the Greek competition authority has announced its intention to appeal (63). Additional detail about the subject can be found in the Commission's replies to Petitions 130/2007 and 338/2012.

Regarding the incidence of similar actions in the EU, Member States are not obliged to inform the Commission in a systematic manner.

In general terms, it is recalled that the Commission and the national competition authorities (NCAs) have parallel competences to apply the EU competition rules (Articles 101 and 102 TFEU) and that they cooperate in the European Competition Network (ECN) with a view to ensure effective and coherent application of these rules.

Notwithstanding, procedures of NCAs and related possibilities for legal redress are governed by the laws of the respective Member State. The application of such national provisions must be compatible with general principles of EC law, which include the principle of effectiveness. In this regard, the national framework must not make enforcement of the EU competition rules excessively difficult or practically impossible.

The Commission notes that the Greek Competition Authority has been given the right to set its priorities by virtue of Greek Law 3959/2011 on the Protection of Free Competition.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009049/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Προκλητικές δηλώσεις του διευθυντή της Eurostat για την ελληνική δικαιοσύνη

Ο διευθυντής της Ευρωπαϊκής Στατιστικής Υπηρεσίας (Eurostat) κ. Radermacher, σε συνέντευξή του στη βελγική εφημερίδα Le Soir για το Ελληνικό Στατιστικό Σύστημα, χαρακτήρισε ως «κόλαση του Δάντη» τις δικαστικές έρευνες που διεξάγονται από την ελληνική δικαιοσύνη σε βάρος του προέδρου της Ελληνικής Στατιστικής Αρχής (ΕΛΣΤΑΤ) κ. Γεωργίου, για το σκάνδαλο της παραποίησης των ελληνικών στατιστικών στοιχείων. Στην ίδια συνέντευξη ο διευθυντής της Eurostat αναφέρεται στα συναλλαγματικά swaps της Ελλάδας, κατηγορώντας τις ελληνικές αρχές ότι απέκρυπταν επί μακρόν τα επίμαχα στοιχεία, την ίδια στιγμή που οι έρευνες της Ευρωπαϊκής Κεντρικής Τράπεζας για τη χρήση των συναλλαγματικών swaps από τα κράτη μέλη της ΕΕ παραμένει, μέχρι και σήμερα, κρυφή.

Με δεδομένο ότι οι ανακριτικές διαδικασίες για το σκάνδαλο παραποίησης των ελληνικών στατιστικών στοιχείων βρίσκονται σε εξέλιξη, και ότι ο διευθυντής της Eurostat όταν κλήθηκε από την Εξεταστική Επιτροπή της Βουλής σχετικά με το σκάνδαλο της παραποίησης των στατιστικών στοιχείων, αρνήθηκε να παραστεί ενώπιόν της ο ίδιος, αποστέλλοντας μόνο ένα υπόμνημα, χωρίς να υπάρχει η δυνατότητα να απαντήσει σε ερωτήσεις ελλήνων βουλευτών, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Šemeta εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(16 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Radermacher συνιστά παρέμβαση στο ελληνικό δικαστικό σύστημα. Τα στοιχεία που αναφέρονται και οι απόψεις που εκφράζονται στην εν λόγω συνέντευξη δεν υπαγορεύουν ούτε περιορίζουν τις ενέργειες που θα αποφασιστούν από τις ελληνικές δικαστικές αρχές στις διαδικασίες που εκκρεμούν ενώπιόν τους.

Radermacher από την εξεταστική επιτροπή του ελληνικού κοινοβουλίου που εξετάζει τις αμφιβολίες σχετικά με τα στοιχεία του ελληνικού ελλείμματος του 2009. Σε συμφωνία με την επιτροπή, ο κ. Radermacher παρείχε λεπτομερείς γραπτές απαντήσεις σε όλες τις ερωτήσεις που υποβλήθηκαν.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009049/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Insulting statements by director of Eurostat about the Greek judicial authorities

The director of the Statistical Office of the European Communities (Eurostat), Mr Radermacher, speaking in an interview with the Belgian newspaper Le Soir on the Greek statistical system, used the term ‘Dante’s Inferno’ to describe the judicial investigations being conducted by the Greek judicial authorities against Mr Georgiou, president of the Hellenic Statistical Authority (EL.STAT), in connection with the scandal of falsified Greek statistics. In the same interview, the director of Eurostat referred to Greek currency swaps and accused the Greek authorities of having long concealed the data in question, at a time when enquiries by the European Central Bank into the use of currency swaps by EU Member States are still being conducted in secret.

In view of the fact that the investigation into the scandal of falsified Greek statistics is under way and that the director of Eurostat refused, when summoned, to appear in person before Parliament’s committee of inquiry into the scandal of falsified statistics and simply sent a memorandum, so that there was no opportunity for Greek MEPs to have their questions answered, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Šemeta on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009050/13

προς την Επιτροπή (Αντιπρόεδρος/Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος)

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: VP/HR — Ανθρωπιστική κατάσταση στη Συρία και εκπροσώπηση μειονοτήτων στη Συνδιάσκεψη της Γενεύης για την Ειρήνη

Η εμφύλια σύρραξη στην Συρία έχει προκαλέσει τεράστια ανθρωπιστική κρίση, η οποία πλήττει και τις εθνικές και θρησκευτικές μειονότητες. Στις συριακές περιοχές των μειονοτήτων, ειδικά στα σύνορα με την Τουρκία, όπου έχουν εκτοπιστεί εκατομμύρια σύριοι (Εσωτερικά Εκτοπισμένα Άτομα) υπάρχουν έντονα παράπονα ότι «δεν φτάνει» η διεθνής ανθρωπιστική βοήθεια.

Ταυτόχρονα, διοργανώνεται στη Γενεύη «Συνδιάσκεψη για την ειρήνη στη Συρία» η οποία ανακοινώθηκε ότι θα λάβει χώρα τους αμέσως προσεχείς μήνες. Για την εν λόγω συνδιάσκεψη, το Συμβούλιο Υπουργών Εξωτερικών της ΕΕ, στις 27.5.2013, τόνισε ότι «καλωσορίζει την πρωτοβουλία για τη συνδιάσκεψη ειρήνης» και ότι «η ΕΕ θα καταβάλει κάθε προσπάθεια για να βοηθήσει στην επίτευξη των κατάλληλων συνθηκών για την επιτυχή έκβαση αυτής της Συνδιάσκεψης».

Με δεδομένα τα παραπάνω, ερωτάται η Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος:

Απάντηση της Ύπατης Εκπροσώπου/Αντιπροέδρου κ. Ashton εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(23 Οκτωβρίου 2013)

Η ΕΕ παρέχει την ανθρωπιστική της βοήθεια σε αυτούς που τη χρειάζονται, ανεξάρτητα από το θρήσκευμα, την εθνικότητα ή άλλα χαρακτηριστικά ταυτότητας. Το σημερινό συνολικό ποσό της ενωσιακής ανθρωπιστικής και μη ανθρωπιστικής βοήθειας, συμπεριλαμβανομένων και των συνεισφορών των κρατών μελών, ανέρχεται σε περίπου 2 δισεκατ. ευρώ. Το μεγαλύτερο μέρος της βοήθειας της ΕΕ στη Συρία έχει παρασχεθεί μέσω οργανισμών των Ηνωμένων Εθνών και διεθνών ΜΚΟ.

Η ΕΕ έχει ανέκαθεν επιμείνει στην ανάγκη το συριακό καθεστώς να παρέχει πρόσβαση για ανθρωπιστικούς λόγους σε όλα τα τμήματα της συριακής επικράτειας υπό τον έλεγχό της, καθώς και πέραν των γραμμών αντιπαράθεσης, στις περιοχές που ελέγχει η αντιπολίτευση. Ενόψει των συνεχιζόμενων δυσκολιών, η ΕΕ, καθώς και άλλοι παράγοντες, ενέτειναν τις προσπάθειές τους για την επίτευξη του εν λόγω στόχου.

Ήδη από την έναρξη της εξέγερσης, στις επαφές της με εκπροσώπους της συριακής αντιπολίτευσης και διαφόρων μειονοτήτων, η ΥΕ/ΑΠ τονίζει με έμφαση και υπογραμμίζει την ανάγκη η αντιπολίτευση να είναι κατά το δυνατόν ευρεία και αντιπροσωπευτική. Έχει επίσης καταστήσει σαφές ότι η ειρηνευτική διάσκεψη μπορεί να επιτύχει μόνον αν και οι δύο πλευρές επιθυμούν πραγματικά να διαπραγματευθούν και αν διαθέτουν ισχυρή και αντιπροσωπευτική εντολή· στην δε περίπτωση της αντιπολίτευσης, τούτο θα είναι δυνατό μόνον εφόσον εξασφαλιστεί επαρκές εύρος συμμετοχής.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009050/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Humanitarian situation in Syria and representation of minorities at Geneva Peace Conference

The civil conflict in Syria has caused a massive humanitarian crisis, which is also affecting ethnic and religious minorities. In minority areas of Syria, especially along the Turkish border, where millions of Syrians have been displaced (internally displaced persons), there are serious complaints that international humanitarian aid ‘is not enough’.

At the same time, a Geneva Peace Conference on Syria is being organised, which is apparently due to take place within the next few months. The Council of EU Foreign Ministers stressed on 27 May 2013 that it ‘welcomed the … call for a peace conference’ on Syria and that ‘the EU would spare no effort in helping to create the appropriate conditions for the Conference to be convened successfully’.

In view of the above, will the High Representative say:

Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Ashton on behalf of the Commission

(23 October 2013)

The EU provides its humanitarian aid to those in need regardless of their confession, ethnicity or other identity features. The current overall sum of EU humanitarian and non-humanitarian assistance, including contributions from Member States, stands at nearly EUR 2 billion. A major part of the EU assistance inside Syria has been provided through UN agencies and international NGOs.

The EU has consistently insisted on the need for the Syrian regime to provide humanatarian access to all parts of Syria under its control, as well as across front lines to the areas controlled by the opposition. In the face of persisting difficulties, the EU as well as other actors increased their efforts to achieve that goal.

In her contacts with representatives of the Syrian opposition and various minority groups, the HR/VP has since the beginning of the uprising been deliveriving strong messages to underline the necessity for the opposition to be as inclusive and representative as possible. She has also been making clear that a peace conference can only succeed if both sides are genuinely willing to negotiate and have strong and representative mandates, which will only be possible for the opposition if it can ensure sufficient inclusiveness.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009051/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Έκθεση του ΔΝΤ για τις ευρωπαϊκές τράπεζες

Σε πρόσφατη έκθεση του ΔΝΤ για το χρηματοοικονομικό σύστημα στην Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση (European Union: Financial System Stability Assessment, March 2013), γίνεται αναφορά στον γερμανικό τραπεζικό τομέα, ο οποίος εκτιμάται ότι είναι ακόμα εκτεθειμένος σε απαιτήσεις σε κρατικά χρέη και ότι επιβαρύνεται από σοβαρούς κινδύνους (risk), λόγω θεσμικών βαρών και αβεβαιοτήτων (regulatory burden and regulatory uncertainty), ενώ ιδιαίτερη αναφορά γίνεται και στις Landesbanken, τις οποίες η έκθεση εμφανίζει ως πιο ευάλωτες σε σχέση με τις υπόλοιπες εμπορικές τράπεζες της χώρας.

Με βάση τα παραπάνω, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Rehn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(27 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Στην έκθεση του ΔΝΤ, του 2013, σχετικά με την αξιολόγηση της σταθερότητας του χρηματοπιστωτικού συστήματος, παράρτημα 9, παρατίθενται λεπτομερή στοιχεία για τα διάφορα προγράμματα αξιολόγησης του χρηματοπιστωτικού τομέα (ΠΑΧΤ) που υλοποίησε το ΔΝΤ από το 2011 σε διάφορα κράτη μέλη της ΕΕ. Οι Landesbanken αναφέρονται στο πλαίσιο του προγράμματος αξιολόγησης του χρηματοπιστωτικού τομέα της Γερμανίας (ΔΝΤ, Ιούλιος 2011).

Το 2011 η Επιτροπή πραγματοποίησε παρόμοια ανάλυση του γερμανικού τραπεζικού τομέα, η οποία αντανακλάται στη σύσταση του Συμβουλίου της 12ης Ιουλίου 2011 σχετικά με το εθνικό πρόγραμμα μεταρρυθμίσεων του 2011 της Γερμανίας (64), η οποία εκδόθηκε βάσει σύστασης της Επιτροπής.

Προς το παρόν η εποπτεία των τραπεζών πραγματοποιείται από τις εθνικές εποπτικές αρχές και όχι σε ευρωπαϊκό επίπεδο. Παρ' όλα αυτά, οι περισσότερες εκ των Landesbanken περιελήφθησαν στο φάσμα των τραπεζών που κάλυψε ο τελευταίος γύρος των δοκιμών αντοχής (stress-tests)· ανάλογα δε με την εμβέλεια των μελλοντικών γύρων, παρόμοιος αριθμός Landesbanken ενδέχεται να θεωρηθούν «εντός φάσματος». Το θέμα αυτό, ωστόσο, εμπίπτει στην αρμοδιότητα των αρμόδιων εποπτικών αρχών.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009051/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: IMF report on European banks

A recent IMF report on the financial system in the European Union (European Union: Financial System Stability Assessment, March 2013), refers to the German banking sector which, it considers, is still exposed to government claims and vulnerable to serious risks due to the regulatory burden and regulatory uncertainty, referring in particular to the Landesbanken, which appear to be more vulnerable than other commercial banks in the country.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(27 September 2013)

The IMF 2013 Financial System Stability Assesment (FSSA) details in its Annex 9 different Financial Sector Assessment Programs (FSAPs) that the IMF has performed since 2011 in various EU Member States. The Landesbanken are mentioned in the context of the IMF's July 2011 FSAP in Germany.

In 2011 the Commission performed a similar analysis of the German banking sector which was reflected in the Country Specific Council Recommendation of 12 July 2011 on the National Reform Programme 2011 of Germany (65), adopted on a recommendation of the Commission.

For the time being, bank supervision is performed by national supervisors and not at the European level. Nonetheless, most Landesbanken were within the scope of the last round of European stress tests and, depending on the size of future exercises, a similar number of Landesbanken are likely to be deemed ‘in scope’. This however falls under the responsibility of the relevant supervisory authorities.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009053/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Γιατί επιλέχθηκε η ακριβή λύση για την ΑΤΕ

Με βάση τα επίσημα απολογιστικά στοιχεία, τα οποία έχω ήδη παραθέσει στην ερώτησή μου Ε-005283/2013, αποδεικνύεται ότι η μεταβίβαση της «καλής» Αγροτικής Τράπεζας της Ελλάδας (ΑΤΕ) στην Τράπεζα Πειραιώς κόστισε στο ελληνικό δημόσιο, εν μέσω κρίσης, περισσότερα από 9 δισεκατομμύρια ευρώ. Ωστόσο, οι εκτιμήσεις της Τράπεζας της Ελλάδος («Έκθεση για την Ανακεφαλαιοποίηση και Αναδιάταξη του Ελληνικού Τραπεζικού Τομέα», Δεκέμβριος 2012), ήταν ότι απαιτούνταν 4,9 δισεκατομμύρια ευρώ για την ανακεφαλαιοποίηση της ΑΤΕ, τα οποία θα μπορούσαν να φτάνουν και μόλις σε 3,8 δισεκατομμύρια ευρώ αν συνυπολογίζονταν και οι υπεραξίες των μετοχών και των ομολόγων. Αν λοιπόν δεν είχε επιλεγεί η μεταβίβαση της «καλής» ΑΤΕ στην Τράπεζα Πειραιώς, αλλά η ανακεφαλαιοποίηση της Τράπεζας, θα υπήρχε σημαντική οικονομία πόρων του Ταμείου Χρηματοπιστωτικής Σταθερότητας και του έλληνα φορολογούμενου.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Rehn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(2 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Η αρχή εξυγίανσης στην Ελλάδα που είναι υπεύθυνη για την εκτέλεση των μέτρων εξυγίανσης είναι η Τράπεζα της Ελλάδος.

Η Αγροτική Τράπεζα της Ελλάδος εξυγιάνθηκε σύμφωνα με το άρθρο 63Δ του νόμου 3601/2007. Η Τράπεζα της Ελλάδος, ως αρμόδια αρχή εξυγίανσης προβαίνει σε μια αρχική εκτίμηση του χρηματοδοτικού κενού με βάση συντηρητικές παραδοχές. Εν συνεχεία, διορίζεται ελεγκτής για να εκτιμήσει το χρηματοδοτικό κενό κατά την ημερομηνία της εξυγίανσης. Η εξυγίανση της Αγροτικής Τράπεζας της Ελλάδος πραγματοποιήθηκε σύμφωνα με τις δεσμεύσεις που συμφωνήθηκαν από τις ελληνικές αρχές βάσει του προγράμματος οικονομικής προσαρμογής για την Ελλάδα, στο πλαίσιο της εφαρμοζόμενης χρηματοπιστωτικής πολιτικής.

Η Ευρωπαϊκή Επιτροπή επιθυμεί να παραπέμψει το Αξιότιμο Μέλος του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου στην Τράπεζα της Ελλάδος για πιο αναλυτικές πληροφορίες σχετικά με την πραγματοποίηση της συγκεκριμένης συναλλαγής. Συμπληρωματικές πληροφορίες σχετικά με το εν εξελίξει πρόγραμμα οικονομικής προσαρμογής για την Ελλάδα δημοσιεύονται στον δικτυακό τόπο της ECFIN:

http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/publications/occasional_paper/

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009053/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Why was the expensive solution chosen for ATE?

Based on official closing data, which I previously included in my question Ε-005283/2013, the transfer of the ‘good’ Agricultural Bank of Greece (ATE) to Piraeus Bank cost the Greek state over EUR 9 billion, in the midst of a crisis. However, according to the estimates by the Bank of Greece (Report on the recapitalisation and restructuring of the Greek banking sector, December 2012), EUR 4.9 billion was needed in order to recapitalise ATE or, if capital gains on shares and bonds were included, just EUR 3.8 billion. If a choice had been made not to transfer the ‘good’ ATE to Piraeus Bank and to recapitalise the bank, considerable savings would have been made for the Financial Stability Fund and Greek taxpayers.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(2 September 2013)

The Resolution Authority of Greece responsible for executing resolution measures is the Bank of Greece.

Agricultural Bank of Greece was resolved according to Article 63D of Law 3601/2007. As such, the Bank of Greece as the relevant Resolution Authority performs an initial estimation of the funding gap based on conservative assumptions. Sequentially, an auditor is appointed to estimate the funding gap at the date of the resolution. The resolution of Agricultural Bank of Greece was conducted in line with the commitments agreed by the Hellenic authorities under the Economic Adjustment Programme for Greece, as part of the ongoing Financial Sector policy.

The European Commission would like to refer the Honourable Member of the European Parliament to the Bank of Greece for more detailed information of the specific transaction that was carried out. Additional information on the ongoing Economic Adjustment Programme for Greece can be found on the ECFIN publication website:

http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/publications/occasional_paper/

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009054/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Καταγραφή επιδοτήσεων προϊόντων στις ελληνικές συγκοινωνιακές ΔΕΚΟ

Σύμφωνα με τον Κανονισμό ESA95, αλλά και την απάντηση (Ε-003754/2013), οι επιδοτήσεις προϊόντων κατατάσσονται στα έσοδα μιας κρατικής επιχείρησης, εφόσον αυτή χρηματοδοτείται κυρίως από τις πωλήσεις του προϊόντος ή της υπηρεσίας που προσφέρει, σε «οικονομικά σημαντικές τιμές», εφαρμόζοντας το κριτήριο του 50%. Επίσης, σύμφωνα πάλι με τον Κανονισμό ESA95 (D.319), οι «επιδοτήσεις σε δημόσιες επιχειρήσεις και οιονεί επιχειρήσεις για αντιστάθμιση των συνεχών ζημιών τις οποίες υφίστανται, όσον αφορά τις παραγωγικές δραστηριότητές τους, επειδή χρεώνουν τιμές που είναι χαμηλότερες από το μέσο κόστος παραγωγής, λόγω συγκεκριμένης κρατικής ή ευρωπαϊκής οικονομικής και κοινωνικής πολιτικής» αποτελούν και αυτές επιδοτήσεις προϊόντων.

Με δεδομένα τα παραπάνω, αλλά και

α) τον ελληνικό νόμο 2669/1998 που στο άρθρο 5 (παράγραφος 5) ορίζει για τις συγκοινωνιακές δημόσιες επιχειρήσεις ότι «η διαφορά μεταξύ του λειτουργικού κόστους και του καθοριζόμενου κάθε φορά κομίστρου, όπως αυτό προσδιορίζεται με την τιμολογιακή πολιτική, αποτελεί κοινωνική παροχή, η οποία αντισταθμίζεται με την καταβολή της διαφοράς από τον Κρατικό Προϋπολογισμό», καθώς και

β) το νόμο 3920/2011, όπου στο άρθρο 6 (παράγραφος 6, δ) ορίζει ότι «Ο ΟΑΣΑ λαμβάνει επιδότηση από τον Κρατικό Προϋπολογισμό για την κάλυψη του συνολικού ετήσιου λειτουργικού ελλείμματος των εταιρειών του Ομίλου ΟΑΣΑ, με βάση το παραγόμενο συγκοινωνιακό έργο και δείκτες έργου, κόστους και ποιότητας, στους οποίους περιλαμβάνονται υποχρεωτικώς τα ελάχιστα προσφερθέντα οχηματοχιλιόμετρα, το ανώτατο επιτρεπτό λειτουργικό κόστος ανά οχηματοχιλιόμετρο και ο κατώτερος επιτρεπτός βαθμός ικανοποίησης πελατείας, καθώς και οποιοιδήποτε άλλοι δείκτες εφαρμόζονται διεθνώς στα συγκοινωνιακά δεδομένα», ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Šemeta εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(6 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Το 2010 η ELSTAT, εφαρμόζοντας τους υφιστάμενους στατιστικούς κανόνες (66), ταξινόμησε 17 ελεγχόμενους από το δημόσιο οργανισμούς, συμπεριλαμβανομένων των αναφερόμενων εταιρειών, στην ελληνική γενική κυβέρνηση. Οι αναταξινομηθείσες εταιρείες δημόσιων μεταφορών θεωρήθηκε ότι είναι μονάδες γενικής κυβέρνησης, επειδή, σύμφωνα με το κριτήριο του 50%, οι πωλήσεις τους σε ποσοστό λειτουργικού κόστους δεν υπερέβησαν το κατώφλι του 50% για μια παρατεταμένη περίοδο πριν από το έτος αξιολόγησης.

Σύμφωνα με τη νομοθεσία της Ένωσης (67), «οι επιδοτήσεις προϊόντων είναι εκείνες οι επιδοτήσεις που καταβάλλονται ανά μονάδα ενός αγαθού ή μιας υπηρεσίας που παράγεται ή εισάγεται». Σύμφωνα με το κριτήριο του 50%, οι πωλήσεις περιλαμβάνουν τις πληρωμές που έγιναν από τη γενική κυβέρνηση, μόνο αν οι εν λόγω πληρωμές συνδέονται με τον όγκο ή την αξία του παραγόμενου έργου. Οι πωλήσεις δεν περιλαμβάνουν πληρωμές που έγιναν από την κυβέρνηση για να καλύψουν ένα γενικό έλλειμμα που πραγματοποιήθηκε έως το τέλος του οικονομικού έτους ή πληρώθηκε ως σταθερό ποσό εκ των προτέρων (68).

Ο όμιλος ΟΑΣΑ και οι θυγατρικές του έλαβαν επιδοτήσεις που υπολογίστηκαν με έναν ειδικό τύπο που ορίζεται από τον νόμο (69) ο οποίος προβλέπει τετραμηνιαίες προπληρωμές με βάση την προβλεπόμενη ζημία για το έτος. Οι εν λόγω πληρωμές παραμένουν αμετάβλητες και ούτε ο ΟΑΣΑ δικαιούται να ζητήσει περισσότερη χρηματοδότηση στην περίπτωση αποτυχίας επίτευξης των στόχων του ούτε και το ελληνικό κράτος μπορεί να τη μειώσει, εάν υπάρχει υπέρβαση στους προκαθορισμένους στόχους.

Σημειώνεται ότι ο τύπος αυτός δεν βασίζεται στην ποσότητα του παραγόμενου έργου (αριθμός επιβατών), αλλά στην πρόβλεψη του ελλείμματος της εταιρείας.

Στοιχεία που συλλέγονται για στατιστικούς σκοπούς, τα οποία επιτρέπουν τον προσδιορισμό του προσώπου ή οικονομικού παράγοντα τον οποίο αφορούν τα στοιχεία, είναι εμπιστευτικά και προστατεύονται σύμφωνα με την ενωσιακή νομοθεσία.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009054/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Reporting subsidies on products in Greek public transport corporations and organisations

According to the ESA95 Regulation and reply Ε-003754/2013, subsidies on products are reported as revenue by a public corporation, provided that it is financed mainly from sales of the product or service which it provides at ‘economically significant prices’, to which the 50% criterion applies. Again in accordance with ESA95 (D.319) ‘subsidies to public undertakings and quasi-undertakings to offset continual losses sustained from their productive activities, because they charge prices which are below average production costs, due to a specific State or European economic and social policy’ are also subsidies on products.

In view of the above and the fact that:

Answer given by Mr Šemeta on behalf of the Commission

(6 September 2013)

In 2010, applying the existing statistical rules (70) ELSTAT classified 17 publicly controlled entities, including the mentioned companies, into the Greek general government. The reclassified public transportation companies were deemed to be general government units because, in accordance with the 50% criterion, their sales to operating costs ratio failed to exceed the 50% threshold for an extended period preceding the assessment year.

According to Union legislation (71)‘subsidies on products are subsidies payable per unit of a good or service produced or imported’. In accordance with the 50% criterion, sales include payments made by general government only if these payments are linked to the volume or value of output. Sales do not include payments made by government to cover an overall deficit realised by the end of a financial year or paid as a fixed amount ex-ante. (72)

The company OASA and its subsidiaries received subsidies calculated with a specific formula defined by Law (73) that provides for quarterly pre-payments based on the projected loss for the year. These payments remain unchanged and neither is OASA entitled to request more funding in the event of failure to achieve its objectives, nor can the Greek State reduce it if there is an overrun in the pre-determined objectives.

It is noted that this formula is not based on the quantity of output (number of passengers), but instead on the forecast of the deficit of the company.

Data collected for statistical purposes, which allow the person or economic operator concerned by the data to be identified, are confidential and shall be protected in accordance with Union legislation.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009055/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Χρηματοδότηση της εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα

Σύμφωνα με πρόσφατη ανακοίνωση της Ευρωπαϊκής Επιτροπής για την εκπαίδευση (Ανασχεδιασμός της Εκπαίδευσης, 20.11.2012, COM(2012)0669), πολλές χώρες της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης έχουν προχωρήσει σε περικοπές μισθών των εκπαιδευτικών και, γενικότερα, της χρηματοδότησης των εκπαιδευτικών συστημάτων. Πιο συγκεκριμένα στην ανακοίνωση της Επιτροπής αναφέρεται ότι «το 2012 οι περισσότερες χώρες διατήρησαν τις ρυθμίσεις τους όσον αφορά τη χρηματοδότηση των μηχανισμών υποστήριξης για μαθητές και φοιτητές και/ή για τις οικογένειές τους. Από τις χώρες που διαθέτουν σχετικά στοιχεία, μόνο η Ισπανία, η Κύπρος και η Πορτογαλία ανέφεραν μείωση της χρηματοδότησης των διαθέσιμων μηχανισμών για την υποστήριξη των εκπαιδευομένων».

Με βάση τα ανωτέρω, καθώς επίσης και το γεγονός ότι η Ελλάδα βρίσκεται στον τρίτο χρόνο οικονομικής προσαρμογής, με τεράστιες περικοπές στις δημόσιες δαπάνες, συμπεριλαμβανομένης της εκπαίδευσης, με αποτέλεσμα η πλειοψηφία των σχολείων και των πανεπιστημίων να υπολειτουργούν, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση της κ. Βασιλείου εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(19 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Η Ευρωπαϊκή Επιτροπή έχει πλήρη επίγνωση των επιπτώσεων της οικονομικής κρίσης στις δημόσιες δαπάνες για την εκπαίδευση στα κράτη μέλη, συμπεριλαμβανόμενης της Ελλάδας, στην οποία ο δείκτης δαπανών για την εκπαίδευση σε σχέση με το ΑΕγχΠ παρέμεινε σχεδόν σταθερός καθόλη τη διάρκεια της κρίσης (δεδομένα COFOG, περίπου 4% του ΑΕγχΠ για την περίοδο 2008-11) (74)· επειδή όμως η σωρευτική απώλεια του ΑΕγχΠ ανήλθε στο 25% περίπου, οι δαπάνες για την παιδεία μειώθηκαν σε ανάλογο ποσοστό.

Όσον αφορά τους μισθούς των εκπαιδευτικών, από πρόσφατη μελέτη της Εurydice (75) προκύπτει ότι το 2012 οι ελληνικές δαπάνες για το ανθρώπινο δυναμικό μειώθηκαν σε σύγκριση με το προηγούμενο έτος κατά 24%, ως συνέπεια διάφορων μέτρων που ελήφθησαν από το 2010.

Όσον αφορά τις μειώσεις της χρηματοδότησης των μηχανισμών υποστήριξης για τους μαθητές, στην έκθεση αναφέρεται ότι καταβάλλονται προσπάθειες να διατηρηθεί η υποστήριξη για επιδότηση στέγασης, γευμάτων ή μεταφοράς, αλλά η κρίση ενδέχεται να είχε σημαντικές επιπτώσεις σε τοπικό επίπεδο (π.χ. στην παροχή υπηρεσιών εστίασης από ορισμένους δήμους).

Η Επιτροπή κατανοεί το γεγονός ότι οι χαμηλές δημόσιες επενδύσεις δυσχεραίνουν την επίτευξη των εθνικών στόχων στο πλαίσιο της στρατηγικής «Ευρώπη 2020» (π.χ. σχετικά με την πρόωρη εγκατάλειψη του σχολείου, την φοίτηση στην τριτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση) και ότι, όπως επισημάνθηκε στην ετήσια επισκόπηση της ανάπτυξης (ΕΕΑ) τόσο του 2012 όσο και του 2013, οι επενδύσεις στην εκπαίδευση και επαγγελματική κατάρτιση είναι σημαντικές για τη στήριξη της μακροπρόθεσμης βιώσιμης ανάπτυξης στην Ελλάδα. Οι ελληνικές αρχές λαμβάνουν μέτρα για τον εξορθολογισμό και τη βελτίωση του συστήματός τους και για την αντιμετώπιση των προκλήσεων από την άποψη της ποιότητας, της αποτελεσματικότητας και της αποδοτικότητας με την εφαρμογή του σχεδίου δράσης για την παιδεία.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009055/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Financing education in Greece

According to a recent Commission communication on education (Rethinking Education, 20 November 2012, COM(2012)0669), numerous countries in the European Union have applied salary cuts for teachers and to funding in general for education systems. In fact, the Commission communication states that ‘in 2012, the majority of countries maintained their arrangements regarding the funding of support mechanisms for pupils and students and/or their families. From the countries with available data, only Spain, Cyprus and Portugal reported a decrease in the funding of available schemes for support of people in education’.

In view of the above and the fact that Greece is in its third year of economic adjustment, involving huge cuts to public spending, including on education, with the result that the majority of schools and universities are operating below par, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(19 September 2013)

The European Commission is fully aware of the impact of the economic crisis on public spending on education in Member States, including Greece. There the ratio of education expenditure to GDP remained almost stable throughout the crisis (COFOG data, ca. 4% of GDP for the period 2008-11) (76), but since the cumulative GDP loss was of ca. 25%, spending on education has decreased by a similar proportion.

As to teacher salaries, a recent Eurydice study (77) shows that in 2012 Greek spending on human resources compared with the previous year fell by 24%, reflecting a number of measures taken as of 2010.

As regards reductions in pupil support programmes, the report states that there has been an effort to maintain support for subsidised accommodation, meals or transport, but the crisis might have had an important impact locally (e.g. in the provision of catering services by some municipalities).

The Commission understands the fact that low public investment makes the achievement of national Europe 2020 strategy targets (e.g. on early school leaving, tertiary attainment) difficult and that, as pointed out in both the 2012 and 2013 Annual Growth Surveys (AGS) investment in education and training is crucial to support long-term sustainable growth in Greece. The Greek authorities are taking steps to rationalise and improve their system and to address challenges in terms of quality, effectiveness and efficiency through implementation of the action plan on education.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009056/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Μελλοντικό κούρεμα του ελληνικού χρέους που κατέχει ο επίσημος τομέας

Πολλά ερωτηματικά έχει προκαλέσει η «μυστική» έκθεση του ΔΝΤ που διέρρευσε σε μέσα ενημέρωσης το Μάιο του 2013, με την οποία παίρνει ουσιαστικά αποστάσεις από τις οικονομικές πολιτικές που επιβάλλει η Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση στο Πρόγραμμα Προσαρμογής της Ελλάδας. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, στην έκθεση αναφέρονται οι ανησυχίες που εξέφραζε το Ταμείο σχετικά με τη βιωσιμότητα του ελληνικού χρέους το 2010, επιρρίπτοντας ευθύνες στην Ευρωπαϊκή Επιτροπή και στα κράτη μέλη της Ευρωζώνης για την καθυστερημένη λήψη της απόφασης για κούρεμα των ελληνικών ομολόγων.

Οι ίδιες ανησυχίες για τη βιωσιμότητα του ελληνικού χρέους εκφράζονται και σε νέα, επίσημη αυτή τη φορά, μελέτη του ΔΝΤ (Debt Sustainability Analysis — January 2013), στην οποία ζητά να ληφθούν συγκεκριμένα μέτρα από την ελληνική κυβέρνηση και τους επίσημους πιστωτές της, ώστε το 2022, το συσσωρευμένο κρατικό χρέος της Ελλάδας να βρίσκεται κάτω από 110% του ΑΕΠ, όταν, για το 2020, υπολογίζεται ότι θα φτάσει στο 124% του ΑΕΠ.

Απαντώντας στο ΔΝΤ ο Επίτροπος Οικονομικών και Νομισματικών Υποθέσεων, κ. Ρεν, ανέφερε ότι «δεν νομίζω ότι είναι δίκαιο το Διεθνές Νομισματικό Ταμείο να νίπτει τας χείρας του, πετώντας το βρόμικο νερό στους ευρωπαϊκούς ώμους».

Με δεδομένα τα παραπάνω, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Rehn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(28 Αυγούστου 2013)

Η τρίτη αναθεώρηση του 2ου προγράμματος προσαρμογής για την Ελλάδα, ολοκληρώθηκε τον Ιούλιο. Το Συμβούλιο διαπίστωσε ότι η δυναμική του χρέους της Ελλάδας είναι σε γενικές γραμμές αμετάβλητη σε σύγκριση με τον Δεκέμβριο του 2012. Ο δείκτης του χρέους προς το ΑΕΠ προβλέπεται να ακολουθήσει και πάλι πτωτική τροχιά το 2014 και να μειωθεί σε επίπεδα χαμηλότερα του 120% το 2021, εφόσον το πρόγραμμα οικονομικής προσαρμογής εξακολουθήσει να υλοποιείται στο ακέραιο. Τα σενάρια προσομοίωσης ακραίων καταστάσεων επιβεβαιώνουν ότι το χρέος θα μειωθεί αισθητά σε σχέση με τα σημερινά επίπεδα με βάση τα περισσότερα σενάρια. Σε περίπτωση συνδυασμού αρνητικών εξελίξεων το χρέος αρχικά θα μειωθεί, αλλά κατόπιν θα σταθεροποιηθεί σε ένα πολύ υψηλό επίπεδο.

Όπως αναφέρθηκε σε δήλωση της Ευρωομάδας στις 21 Φεβρουαρίου 2012, οι εταίροι της ζώνης του ευρώ είναι αποφασισμένοι να παράσχουν επαρκή στήριξη στην Ελλάδα τόσο κατά τη διάρκεια του τρέχοντος προγράμματος όσο και μετά το πέρας αυτού, έως ότου η χώρα αποκτήσει και πάλι πρόσβαση στην αγορά, με προϋπόθεση την πλήρη συμμόρφωση της Ελλάδας με τις απαιτήσεις και τους στόχους του προγράμματος προσαρμογής. Όπως αναφέρθηκε σε δήλωση της Ευρωομάδας τον Νοέμβριο του 2012, τυχόν πρόσθετα μέτρα θα πρέπει να ληφθούν «… όταν η Ελλάδα καταλήξει να έχει ετήσιο πρωτογενές πλεόνασμα, όπως προβλέπεται στο ισχύον ΜΣ, υπό την προϋπόθεση της πλήρους εφαρμογής όλων των όρων που περιλαμβάνονται στο πρόγραμμα …». Η Ευρωομάδα επανέλαβε τη δέσμευση αυτή τον Δεκέμβριο του 2012.

Ως εκ τούτου, μολονότι αναγνωρίζουμε ότι εξακολουθούν να υφίστανται κίνδυνοι, πιστεύουμε ότι είναι πρόωρο να συζητηθεί η περαιτέρω ελάφρυνση του χρέους της Ελλάδας σε αυτό το στάδιο. Αντίθετα, πρέπει να δοθεί έμφαση στον τρόπο με τον οποίο θα δημιουργηθούν ισχυρότερα κίνητρα για τις διαρθρωτικές μεταρρυθμίσεις που απαιτούνται για την προαγωγή της οικονομικής μεγέθυνσης και της απασχόλησης.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009056/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Future haircut to Greek debt held by official sector

The ‘secret’ IMF report leaked to the media in May 2013, in which it basically distances itself from the economic policies imposed by the European Union in the adjustment programme for Greece, has given rise to numerous questions. In fact, the report refers to the concerns expressed by the Fund about the sustainability of the Greek debt in 2010 and blames the European Commission and the Member States of the euro area for the delay in taking the decision to apply a haircut to Greek bonds.

The same concerns about the sustainability of the Greek debt are expressed in a new — official — IMF report (Debt Sustainability Analysis — January 2013), in which it calls for the Greek Government and its official creditors to take specific measures so that, by 2022, Greece’s accrued national debt is below 110% of GDP, when it is expected to be 124% of GDP in 2020.

In reply to the IMF, the Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs, Mr Rein, said: ‘I don’t think that it’s fair for the International Monetary Fund to wash its hands and throw the dirty water on European shoulders’.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(28 August 2013)

The 3rd review of the 2nd adjustment programme for Greece was concluded in July. It established that Greece's debt dynamics is broadly unchanged compared to December 2012. The debt-to-GDP ratio is forecast to resume a declining path in 2014 and should become lower than 120% by 2021, assuming that the economic adjustment programme continues to be fully implemented. The stress-test scenarios confirm that the debt would perceptibly decline from its current levels in most scenarios. Under a combined negative shock the debt would decline initially, but stabilise at a very high level.

As was stated by the Eurogroup on February 21, 2012, euro area partners are committed to providing adequate support to Greece during the life of the program and beyond until Greece has regained market access, provided that Greece fully complies with the requirements and objectives of the adjustment program. As stated by the Eurogroup in November 2012, any additional measure should be taken ‘… when Greece reaches an annual primary surplus, as envisaged in the current MoU, conditional on full implementation of all conditions contained in the programme …’. The Eurogroup reaffirmed this commitment in December 2012.

Hence, while we do recognise that risks remain, we believe that it is premature to discuss further debt relief for Greece at this stage. By contrast, the focus should be on how to create stronger incentives for structural reforms which are needed to promote economic growth and employment.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009057/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Tεράστια προβλήματα για τους πολίτες που είχαν εκκρεμείς υποθέσεις με τον ΟΕΚ — Περιπτώσεις στην Αχαΐα και στο Πλατύ Ημαθίας

Το Μάρτιο του 2012, με το Μνημόνιο μεταξύ Ελλάδας και Τρόικας επιβλήθηκε, μεταξύ άλλων, και η κατάργηση του Οργανισμού Εργατικής Κατοικίας (ΟΕΚ). Σε προηγούμενες ερωτήσεις μου (P-002348/2012, P-002379/2012) η Επιτροπή απάντησε ρητά ότι «θα τηρηθούν οι υφιστάμενες συμβατικές υποχρεώσεις» και ότι «οι ελληνικές αρχές έχουν συστήσει μια προσωρινή επιτροπή που είναι αρμόδια για τον καθορισμό των κανόνων διευθέτησης των εκκρεμών υποχρεώσεων και δικαιωμάτων καθώς και οποιουδήποτε άλλου νομικού κεκτημένου των δύο καταργηθέντων φορέων».

Όμως, ενάμιση χρόνο μετά, τα προβλήματα που έχουν δημιουργηθεί είναι τεράστια για τους πολίτες που είχαν εκκρεμείς υποθέσεις με τον ΟΕΚ. Αναφέρω ενδεικτικά τις εξής περιπτώσεις:

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Rehn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(26 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Η Επιτροπή γνωρίζει τη δυσχερή οικονομική κατάσταση των νοικοκυριών στην Ελλάδα και τη σημασία της στέγασης για την ευημερία των νοικοκυριών. Η Επιτροπή γνωρίζει ότι κατ' αρχήν οι υφιστάμενες συμβατικές υποχρεώσεις του ΟΕΚ θα εξακολουθούν να τηρούνται ακόμη και εάν δεν αναληφθούν νέες δεσμεύσεις. Η Επιτροπή δεν γνωρίζει τις λεπτομέρειες για τις δραστηριότητες της προσωρινής επιτροπής που είναι αρμόδια για τον καθορισμό των εκκρεμών υποχρεώσεων και δικαιωμάτων, καθώς και οποιουδήποτε άλλου νομικού κεκτημένου ή συμβατικής σχέσης του ΟΕΚ. Ειδικά ερωτήματα σχετικά με τις δραστηριότητες της επιτροπής μπορούν να απευθύνονται στις ελληνικές αρχές.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009057/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Huge problems for citizens with cases pending before the OEK — cases in Achaia and Platy (Imathia)

Under the Memorandum with Greece dated March 2012, the Troika insisted, among other things, on the abolition of the Social Housing Organisation (OEK).The Commission expressly stated, in reply to previous questions by me (P-002348/2012 and P-002379/2012), that ‘existing contractual obligations will be respected’ and that ‘the Greek authorities have set a temporary administrative committee in charge of setting the operational modalities for rules for the settlement of outstanding operational obligations and rights, as well as of any other necessary and vested legal relationship of the two abolished entities’.

However, eighteen months later, huge problems have arisen for citizens with cases pending before the OEK. The following are examples:

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(26 September 2013)

The Commission is aware of the difficult financial situation of households in Greece and of the importance of housing can be for the well-being of households. The Commission is aware of the principle that the existing contractual obligations of OEK would still be respected even if no new commitments would be assumed. The Commission is not aware of the detailed activities carried out by the temporary administrative committee in charge of setting the outstanding operational obligations and rights, as well as of any other necessary and vested legal or contractual relationship of OEK. Specific questions on the activities carried out by the committee can be addressed to the Greek authorities.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009058/13

alla Commissione

Andrea Zanoni (ALDE)

(25 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Allarmante moria di pesci verificatasi nella laguna di Venezia a causa di un possibile inquinamento delle acque

Da circa metà luglio 2013 a Venezia si è iniziato a percepire un odore terribile e l'acqua della laguna ha acquistato un colore marrone, quasi nero (78). In un primo momento il fenomeno si è manifestato all'altezza del ponte della Libertà, il ponte che collega Venezia alla terraferma, poco distante da Porto Marghera. Dalla notte fra venerdì 19 luglio 2013 e sabato 20 luglio 2013 tale fenomeno si è ulteriormente diffuso e sono stati avvistati migliaia di pesci morti galleggianti in alcune aree della laguna centrale. Nella mattinata del 20 luglio 2013 numerosissimi pesci in decomposizione, compresi anguille e granchi, sono apparsi nei canali interni del centro storico della città, incluso il Canal Grande (79). Significativo il fatto che nemmeno i gabbiani mangino questi pesci, benché costituiscano il loro cibo abituale. I pescatori locali, che sono stati i primi ad accorgersi dell'anomalia, dichiarano di non aver mai visto un fenomeno simile (80).

I cittadini veneziani riportano uno spettacolo terrificante, con un odore insopportabile diffuso la mattina del 21 luglio 2013 ed avvistamenti di pesci galleggianti con le interiora esposte. Il 21 luglio, tuttavia, l'acqua della laguna appare abbastanza «pulita» poiché nel frattempo sono raccolte 5 tonnellate di pesce marcio da parte di Veritas (Veneziana energia risorse idriche territorio ambiente servizi S.p.A.), l'azienda erogatrice di servizi ambientali al Comune di Venezia, ma l'odore e il nero dell'acqua restano. Altri 10 quintali di pesce marcio sono raccolti da Veritas il 22 luglio 2013.

Il Comune di Venezia e l'Agenzia regionale per la prevenzione e protezione ambientale del Veneto (ARPAV) hanno invitato la popolazione alla calma, in quanto il fenomeno sarebbe legato a cause naturali: la proliferazione anomala di alghe allogene, dovuta a fattori ambientali quali abbondanti piogge primaverili e caldo, con conseguente anossia (81). La popolazione però è perplessa, vista l'entità del fenomeno, e alcuni cittadini hanno già avviato una raccolta di fondi per commissionare privatamente le analisi di campioni di pesce morto e dell'acqua della laguna (82). Nel frattempo, la Procura della Repubblica di Venezia ha aperto un fascicolo d'inchiesta.

Risposta di Janez Potočnik a nome della Commissione

(18 settembre 2013)

La Commissione non era stata informata della recente moria di pesci a Venezia riferita dall'onorevole deputato. Prende atto dell'iniziativa della Procura veneziana di avviare un'inchiesta sul presente fenomeno e attende l'esito di tale inchiesta per valutare se saranno necessari ulteriori interventi.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009058/13

to the Commission

Andrea Zanoni (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Alarming fish mortality in the Venice lagoon, due to possible water pollution

Since around mid-July 2013 Venice has begun to notice an awful smell and the water of the lagoon has turned a brown colour that is almost black (83). At first, the problem occurred at the Ponte della Libertà, the bridge that connects Venice to the mainland, not far from Porto Marghera. From the night between Friday, 19 July 2013 and Saturday, 20 July 2013, the problem spread further and thousands of dead fish were seen floating in certain areas of the central lagoon. On the morning of 20 July 2013, numerous decaying fish, including eels and crabs, appeared in the internal channels of the city’s historic centre, including the Grand Canal (84). It is significant that not even the seagulls are eating these fish, even though they are their usual food. Local fishermen, who were the first to notice the problem, say they have never seen anything like it. (85)

Venetian citizens have reported a horrific sight, with an overpowering smell which spread throughout the city on the morning of 21 July 2013 and sightings of fish floating with their innards exposed. On 21 July, however, the water of the lagoon appeared to be fairly ‘clean’ because, in the meantime, Veritas (Veneziana energia risorse idriche territorio ambiente servizi S.p.A.) — the company which provides environmental services to the City of Venice — had collected 5 tonnes of rotting fish, but the smell and the black water remained. Another 1000 kg of rotting fish were collected by Veritas on 22 July 2013.

The City of Venice and the Veneto Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Protection (ARPAV) have appealed for calm, since the phenomenon is apparently due to natural causes: the abnormal proliferation of alien algae, due to environmental factors such as abundant spring rains and heat, resulting in anoxia (oxygen deficiency) (86). The locals, however, are puzzled, given the extent of the phenomenon, and some people have already started raising funds in order to privately commission tests on samples of dead fish and on the water of the lagoon (87). Meanwhile, the Public Prosecutor of the Republic of Venice has opened an investigation.

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(18 September 2013)

The Commission has not been informed about this recent fish death incident in Venice. It takes note of the public prosecutor's initiative to launch an investigation into the present incident and will await the results of the investigation before assessing the need for further action.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-009059/13

à Comissão

Inês Cristina Zuber (GUE/NGL)

(25 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Contratação de professores em Portugal

Os dados disponíveis sobre professores contratados indicam-nos que existem 37 565 professores contratados com 4 ou mais anos de serviço e 11 526 com 10 ou mais anos de serviço. Como é sabido, estes professores trabalham ano após ano com vínculos precários, sem certezas em relação à sua contratação após um ano e em condições desfavoráveis em relação aos professores que estão no quadro, nomeadamente no que se refere aos níveis salariais, opções de escolha do horário de trabalho, proteção social, entre outros aspetos.

Esta semana foi anunciado que, no âmbito do concurso nacional externo de contratação de professores, apenas 3 professores conseguiram lugar nos quadros, num universo de 45 431 professores candidatos.

A Diretiva 1999/70/CE de 28 de junho de 1999 estabelece um acordo relativo a contratos de trabalho a termo, tendo estabelecidos princípios de não discriminação (artigo 4.°) e disposições para evitar os abusos (artigo 5.°).

Os números supracitados demonstram que o recrutamento de professores contratados é efetuado para assegurar necessidades permanentes das instituições de ensino.

Assim, pergunto à Comissão que análise faz da situação, nomeadamente à luz da leitura da Diretiva supramencionada.

Resposta dada por László Andor em nome da Comissão

(5 de setembro de 2013)

Remete-se o Senhor Deputado para a resposta da Comissão à pergunta escrita E-1291/2013 (88). A Comissão já enviou uma carta de notificação para cumprir às autoridades portuguesas em 30 de setembro de 2011. E, em 1 de outubro de 2012, foi enviada uma carta de notificação para cumprir complementar, abrangendo outras questões que surgiram durante as investigações dos serviços da Comissão. Os serviços estão a concluir a análise das respostas prestadas pelas autoridades nacionais, bem como o material contido em várias queixas e uma petição. Uma vez concluída a avaliação, serão tomadas as medidas adequadas no quadro das competências da Comissão, a fim de garantir a correta aplicação do direito da UE.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009059/13

to the Commission

Inês Cristina Zuber (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Employment of teachers in Portugal

Available data on contract teachers in Portugal show that 37 565 teachers have been on temporary contracts for four or more years and that 11 526 have been similarly employed for 10 or more years. These teachers work year after year in precarious circumstances, without any certainty that their contracts will be renewed at the end of each year and under less favourable conditions than permanent teachers, particularly with regard to salaries, social protection and being able to choose their working hours, among other aspects.

This week it was announced that only three teachers obtained permanent teaching posts in this year’s national external competition for the admission of teachers, out of a total of 45 431 teachers who applied.

Directive 1999/70/EC of 28 June 1999 establishes an agreement on fixed-term contracts, laying down principles of non-discrimination (Article 4) and provisions to prevent abuse (Article 5).

The figures quoted above show that contract teachers are employed in order to cover permanent needs in the educational system.

How does the Commission view this situation, particularly in light of the abovementioned directive?

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

The Honourable Member is referred to the answer by the Commission to Written Question E-1291/2013 (89). The Commission already sent a letter of formal notice to the Portuguese authorities on 30 September 2011. A supplementary letter of formal notice, covering further issues arising during the Commission services' investigations, was sent on 1 October 2012. The services are completing their analysis of the replies provided by the national authorities together with the material contained in various complaints and a petition. Upon completion of this assessment, the appropriate action will be taken in line with the competence of the Commission in ensuring the correct application of EC law.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-009060/13

à Comissão

Inês Cristina Zuber (GUE/NGL)

(25 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Cortes financeiros na educação em Portugal

Na resposta de 5 de julho dada pela Comissária Vassiliou à pergunta E-005273/2013, é afirmado que «a Comissão considera que há que salvaguardar um nível adequado de investimento na qualidade da educação e da formação, especialmente em tempos de dificuldade económica. E que, no respetivo processo de consolidação orçamental, os Estados-Membros devem privilegiar e, sempre que possível, reforçar o investimento em domínios que contribuem para o crescimento, tais como a educação, a investigação, a inovação e a energia».

No acordo negociado entre o Governo português e a troica para o futuro corte da despesa pública de 4 700 milhões de euros, prevê-se o despedimento de dezenas de milhares de trabalhadores da função pública, entre os quais, previsivelmente, professores e outros funcionários do setor da educação.

Nos últimos dois anos saíram das escolas portuguesas mais de 25 mil professores do ensino básico e secundário, entre aposentações e despedimentos de docentes contratados, resultantes dos cortes na educação acordados entre o governo nacional e a troica. Esses professores não estão a ser substituídos, o que está a provocar um défice na qualidade da educação e a criar difíceis condições para o funcionamento das escolas.

Desta modo, pergunto à Comissão se, na próxima avaliação da troica em Portugal, defenderá mais cortes na área da educação.

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(30 de setembro de 2013)

A Comissão considera a educação um instrumento fundamental que contribui não só para reduzir as desigualdades, mas constitui igualmente o principal fator subjacente a um crescimento económico sustentável a longo prazo.

Segundo diversas fontes internacionais, o rácio aluno/professor nos ensinos primário e secundário em Portugal continua a ser baixo quando comparado com outros países da UE (90), embora os professores portugueses trabalhem praticamente o mesmo número de horas por semana do que a média na UE (91). Além disso, a despesa pública global com a remuneração dos empregados na educação em relação ao rendimento per capita em Portugal continua a ser uma das mais elevadas na UE.

No que respeita aos resultados do sistema de ensino português, tem havido melhorias notáveis, por exemplo nas competências básicas (92) e ao nível da redução do abandono escolar precoce.

Continua a existir no entanto, uma grande margem para introduzir melhorias (93), e o sistema de ensino em Portugal ainda necessita, portanto, de reformas. Os custos devem ser controlados de perto e reforçada a eficiência do conjunto do sistema. No quadro do Programa de Ajustamento Económico, está a ser implementada uma série de reformas essenciais a um ritmo satisfatório.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009060/13

to the Commission

Inês Cristina Zuber (GUE/NGL)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Spending cuts in education in Portugal

In her answer to Written Question E-005273/2013, dated 5 July 2013, Commissioner Vassiliou said that ‘the Commission believes that maintaining an adequate level of investment in quality education and training needs to be safeguarded, especially in times of economic difficulty; and that in conducting fiscal consolidation, Member States should give priority to, and strengthen where possible, investment in growth-friendly areas such as education, research, innovation and energy’.

The agreement reached between the Portuguese Government and the Troika on EUR 4.7 billion in public spending cuts calls for the dismissal of tens of thousands of workers from the public sector, a measure which is likely to include teachers and other education sector employees.

During the last two years, Portuguese schools have lost over 25 000 primary and secondary teachers as a result of retirement and termination of contracts arising from the education cuts agreed between the Portuguese Government and the Troika. These teachers are not being replaced, a situation which is affecting the quality of education and making it difficult for schools to function properly.

I therefore wish to ask the Commission whether it intends, in the context of the Troika’s next review of the situation in Portugal, to call for further cuts in education.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(30 September 2013)

The Commission considers education an essential instrument which not only contributes to a reduction in inequalities but is also a main factor behind sustainable economic long-term growth.

According to information from several international data sources, the student/teacher ratio in primary and secondary schools in Portugal continues to be low when compared with other EU countries (94), while teachers in Portugal teach a similar amount of hours per week than, on average, in the EU. (95) In addition, overall public expenditure on compensation of employees in education relative to per capita income in Portugal is still one of the highest in the EU.

With regard to the outcomes of the Portuguese education system, there have been remarkable improvements, for example in basic skills (96) and in the reduction of early school leaving.

However, the scope for improvement remains large (97), and the education system in Portugal therefore continues to be in need of reform. Costs must be closely controlled and the efficiency of the overall system needs to be increased. In the framework of the economic adjustment programme, a number of crucial reforms are being implemented at a satisfactory pace.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009061/13

an die Kommission

Ismail Ertug (S&D)

(25. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Überarbeitung der TSI Lärm

Im Rahmen der aktuellen Überarbeitung der TSI Lärm hat die Europäische Eisenbahnagentur im Februar 2013 einen ersten Entwurf veröffentlicht.

Antwort von Herrn Kallas im Namen der Kommission

(10. September 2013)

„Lärm“) unterrichtet. Sie wird die diesbezügliche Empfehlung der Agentur aber erst dann bewerten, wenn sie offiziell vorgelegt wurde.

„Lärm“ auf bereits existierende Fahrzeuge ist bisher noch nicht behandelt worden. Bei der Studie und der aktuellen Überarbeitung der TSI „Lärm“ handelt es sich um zwei verschiedene Vorgänge.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009061/13

to the Commission

Ismail Ertug (S&D)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Revision of the TSI Noise

In February 2013, the European Railway Agency presented a first draft in the context of the current revision of the TSI Noise.

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(10 September 2013)

1. The Commission is aware of the ongoing work of the European Railway Agency on the future revision of the technical specification for interoperability relating to noise (TSI Noise) but will assess the Agency's recommendation on this subject once it is officially submitted.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009062/13

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR) e Susy De Martini (ECR)

(25 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Esportazione di medici cubani

Numerosi organi di stampa riportano che, in occasione della «Confederation Cup» di calcio svoltasi nei giorni scorsi in Brasile, il governo brasiliano abbia velocizzato i negoziati con la dittatura cubana per l'invio di 6 000 medici nelle zone svantaggiate del paese, garantendo in cambio 176 milioni di dollari ai fratelli Castro per l'ammodernamento delle infrastrutture dell'isola. Il Brasile infatti non ha un numero sufficiente di medici e invia quelli cubani dove i dottori brasiliani non vogliono andare, nelle aree più sperdute del paese. Allo stesso tempo, però, i medici brasiliani hanno protestato contro questa decisione, parallelamente alle varie proteste avvenute proprio in concomitanza con la manifestazione sportiva che lamentavano il malgoverno della Presidente Rousseff. A Cuba invece i medici migliori vengono inviati all'estero, come si è già verificato in numerosi altri casi, lasciando la popolazione nelle mani di medici inesperti o giovani praticanti e mettendo in serio pericolo la vita dei cittadini cubani.

Può il Vicepresidente della Commissione/Alto Rappresentante rispondere ai seguenti quesiti:

Risposta dell’Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente Catherine Ashton a nome della Commissione

(20 settembre 2013)

L’UE monitora regolarmente la situazione politica, economica e sociale di Cuba, attraverso la sua delegazione a L’Avana.

Nessun fondo dell’UE concesso a Cuba e al Brasile è stato utilizzato per stringere accordi volti a inviare medici all’estero. Ci risulta inoltre che i negoziati tra Brasile e Cuba per distaccare medici cubani in regioni remote del Brasile non siano sfociati in un accordo.

La Commissione sostiene gli Stati membri nell’attuazione del codice globale di condotta per il reclutamento internazionale di personale sanitario dell’OMS (WHO Global Code of Practice for the International recruitment of Health Personnel), che invita gli Stati membri dell’organizzazione (tra cui Cuba e il Brasile) ad astenersi da politiche attive di assunzione di personale sanitario proveniente da paesi che devono gestire gravi carenze di lavoratori in questo settore.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009062/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR) and Susy De Martini (ECR)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Importing doctors from Cuba

According to media reports, in the run-up to the Confederations Cup held recently in Brazil the Brazilian Government speeded up negotiations with the Cuban dictatorship on sending 6000 Cuban doctors to disadvantaged parts of Brazil, with, in exchange, USD 176 million being handed over to the Castro brothers for infrastructure modernisation projects in Cuba. Brazil does not have enough doctors, and the idea was to send to the Cuban doctors to the most remote parts of the country, where Brazilian doctors refuse to go. Brazil’s doctors took issue with this decision, joining their voices to the cacophony of protest against President Rousseff's poor governance that surrounded the holding of the Confederations Cup in the country.

Given that, as a result of Cuba’s best doctors being sent abroad (similar arrangements have been made with other countries in the past), people on the island are left in the hands of inexperienced or trainee doctors, which places their lives at risk, will the Vice-President/High Representative say whether:

Answer given by High-Representative/Vice-President Ashton on behalf of the Commission

(20 September 2013)

The EU regularly monitors the political, economic and social situation in Cuba via its Delegation in Havana.

No EU funds provided to Cuba and Brazil have been used for arrangements concerning the sending abroad of doctors. To the best of our knowledge, the negotiations between Brazil and Cuba on the posting of Cuban doctors in remote regions of Brazil did not result in an agreement.

The Commission supports EU Member States in implementing the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Code of Practice for the international recruitment of health personnel that calls upon WHO Members States — which include both Cuba and Brazil — to discourage active recruitment of health personnel from countries facing critical shortages of health workers.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009063/13

alla Commissione

Roberta Angelilli (PPE)

(25 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Chiusura del traffico di via dei Fori Imperiali: possibile violazione della normativa sugli appalti pubblici

L'amministrazione comunale di Roma Capitale nei giorni scorsi ha dato avvio alle procedure relative alla chiusura del traffico dell'arteria di via dei Fori Imperiali per promuovere la pedonalizzazione dell' area circostante.

Tale intervento impone il dirottamento verso altre arterie di un ingente traffico privato, comportando l'estensione della zona a traffico limitato, con relative opere ed interventi di viabilità, con un costo stimato tra i 1,5 e 2 milioni di euro.

La stessa amministrazione, tramite la Conferenza dei Servizi, ha individuato in Roma Metropolitane, per il tramite di METRO C, il soggetto attuatore di tale progetto.

Tale decisione, confermata dalla stessa Roma Metropolitane, e i relativi costi saranno imputati alla voce «cantierizzazioni» della METRO C, senza però alcun tipo di programmazione economica preventiva, in quanto tale decisione dell'amministrazione comunale non era presente tra le opere previste nell'ambito della cantierizzazione.

Ciò comporterà un aumento dei costi relativi alla METRO C, infrastruttura strategica cofinanziata dal governo nazionale tramite fondi CIPE, oltre che una variazione d'uso di fondi già stanziati e assegnati, il cui ammontare è allo stato totalmente provvisorio.

Alla luce di quanto precede, può la Commissione rispondere ai seguenti quesiti:

Risposta di Michel Barnier a nome della Commissione

(9 settembre 2013)

La Commissione ringrazia l'Onorevole deputata per averle segnalato l'eventualità che il progetto del Comune di Roma Capitale volto alla pedonalizzazione di Via dei Fori imperiali non sia compatibile con le norme dell'UE sugli appalti pubblici.

Sulla scorta delle limitate informazioni comunicate dall'Onorevole deputata, la Commissione non è in grado di stabilire la fondatezza dei timori manifestati in tal senso. Si rilevi al riguardo che la direttiva 2004/18/CE relativa al coordinamento delle procedure di aggiudicazione degli appalti pubblici si applica esclusivamente agli appalti di lavori di valore superiore a 5 milioni di euro. Per gli appalti che non raggiungono tale soglia, come il progetto in questione, i principi generali di trasparenza e trattamento equo risultanti dal TFUE si applicano laddove sia dimostrato che l'appalto presenta un interesse transfrontaliero.

Poiché, stante alle informazioni comunicate dall'Onorevole deputata, il progetto non sembra coinvolgere fondi dell'UE, spetta all'amministrazione aggiudicatrice e alle competenti autorità nazionali valutare tutti gli aspetti inerenti alle implicazioni finanziarie del progetto a fronte dei principi di efficacia, efficienza ed economicità.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009063/13

to the Commission

Roberta Angelilli (PPE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Closure to traffic of Via dei Fori Imperiali: possible infringement of public procurement legislation

Rome City Council recently launched a procedure to close to traffic an arterial road in the capital — the Via dei Fori Imperiali — with a view to pedestrianising the surrounding area.

This will force very large numbers of private vehicles onto other arterial roads and involve the extension of the ‘restricted traffic zone’. The cost of the road works and other operations has been put at between EUR 1.5 million and EUR 2 million.

Rome City Council has given Roma Metropolitane the responsibility for running the project, and the work is to be carried out by the METRO C firm.

This arrangement has been confirmed by Roma Metropolitane, and the costs involved will be charged to the budget for the METRO C line, despite the fact that the project was not included among the works initially planned.

Not only will this will entail higher costs for METRO C, a strategic infrastructure project which is being co‐financed by the national government with CIPE (Interministerial Committee for Economic Planning) funding, but it will also involve a change in the use of funds which have already been earmarked and allocated, although the precise amount involved is not yet clear.

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(9 September 2013)

The Commission thanks the Honourable Member for drawing its attention to possible concerns related to the compatibility of the Rome city council’s project to pedestrianize Via dei Fori Imperiali with EU rules on public procurement.

On the basis of the limited information provided by the Honourable Member, the Commission cannot establish whether the award of the project might raise such concerns. In this regard, it has to be noted that directive 2004/18/EC on the coordination of procedures for the award of public contracts applies only to works contracts with a value higher than EUR 5 million. For works contracts below this threshold, such as the one at stake, the general principles deriving from the TFEU of transparency and equal treatment apply if it can be proved that the contract has a certain cross-border interest.

Since according to the information provided by the Honourable Member no EU funds seem to be involved in the project, all aspects related to its financial implications in relation with the principles of effectiveness, efficiency and value for money lie within the remit of the contracting authority and the responsible national authorities.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009064/13

alla Commissione

Andrea Zanoni (ALDE)

(25 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Possibile sottovalutazione dell'impatto ambientale del progetto di una discarica per rifiuti speciali a Lughignano di Casale sul Sile (TV)

La Commissione VIA (Valutazione Impatto Ambientale) della Regione del Veneto, organo competente per la consultazione in materia di adempimenti ambientali, in data 24.4.2013 ha espresso parere favorevole in merito al progetto di realizzazione di una discarica per rifiuti speciali a Lughignano di Casale sul Sile (TV) (100). Il progetto, presentato da un consorzio di imprese, riguarda la realizzazione di un impianto per lo smaltimento dei rifiuti prodotti dalle stesse nei rispettivi impianti produttivi e di recupero; la capacità di stoccaggio complessiva prevista è pari a circa 315 000 metri cubi di rifiuti, equivalenti a 320 000 tonnellate.

La valutazione dell'impatto ambientale sulla base della quale è stato formulato il parere della Commissione VIA, tuttavia, risalirebbe al 2006, e si baserebbe sul S.I.A. (Studio Impatto Ambientale) presentato dal consorzio proponente nel 2005. Il parere, pertanto, avrebbe avuto a oggetto il solo progetto preliminare, che ha successivamente subìto numerose modifiche e integrazioni. Secondo la giurisprudenza della Corte di giustizia CE, qualora il diritto nazionale dello Stato membro preveda che il procedimento di autorizzazione di un progetto si articoli in più fasi, nel caso in cui la valutazione dell'impatto ambientale possa essere effettuata esclusivamente nel corso della fase iniziale del procedimento, e non nel corso di una fase successiva, vi sarebbe contrasto con quanto previsto dalla direttiva «VIA» 85/337/CEE (ora 2011/92/UE) (101).

L'impianto, inoltre, verrà realizzato a ridosso del Parco naturale regionale del fiume Sile, area tutelata quale SIC (ai sensi della direttiva «Habitat» 92/43/CEE) e ZPS (ai sensi della direttiva «Uccelli» 2009/147/CE); ciononostante, le pesanti interferenze ecosistemiche che l'opera potrebbe produrre non sono state tenute in considerazione alcuna nella formulazione di detto parere, nonostante i rilievi puntualmente formulati dall'«Ente Parco naturale regionale del fiume Sile» (102).

Alla luce di quanto precede, la Commissione non ritiene opportuno contattare le autorità competenti per verificare la regolarità della consultazione ambientale svoltasi, presumibilmente affetta da violazioni della normativa ambientale dell'UE comportanti la sottostima delle conseguenze negative sull'ambiente che l'impianto potrebbe andare a produrre?

Risposta di Janez Potočnik a nome della Commissione

(18 settembre 2013)

Sulla base delle informazioni trasmesse dall’onorevole deputato e in assenza di prove chiare e sostanziali della presenza di errori nelle valutazioni ambientali svolte dalle autorità competenti, la Commissione non è stata in grado di riscontare nessuna violazione delle disposizioni della direttiva 2011/92/UE (103) concernente la valutazione dell’impatto ambientale di determinati progetti pubblici e privati (direttiva VIA), della direttiva Habitat (104) e della direttiva Uccelli (105), poiché non è stata fornita alcuna prova di una modifica sostanziale del progetto che comportasse effetti negativi sull’ambiente. La Commissione potrà svolgere ulteriori accertamenti nel caso in cui riceverà prove concrete di un’eventuale violazione della normativa UE in materia ambientale.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009064/13

to the Commission

Andrea Zanoni (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Possible underestimation of the environmental impact of a project for a special waste disposal facility at Lughignano di Casale sul Sile (TV)

On 24 April 2013, the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) Committee of the Veneto Region, the body responsible for consultation on environmental compliance, expressed its approval of a project to create a disposal facility for special (hazardous) waste in Lughignano di Casale sul Sile (TV) (106). The project, submitted by a consortium of companies, concerns the construction of a facility for the disposal of waste produced by those companies in their respective factories and recovery plants. The overall storage capacity is expected to be approximately 315 000 cubic metres of waste, equivalent to 320 000 tonnes.

The environmental impact assessment on the basis of which the EIA Committee's opinion was delivered, however, dates back to 2006 and is allegedly based on the EIS (Environmental Impact Study) submitted by the consortium in 2005. The opinion, therefore, concerned only the preliminary project, which subsequently underwent numerous changes and additions. According to the case law of the EU Court of Justice, where the national law of a Member State provides that the procedure for authorising a project may be carried out in several stages, if the environmental impact assessment can be conducted only during the initial phase of the proceedings, and not at a later stage, this would be in breach of the provisions of the EIA Directive 85/337/EEC (now 2011/92/EU) (107).

The waste disposal facility, moreover, will be built near the River Sile Regional Natural Park, a protected area ‐– a site of Community importance (SCI) under the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC and an SPA (special protection area) under the Birds Directive 2009/147/EC. Despite that, the substantial impact that the work could have on the ecosystem has not been taken into account at all in the wording of the opinion, even though this issue was specifically pointed out by the River Sile Regional Natural Park Authority (108).

In the light of the above, should the Commission not contact the relevant authorities to ascertain whether the environmental consultation was carried out properly, since it appears to have been in breach of EU environmental law in that it may have underestimated the adverse impact that the waste disposal plant could have on the environment?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(18 September 2013)

From the information provided by the Honourable Member, and in the absence of clear and substantial evidence of error within the environmental assessments carried out by the competent Authorities, the Commission could not identify a breach of the directive 2011/92/EU (109) on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (EIA), Habitats Directive (110) and Birds Directive (111), as no evidence of a substantial change of the project, having significant adverse effects on the environment, has been provided. This would not preclude the Commission services investigating the matter further should they receive concrete evidence of a possible breach of the EU environmental law.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-009065/13

aan de Commissie

Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE)

(25 juli 2013)

Betreft: Opslag en financiële spelers

In februari 2013 gaf de Commissie in haar antwoord op indieners vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord P‐011351/2012 (112) aan op de hoogte te zijn van de bestaande opslagpraktijken waarbij eigenaars van opslaghuizen, inclusief financiële spelers, blijkbaar kunstmatige schaarste creëren voor de levering van metalen om hun winsten te maximaliseren.

Ziet de Commissie potentiële problemen voor de financiële spelers die de opslag en het vervoer van grondstoffen controleren? Zo ja, kan zij aangeven welke problemen kunnen ontstaan?

Is de Commissie van mening dat financiële spelers door opslaghuizen te controleren belangrijke informatie verkrijgen over de markt, die zij bij de handel in grondstoffen kunnen gebruiken?

Acht de Commissie het belangrijk dat banken die actief zijn op grondstofmarkten, bijvoorbeeld de aluminiummarkt, hun opslagfaciliteiten duidelijk gescheiden houden van hun bankactiviteiten? Zo ja, hoe zorgt de Commissie ervoor dat banken de verschillende activiteiten gescheiden houden?

In de VS wordt momenteel een uitvoerig debat gevoerd over de rol van financiële spelers op de grondstofmarkt. Werkt de Commissie met de Amerikaanse regelgevingsinstanties samen om de beste manier te vinden om de problemen in verband met opslag aan te pakken?

Onlangs gaf de New York Times aan dat de door opslagpraktijken kunstmatig opgedreven aluminiumprijzen de Amerikaanse consumenten de laatste 3 jaar meer dan 5 miljard USD hebben gekost (113). Kan de Commissie een raming geven van de kostenstijgingen die er kunnen zijn voor de Europese industrie? Zo nee, waarom niet?

Antwoord van de heer Almunia namens de Commissie

(16 september 2013)

De Commissie is bekend met de berichten waarover het geachte Parlementslid het in zijn vraag heeft. De Commissie geeft zich rekenschap van het belang van de grondstoffenmarkten voor de economie als geheel. Zij volgt dan ook het debat dat wordt gevoerd over het belangenconflict dat kan ontstaan wanneer financiële spelers de opslag en het vervoer van grondstoffen controleren.

De Commissie werkt regelmatig samen met de toezichthouders in de VS en in andere jurisdicties rond mededingingskwesties die verband houden met de industrie in het algemeen en de grondstoffenmarkten in het bijzonder. Om echter het rechtmatige belang van derden en de integriteit van haar monitoring‐ en handhavingsactiviteiten te beschermen, acht de Commissie het in dit stadium niet passend zich uit te laten over maatregelen die in Europa of de in de Verenigde Staten zouden kunnen worden genomen.

De Commissie is momenteel nog niet in staat om in te schatten hoe groot de eventuele schade is die de activiteiten van financiële spelers hebben veroorzaakt, of een raming te geven van de mogelijke kostenstijgingen die daardoor voor de Europese industrie zijn ontstaan. Wel wil de Commissie hier beklemtonen dat zij deze kwesties zeer ernstig neemt en dat zij niet zal aarzelen om passende maatregelen te nemen wanneer zij denkt dat de mededingingsregels zijn geschonden.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009065/13

to the Commission

Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE)

(25 July 2013)

Subject: Warehousing and financial players

In February 2013 the Commission indicated (114) in its answer to my written question (P-011351/2012) that it was aware of the current warehousing practices in which owners of warehouses, including financial players, seem to be creating artificial shortages in the supply of metals in order to maximise their profits.

Does the Commission see any potential problems for financial players controlling the storage and shipment of commodities? If so, could the Commission indicate what problems could arise?

Does the Commission believe that by controlling warehouses financial players gain important market intelligence, which they can use when trading commodities?

Does the Commission believe that it is important that banks operating in commodities markets such as the aluminium market keep their storage facilities well separated from their banking activities? If so, how does the Commission ensure that banks keep these different practices at arm’s length?

In the US there is currently a wide-ranging debate on the role of financial players in the commodity market. Does the Commission cooperate with US regulators in order to identify the best ways of addressing the problems related to warehousing?

Recently the New York Times indicated that inflated aluminium prices resulting from warehousing practices have cost American consumers more than USD 5 billion over the last 3 years (115). Can the Commission provide an estimate of possible cost increases to European industry? If not, why not?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

The Commission is aware of the reports referred to in the Honourable Member's question. The Commission is mindful of the importance of the commodity markets for the economy as a whole and is conscious of the debate surrounding the alleged conflict of interest brought about when financial players control the storage and shipment of commodities.

The Commission regularly cooperates with US regulators and with regulators from other jurisdictions regarding antitrust matters relating to all industries and to the commodity markets in particular. However, in order to protect the legitimate interest of third parties and the integrity of its monitoring and enforcement activities, the Commission believes that it would not at this stage be appropriate to comment on any action that might be taken in either Europe or the United States.

The Commission is not at this stage in a position to judge whether any harm has been caused by the activities of financial players or to estimate any potential cost increases for European industry. Nonetheless, the Commission would stress that it takes these issues extremely seriously and will not hesitate to take appropriate action if it believes that the antitrust rules may have been infringed.

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-009108/13

au Conseil

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(26 juillet 2013)

Objet: Cybermilitants condamnés à 10 ans de prison

Sept cybermilitants saoudiens ont été condamnés à des peines de 5 à 10 ans de prison pour «incitation à des manifestations» sur facebook.

Réponse

(30 septembre 2013)

Le Conseil a été informé du cas soulevé par l'Honorable Parlementaire concernant le Royaume d'Arabie saoudite.

La Haute Représentante et ses services continueront de recourir, en toute occasion, à l'ensemble des outils dont ils disposent pour évoquer régulièrement la question des Droits de l'homme et des libertés fondamentales, en public ou non, dans le cadre de leurs contacts avec les autorités saoudiennes.

En l'absence d'accord bilatéral entre l'UE et le Royaume d'Arabie saoudite et donc de dialogue politique bilatéral au niveau institutionnel avec ce pays sur le thème des Droits de l'homme, l'UE continuera d'évoquer ces questions avec ses interlocuteurs saoudiens par tous les moyens dont elle dispose.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009108/13

to the Council

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(26 July 2013)

Subject: Cyber activists sentenced to 10 years in prison

Seven Saudi Arabian cyber activists have been sentenced to between five and 10 years in prison for ‘inciting protests’ on Facebook.

Reply

(30 September 2013)

The Council is aware of the case raised by the Honourable Member of the European Parliament with regard to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

The High Representative and her services will continue to use the full range of opportunities and instruments available to raise human rights and fundamental freedoms regularly both in public and outside the public eye in their contacts with Saudi authorities.

While there are currently no bilateral agreements between the EU and the KSA and there is not therefore any institutional bilateral political dialogue on human rights with the KSA, the EU will continue to raise these issues with its Saudi interlocutors, making full use of the opportunities at its disposal.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009109/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(26 July 2013)

Subject: Meeting between Commissioner Barnier and Gerry Grimstone

We note with interest that on 21 February 2013 Commissioner Barnier met formally with Gerry Grimstone, chairman of TheCityUK.

Will the Commission confirm whether minutes of this meeting were taken, and disclose the contents of those minutes in full? If not, why not? If the Commission is unwilling or unable to disclose the minutes themselves, can it state the purpose of the meeting, summarise all topics discussed and decisions taken or agreed either at or as a result of the meeting?

Please confirm whether Commissioner Barnier and Mr Grimstone speak on the telephone or exchange emails or other correspondence, and state the frequency and duration of the calls or correspondence. On what other occasions have they met whilst Commissioner Barnier has held his office? In any of the correspondence or meetings between them (or between their respective offices), is there discussion of: a) audit-related matters (in particular, but not limited to, mandatory auditor rotation and provision of non-audit services); b) the activities or future activities of TheCityUK; c) the timing of announcements or press releases by or on behalf of the Commission.

Please confirm whether the Commission provides TheCityUK with any direct or indirect funding or assistance.

Please disclose any direct or indirect relationship or interaction between the Commission and the directors or officers of Standard Life within the last two years.

Please confirm whether the Commission (or to its knowledge any EU institution) currently pays anything directly (or indirectly) or will do so in the future (e.g. pensions) to any of the directors of TheCityUK, and if so, please disclose the names of the recipients. For your ease of reference, we understand the directors of TheCityUK to be: Gerry Grimstone, Mark Boleat, Chris Cummings, Alan Houmann, Sir Andrew Cahn, Rachel Lomax, Sushill Saluja, Robert Gray, Sir Thomas Harris, Sean McGovern, Jeremy Wilson, Gary Campkin, Dan Torjussen-Proctor, Howard Miller, Juliet Carey, Marcus Scott, Kit Malthouse, Nick Sandall, Peter Mann, Nick Studer, Doug Barrow, Craig Donaldson, Lindsay J’Afrai-Pak, and Robert Elliott.

Question for written answer P-011704/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(15 October 2013)

Subject: Failure to answer question on EU Funding of UK NGOs

On 26 July 2013 I asked parliamentary Question E-009109/13 on EU funding of UK NGOs, with particular reference to a meeting between Commissioner Barnier and the chairman of TheCityUK on 21 February 2013.

The above parliamentary question was tabled under and in accordance with Rule 117, but I have not received a reply within the six weeks required by paragraph 4 of that rule.

I recognise that four weeks of August have intervened, but it is now eleven weeks since my question was received by the Commission and there is still not a word of response. Please explain the delay and the failure of your office to answer on the points I set out therein.

What should we infer from your silence?

Are you afraid of transparency being applied to your meetings with UK non-governmental organisations?

Do you hope to delay an answer for sufficient time that you are out of office before I receive a reply?

Do you accept that I can properly expect an answer on each and every one of my points, and not delay, obfuscation and avoidance?

Joint answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(15 November 2013)

Commissioner Barnier met Mr Grimstone on 21 February 2013. On the same day, Mr Grimstone also met Commissioner De Gucht. Both meetings were at Mr Grimstone’s request as the newly appointed chairman of TheCityUK. As the Commissioners exchanged general considerations with Mr Grimstone, no formal minutes were taken of either meeting.

Commissioner Barnier and Mr Grimstone discussed the Commission’s financial regulatory initiatives and the legislative measures announced by the Commission. Commissioner Barnier and Mr Grimstone have had no further contact.

Commissioner Barnier has not been in contact with any of the other people mentioned. There have, however, been meetings between Commission staff, Cabinet members and Standard Life representatives. For example, on 20 June 2013, a meeting took place between DG Internal Market staff, Mr Singh, Chief Risk Officer and Mr Porteous, Head of Solvency 2 Regulatory Development to discuss Solvency 2. A Member of Commissioner Barnier’s Cabinet met Mr Porteous on 25 September 2013 to discuss the latest developments with regard to Solvency 2 and the Omnibus 2 negotiations, and Vice-President Reding met David Nish, Chief Executive of Standard Life on 24 April 2013, during a Roundtable discussion with members of the Association of British Insurers. A Standard Life representative is a member of DG Justice's Insurance Contract Law Expert Group. She participates in meetings and makes observations on relevant documents. In line with the Commission’s rules and procedures, this expert was reimbursed expenses for attending a meeting on 17 April 2013.

The Commission does not currently pay anything to the individuals mentioned by the Honourable Member. Two of them have, in the past, held temporary positions within the Commission. They do not have any pension rights from the Commission.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009110/13

an die Kommission

Jo Leinen (S&D), Chris Davies (ALDE), Bas Eickhout (Verts/ALE), Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE), Sabine Wils (GUE/NGL) und Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Bau illegaler Kraftwerke in Opole, Polen (Vertragsverletzungsverfahren gegen Polen aufgrund von Verzögerungen bei der Umsetzung der Richtlinie 2009/31/EG)

(CCS-Fähigkeit) gemäß Artikel 33 der Richtlinie bewertet haben?

Antwort von Frau Hedegaard im Namen der Kommission

(25. September 2013)

1./2. Im Juli 2011 hat die Kommission in der Tat Vertragsverletzungsverfahren wegen Nichtmitteilung der nationalen Umsetzungsmaßnahmen für die CCS‐Richtlinie (116) gegen Polen und 25 weitere Mitgliedstaaten eingeleitet. Nach vollständiger Mitteilung der Umsetzungsmaßnahmen konnten neun Fälle inzwischen abgeschlossen werden, während andere Fälle, in denen die Umsetzungsmaßnahmen bis Juli 2013 mitgeteilt wurden, derzeit von der Kommission noch auf Vollständigkeit überprüft werden. Der polnischen Regierung wurde bisher noch keine mit Gründen versehene Stellungnahme wegen Polens Verletzung der CCS-Richtlinie zugeleitet. Die Kommission ist nicht in der Lage, weitere Einzelheiten ihres Austauschs mit den Mitgliedstaaten über laufende Vertragsverletzungsverfahren bekanntzugeben (117).

3./5. Bei der Kommission ist diesbezüglich eine Beschwerde eingegangen, und sie trägt derzeit Informationen zusammen, um den Sachverhalt und die Rechtsvorschriften, die die zwei geplanten neuen Feuerungsanlagen des Kraftwerks in Opole betreffen, zu klären.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-009110/13

aan de Commissie

Jo Leinen (S&D), Chris Davies (ALDE), Bas Eickhout (Verts/ALE), Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE), Sabine Wils (GUE/NGL) en Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE)

(29 juli 2013)

Betreft: Bouw van een illegale energiecentrale in Opole, Polen (inbreukprocedure tegen Polen wegens vertraging bij de omzetting van Richtlijn 2009/31/EG)

(„CCS-klaar”), conform de vereiste in artikel 33 van de richtlijn?

Antwoord van mevrouw Hedegaard namens de Commissie

(25 september 2013)

1./2. In juli 2011 heeft de Commissie inderdaad een inbreukprocedures tegen Polen en 25 andere lidstaten ingeleid wegens niet-mededeling van nationale maatregelen tot omzetting van de CCS-richtlijn (119). Tot nu toe werden negen zaken afgesloten omdat er mededeling van de volledige omzettingsmaatregelen had plaatsgevonden, terwijl de Commissie in de andere zaken, voor zover de omzettingmaatregelen zijn meegedeeld tot juni 2013, momenteel de volledigheid ervan controleert. Er is bij de Poolse regering nog geen met redenen omkleed advies ingediend in verband met de inbreuk van dat land op de CCS-richtlijn. De Commissie kan geen nadere details verstrekken over haar contacten met de lidstaten over lopende inbreukprocedures. (120)

3./5. De Commissie heeft een klacht over deze kwestie ontvangen en verzamelt nu feitelijke en juridische informatie over de zaak van de geplande twee nieuwe units in de energiecentrale van Opole.

(Suomenkielinen versio)

Kirjallisesti vastattava kysymys E-009110/13

komissiolle

Jo Leinen (S&D), Chris Davies (ALDE), Bas Eickhout (Verts/ALE), Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE), Sabine Wils (GUE/NGL) ja Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE)

(29. heinäkuuta 2013)

Aihe: Laittoman voimalan rakentaminen Opoleen Puolaan (rikkomusmenettely Puolaa vastaan direktiivin 2009/31/EY täytäntöönpanon viivästymisestä )

toiminnanharjoittaja on arvioinut, onko Opolen voimalan suunnitelluissa kahdessa uudessa yksikössä, joiden kummankin sähköntuotantokapasiteetti on 900 MW, valmiudet ympäristön kannalta turvalliseen hiilidioksidin talteenottoon ja geologiseen varastointiin (CCS-valmius) direktiivin 33 artiklan vaatimusten mukaisesti?

Connie Hedegaardin komission puolesta antama vastaus

(25. syyskuuta 2013)

1./2. Komissio todellakin käynnisti heinäkuussa 2011 rikkomismenettelyt Puolaa ja 25:tä muuta jäsenvaltiota vastaan, jotka eivät olleet ilmoittaneet kansallisista toimenpiteistä CCS-direktiivin (122) täytäntöönpanemiseksi. Tähän mennessä 9 näistä menettelyistä on päätetty, koska niiden osalta on ilmoitettu täytäntöönpanotoimenpiteet täysimääräisesti. Muiden osalta komissio suorittaa parhaillaan heinäkuuhun 2013 mennessä ilmoitettujen täytäntöönpanotoimenpiteiden täydellisyystarkastusta. Puolalle ei ole vielä osoitettu CCS-direktiivin rikkomisen vuoksi perusteltua lausuntoa. Komissio ei voi antaa enempää tietoa yhteydenpidostaan niiden jäsenvaltioiden kanssa, joita koskevat rikkomismenettelyt ovat kesken (123).

3./5.Komissio on vastaanottanut asiaa koskevan valituksen ja kerää parhaillaan tietoja Opolen voimalaan suunniteltuja kahta yksikköä koskevista seikoista ja lainsäädännöstä.

4.EU-direktiivit on saatettava osaksi kansallista lainsäädäntöä säädetyssä määräajassa. Tämän tekemättä jättäminen ei vapauta jäsenvaltioita ja niiden viranomaisia velvollisuudesta soveltaa direktiivejä.

6.Komissio ei ole tietoinen muista direktiivin 2001/80/EY 9 a artiklan (124) vastaisista mahdollisesti suunnitelluista tai käynnissä olevista polttolaitosten rakennustöistä. Kyseisen artiklan mukaan jäsenvaltioiden on varmistettava, että kaikkien sellaisten polttolaitosten toiminnanharjoittajat, joiden nimellinen sähköntuotantoteho on vähintään 300 megawattia, ovat arvioineet hiilidioksidin talteenoton jälkiasentamisen tekniset ja taloudelliset edellytykset. Jos arvioinnin tulos on myönteinen, hiilidioksidin talteenottoon ja paineistukseen tarvittaville laitteille on varattava sopiva tila laitosalueella.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009110/13

to the Commission

Jo Leinen (S&D), Chris Davies (ALDE), Bas Eickhout (Verts/ALE), Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE), Sabine Wils (GUE/NGL) and Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Construction of illegal power plant in Opole, Poland (infringement proceedings against Poland for delay in the transposition of Directive 2009/31/EC)

(CCS-ready), as required by Article 33 of the directive?

Answer given by Ms Hedegaard on behalf of the Commission

(25 September 2013)

1./2. In July 2011 the Commission did indeed launch infringement cases for non-communication of national measures transposing the CCS Directive (125) against Poland and 25 other Member States. While 9 cases were closed to date due to notification of complete transposing measures, for other cases, where the transposition measures have been notified until July 2013, the Commission is currently performing the completeness check. A reasoned opinion has not been yet submitted to the Polish Government in relation to Poland's infringement of the CCS Directive. The Commission is not in a position to provide further details of its communication with the Member States on infringement proceedings which are ongoing. (126)

3./5.The Commission has received a complaint on this issue and is currently gathering information to determine facts and law concerning the case of the planned two new units at the Opole power plant.

4.EU Directives must be transposed by the deadline for their transposition. Member States and their competent authorities are not relieved from the obligation to apply them in case of failure to transpose them.

6.The Commission is not aware of any planned or ongoing construction of other combustion plants that do not comply with Article 9a of Directive 2001/80/EC  (127). According to that Article the Member States need to ensure that operators of combustion plants with a rated electrical output of 300 MW or more have assessed technical and economic conditions necessary to retrofit for CO2 capture. Where the assessment is positive, suitable space on the installation site for the equipment necessary to capture and compress CO2 has to be set aside.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009111/13

to the Commission

Seán Kelly (PPE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Common charger for small electronic devices

Could the Commission outline what progress, if any, has been made in harmonising charging devices for small electronic goods — such as mobile phones, digital cameras and tablets — since the expiry in 2012 of its Memorandum of Understanding with mobile phone manufacturing companies?

Could the Commission clarify the current position of these mobile phone manufacturing companies with regard to this initiative, and could it confirm whether or not they will continue to work with the Commission to achieve a common charger for small electronic devices?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(6 September 2013)

The latest progress report provided by the signatories of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) has shown that more than 90% of the new devices put on the market by the end of 2012 supported the common charging capability.

The voluntary agreement based on the micro-USB technology has proved successful in delivering benefits for both industry and citizens without any particular need for stricter legislation.

The Commission has launched a study to evaluate the results achieved with the MoU and to consider options for appropriate follow-up activity including voluntary agreement and legislation. The study will take into account technological innovations and will consider a possible extension of the harmonisation of chargers initiative to new categories of products, such as the new generation of mobile phones and other small portable electronic devices like digital cameras, tablets and music players.

The outcomes of the study will be available by the first semester of 2014.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009112/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ I

Thank you for your answer to Written Question E-002638/2013 (EUROGENFOR X) in which you referred to ‘the competent Commission services’ and the security measures that they provide, which ‘can range from discreet monitoring actions up to a more visible close protection scheme’. Please confirm the name of those competent Commission services, and confirm and explain in respect of each such service:

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(23 September 2013)

The Security Service of the European Commission was established on the 6th October 1958 by Regulation (Euratom) n° 3, implementing Article 24 of the Treaty, establishing the European Atomic Energy Community and is nowadays a directorate of the Commission's DG for Human Resources and Security.

Its mandate is defined in Commission Decision C(94)2129 of 8th September 1994 and it develops policy and guidelines, implements organisational and technical measures and offers security services. The Commission provides security for members of the Commission, staff and other servants, personnel and visitors in all its premises according to the operational requirements stemming from a formal threat assessment.

As a directorate of the DG for Human Resources and Security, it falls under the political responsibility of the Vice-President responsible for Inter-Institutional Relations and Administration and operates under the management and supervision of its Director General.

Central Commission security services comprise around 185 officials and other servants whose salaries are determined by the Staff Regulations. Every Directorate-General has also appointed a ‘Local Security Officer’ who act as contact person and coordinator for all matters related to security in their department.

The salaries and mission costs of the staff of the Security Directorate are financed by the Commission's Administrative Budget.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009113/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ II

Thank you for your answer to Written Question E-002638/2013 (EUROGENFOR X) in which you referred to ‘the competent Commission services’ and the security measures that they provide, which ‘can range from discreet monitoring actions up to a more visible close protection scheme’. Please confirm the name of those competent Commission services, and confirm and explain in respect of each such service:

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

The competent Commission service is the Directorate-General for Human Resources and Security which has a Directorate for security. This directorate is an internal administrative service responsible for protecting Commission personnel, buildings and information.

Staff of this directorate have to comply with the obligations of the Staff Regulations of Officials and Conditions of employment of other servants of the Europan Union, see Articles 11 and following.

Commission services may liaise with other institutions, bodies and government administrations when appropriate and necessary in the performance of their tasks. Since the Directorate General for Human Resources and Security has no particular competencies with regard to third persons or activities outside the Commission premises, it must rely on cooperation with national law enforcement authorities.

Security measures are management decisions driven by the security requirements of the person, the building or the information in need of protection.

Staff of the European institutions may be on leave on personal grounds from national administrations or may belong to reserve forces of a member state army, see Article 42 (3) of the Staff Regulations, while fully respecting their obligations resulting from the Staff Regulations.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009114/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ III

Thank you for your answer to Written Question E-002638/2013 (EUROGENFOR X) in which you referred to ‘the competent Commission services’ and the security measures that they provide, which ‘can range from discreet monitoring actions up to a more visible close protection scheme’. Please confirm the name of those competent Commission services, and confirm and explain in respect of each such service:

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

DG Human Resources and Security may provide close protection to Commissioners, high-level visitors and officials when required so by a personalised threat assessment.

The Commission cannot provide operational security information which, if made public, could increase risks to Commissioners, visitors and officials who currently benefit or have benefited from such protection.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009115/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ IV

Thank you for your answer to Written Question E-002638/2013 (EUROGENFOR X) in which you referred to ‘the competent Commission services’ and the security measures that they provide, which ‘can range from discreet monitoring actions up to a more visible close protection scheme’. Please confirm the name of those competent Commission services, and confirm and explain in respect of each such service:

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

The Commission cannot provide, for the purpose of answering a written question, operational security information which, if made public, could increase risks to Commissioners, visitors and staff who currently benefit or have benefited from specific protection measure since this information could be useful to potential wrongdoers.

The Commission cannot undertake, for the purpose of answering a written question, the lengthy and costly research that would be required to provide the Honourable Member with the requested information on costs for each of the last five years.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009116/13

to the Commission

Nigel Farage (EFD)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: The Commission's ‘close protection service’ V

Thank you for your answer to Written Question E-002638/2013 (EUROGENFOR X) in which you referred to ‘the competent Commission services’ and the security measures that they provide, which ‘can range from discreet monitoring actions up to a more visible close protection scheme’. Please confirm the name of those competent Commission services, and confirm and explain in respect of each such service:

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

Officials and other servants of the European are subject to the laws of the member state in which they operate and their immunities are governed by Articles 17 and 18 of the Protocol on the Privileges and Immunities of the European Union.

Immunity — as is necessary for the performance of their tasks — is granted to officials and other servants of the European Union on the territory of members states. Immunity of an official or other servant of the European Union may be lifted — upon request of a competent national authority — when such decision is not deemed to be against the interest of the Union.

Immunity was — in the context of the tasks of the security services — neither exercised nor invoked in the last decade.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009117/13

alla Commissione

Roberta Angelilli (PPE)

(29 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Possibili finanziamenti per la realizzazione del «Progetto Telefono Blu»

Una società è impegnata da circa 30 anni nell'elaborazione, implementazione e realizzazione di progetti finalizzati al miglioramento delle relazioni interpersonali anche attraverso metodologie internazionali la cui validità scientifica è stata ampiamente convalidata nelle diverse applicazioni realizzate. Di conseguenza, una concreta iniziativa denominata «Progetto Telefono Blu» si impegna a garantire un'efficiente assistenza, con la collaborazione di avvocati, medici, psicologi ed operatori qualificati che faranno di questa linea telefonica un importante sostegno, offrendo un utile supporto morale, psicologico e giuridico che sarà fondamentale per la prevenzione ed il miglioramento di fenomeni violenti quali il femminicidio, lo stalking e conflitti relazionali. L'iniziativa sarà estesa sul territorio della Regione Lazio, con la collaborazione del Comune di Roma (Assessorato alla Sanità) e dei rispettivi Ministeri della Sanità e delle Politiche Sociali.

Alcuni dei punti principali che il progetto mira a conseguire sono:

Tutto ciò premesso, può la Commissione:

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(28 ottobre 2013)

Il programma Daphne III prevede finanziamenti per i progetti transnazionali volti a prevenire e a combattere la violenza contro le donne. Sono attualmente aperti inviti a presentare proposte (128).

La direttiva 2012/29/UE (129) («direttiva sulla protezione delle vittime») garantirà che le donne vittime di violenze beneficino di norme minime comuni per quanto riguarda i diritti procedurali nei procedimenti penali. Verrà predisposta inoltre tutta una serie di misure speciali, fra cui la formazione degli operatori della giustizia per proteggere e sostenere le vittime fra cui le donne vittime ad esempio di reati di natura sessuale o di violenza nelle relazioni strette (130). Anche i finanziamenti del programma «Giustizia penale» riguardano attività in quest'area (131).

La relazione dell'Istituto europeo per l'uguaglianza di genere (132) fornisce a sua volta una panoramica dei servizi a sostegno delle vittime di violenza domestica nell'UE.

Nell'aprile 2013, la Commissione ha organizzato uno scambio di pratiche per discutere le esperienze riguardanti i servizi di sostegno alle vittime della violenza di genere (133).

Inoltre, per il sostegno alle vittime esistono le linee armonizzate di assistenza telefonica al numero 116 (134). I servizi sono forniti da organizzazioni pubbliche o private selezionate localmente da ogni Stato membro. In questo contesto, il numero 116 006 serve a fornire assistenza alle vittime di reati. Lo Stato membro può anche chiedere la predisposizione della linea 116 016 per fornire specifiche informazioni e aiuto alle vittime della violenza di genere.

Infine il progetto, quale descritto, non sembra rientrare nel campo d'applicazione del Fondo sociale europeo (FSE) (135).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009117/13

to the Commission

Roberta Angelilli (PPE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Availability of funding for the ‘Progetto Telefono Blu’ (Blue Telephone Project)

A company has been involved for some 30 years in devising and carrying out projects which use internationally proven methods to improve interpersonal relationships. To take one example, the ‘Progetto Telefono Blu’ aims, with the involvement of lawyers, doctors, psychologists and other professionals to prevent and improve the response to phenomena such as femicide, stalking and violence within couples and to provide effective moral, psychological and legal support for the individuals concerned. The project will cover the Lazio region and will involve Rome City Council (Health Department) and the Ministries of Public Health and Social Policy.

The project will be based on an agreement to set up reception and support facilities in hospitals, and the staff involved will be selected carefully and provided with appropriate training in order to improve their ability to communicate effectively when taking calls from persons in difficulty.

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(28 October 2013)

Funding for transnational projects aimed at preventing and combating violence against women is available under the Daphne III Programme, where a call for proposals is currently open (136).

The directive 2012/29/EU (137) (‘Victims' Directive’) will ensure that women victims of violence benefit from common minimum standards of procedural rights during criminal proceedings. A whole range of special measures will be further put in place, including training to practitioners and support services, in order to protect and support victims, including women victims of e.g. sexual crime or violence in close relationship (138). Funding from the Criminal Justice Programme has also been covering activities in this area (139).

Moreover, the report of the European Institute for gender equality (140) gives an overview of national services which support victims of domestic violence in the EU.

In April 2013, the Commission organised an exchange of practices aimed at discussing experiences related to support services for victims of gender based violence (141).

Furthermore, harmonised 116 helplines exist for victim support (142). The services are provided by public or private organisations selected locally by each Member State. In this context, the 116 006 helpline aims at providing assistance to victims of crime. The Member States could also consider requesting the establishment of the helpline 116 016 for providing specific information and assistance to victims of gender-based violence.

Finally, the project as described does not seem to fall within the scope of the European Social Fund (ESF) (143).

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung P-009200/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Erwarteter Aufschwung durch das Handelsabkommen EU-USA

Angesichts des offenbar nicht enden wollenden Budgettiefs erwarten sich die USA laut jüngsten Medienberichten durch das geplante Freihandelsabkommen einen nicht unerheblichen Handelsaufschwung.

Antwort von Herrn De Gucht im Namen der Kommission

(21. August 2013)

Die EU und die USA handeln täglich mit Waren und Dienstleistungen im Wert von 2 Mrd. EUR und unterhalten damit die umfangreichsten Handelsbeziehungen der Welt. In der im März 2013 veröffentlichten unabhängigen Studie (144) wurden die wirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen eines Handels‐ und Investitionsabkommens sowohl für die EU als auch für die USA umrissen. Der Studie zufolge könnte sich der gesamtwirtschaftliche Gewinn für die EU auf 119 Mrd. EUR pro Jahr belaufen — dies entspricht einem Zusatzeinkommen von 545 EUR für einen Vier-Personen-Haushalt in der EU. Da sich die EU und der Euroraum nur langsam von der Rezession erholen, könnte dieser Beitrag durchaus beträchtlich sein. Die US-amerikanische Wirtschaft könnte aus dem Abkommen einen Gewinn von 95 Mrd. EUR pro Jahr ziehen, so dass jede amerikanische Familie 655 EUR mehr zur Verfügung hätte. Diesem Nutzen stünden sehr geringe Kosten gegenüber, da er aus der Abschaffung von Zöllen sowie unnötigen Regelungen und bürokratischen Hürden resultieren würde, die derzeit Käufe und Verkäufe über den Atlantik hinweg erschweren.

Das erwartete zusätzliche Wirtschaftswachstum durch die Transatlantische Handels‐ und Investitionspartnerschaft (TTIP) wird jedermann zugutekommen. Die Belebung des Handels ist ein probates Mittel zur Stimulierung der jeweiligen Volkswirtschaften, da sie Nachfrage und Angebot verstärkt, ohne dass die öffentliche Hand ihre Ausgaben oder ihre Kreditaufnahme erhöhen muss. Die einzigen Haushaltskosten für die EU wären der Einnahmenverlust durch den Wegfall der Zölle, der aber der unabhängigen Analyse zufolge auf 5,4 Mrd. EUR begrenzt bliebe. Er wird durch die Verbreiterung der Steuerbemessungsgrundlage infolge der erhöhten Wirtschaftstätigkeit indessen ausgeglichen. Den Berechnungen der Studie zufolge ergäbe sich der wirtschaftliche Nutzen der TTIP bis zu 80 % aus dem Abbau von unnötigen Kosten und Bürokratie aufgrund unterschiedlicher Vorschriften sowie aus der Liberalisierung des Dienstleistungsverkehrs und der öffentlichen Ausschreibungen. Dies wird dazu beitragen, die EU‐Wirtschaft dynamischer und wettbewerbsfähiger zu machen. Insgesamt dürfte das BIP der EU um rund 0,5 % steigen, wenn das Abkommen erst einmal in vollem Umfang angewandt wird.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-009200/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Expected boost as a result of the EU-USA Trade Agreement

According to recent media reports, the USA expects to enjoy a considerable boost to trade as a result of the impending Trade Agreement, at a time when there is no end in sight to the budget slump.

‘considerable’? Does the Commission think that these are realistic expectations?

Answer given by Mr De Gucht on behalf of the Commission

(21 August 2013)

The EU-US trade relationship is the biggest in the world, every day we trade goods and services worth EUR 2 billion. The independent study released in March 2013 (145) outlined the economic effects of a trade and investment agreement for both the EU and the US. According to the study, the EU's economy could benefit by EUR 119 billion a year ‐ equivalent to an extra EUR 545 for a family of four in the EU. As the EU and euro area slowly emerge from the recession, this contribution has the potential to be significant. The US economy could gain an extra EUR 95 billion a year or EUR 655 per American family. These benefits would cost very little as they would result from removing tariffs and unnecessary rules and bureaucratic hurdles that make it difficult to buy and sell across the Atlantic.

The extra economic growth that is expected to come from the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) will benefit everyone. Promoting trade is a good way of boosting our economies by creating increased demand and supply without having to increase public spending or borrowing. The only budgetary cost for the EU would be the loss in revenue associated with tariff elimination, which the independent analysis concludes to be limited to EUR 5.4 billion. This will be offset by the expansion of the tax base associated with the increased economic activity. The study also calculates that up to 80% of the economic benefits of the TTIP would come from reducing unnecessary costs and red tape stemming from divergent regulations, and from liberalising trade in services and government tenders. This will contribute to make the EU economy more dynamic and competitive. Overall, the EU’s GDP would be boosted by around 0.5%, once the deal will be fully implemented.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009201/13

a la Comisión

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(29 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: «Fracking»

Los estudios sobre repercusiones de la extracción de gas y petróleo de esquisto mediante fractura hidráulica «(fracking)» en el medio ambiente y la salud humana ponen de manifiesto los elevados riesgos que comporta esta técnica minera, dada su toxicidad, potencial sismicidad y limitada capacidad técnica existente para la prevención de tales riesgos. Sin embargo, y a pesar de ello, en Castilla y León, el Gobierno español ha autorizado un proyecto de investigación para un futuro campo de explotación en la cabecera de la cuenca del río Jalón, denominado «Cronos», que afectaría a las aguas de este río a nivel superficial y a la red de acuíferos subterráneos de dicha cuenca. Además de las afecciones directas al LIC de los Sabinares del Jalón y las ZEPA de Monteagudo de las Vicarías, Páramo de Layna y Parameras de Maranchón, hoz del Mesa y Aragoncillo, son de destacar las afecciones a la agricultura y ganadería de la zona, así como el enorme impacto que supondría para esa zona el que se malograse la actividad de los balnearios aragoneses de Paracuellos de Jiloca, Jaraba (Sicilia, La Virgen y Serón), Alhama de Aragón (Pallarés) y de las tres plantas embotelladoras de agua mineral (Lunares, Fontjaraba y Fontecabras) que se encuentran en la Comunidad de Calatayud. Todo ello, en un contexto general de enormes dificultades económicas resultaría demoledor e irreversible para unas comarcas rurales que luchan contra la despoblación, el envejecimiento y el abandono con actividades económicas alternativas.

¿Cree la Comisión que estos proyectos son compatibles con la legislación europea en materia de aguas, con la preservación de la Red Natura 2000, con las actividades económicas (turismo, termalismo, comercialización de agua mineral, ganadería, agricultura, etc.) existentes en esa zona y con la preservación de la seguridad y la salud humanas?

Respuesta del Sr. Potočnik en nombre de la Comisión

(19 de septiembre de 2013)

La Comisión no lleva a cabo un seguimiento pormenorizado de las operaciones concretas de exploración o explotación de gas de esquisto en lugares o regiones específicos. Incumbe a los Estados miembros garantizar, a través de evaluaciones adecuadas, regímenes de concesión de autorizaciones y licencias y actividades de supervisión e inspección, que todas las exploraciones o explotaciones de fuentes de energía, incluidas las que utilizan la técnica de la fractura hidráulica, cumplan los requisitos establecidos en el marco jurídico existente en la EU. Ello incluye, entre otras cosas, las disposiciones en materia de evaluaciones de impacto ambiental y participación pública (146), protección de las aguas superficiales y las aguas subterráneas (147), gestión de los residuos (148) y conservación de los hábitats naturales (149).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009201/13

to the Commission

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Fracking

Studies on the environmental and public health repercussions of extracting oil and gas from shale rock by hydraulic fracturing (a process commonly known as ‘fracking’) have brought to light the high risks associated with the technique, which include its use of toxic chemicals, its potential to cause seismic activity and the fact that existing technical capabilities to prevent such risks are limited. However, despite the risks, the Spanish Government has authorised a project to explore a future extraction area known as ‘Cronos’ in the headwaters of the Jalón river in the region of Castilla y León. If extraction were to go ahead it would affect both the surface water of the river and the network of aquifers underneath the basin. In addition to the direct effect it would have on Sabinares del Jalón, a site of Community importance, and the Special Protection Areas of Monteagudo de las Vicarías, Páramo de Layna and Parameras de Maranchón, Hoz de Mesa y Aragoncillo, it is worth highlighting the effect on local farming (both arable and livestock) and the huge impact it would have were it to disrupt operations at the Aragonese thermal baths in Paracuellos de Jiloca, Jaraba (Sicilia, La Virgen and Serón) and Alhama de Aragón (Pallarés) and the three mineral water bottling plants (Lunares, Fontjaraba and Fontecabras) in the municipality of Calatayud. Given the enormous economic difficulties that people are facing at the moment, these repercussions would prove devastating and irreversible for some rural communities which are struggling to deal with declining and ageing populations and the disappearance of alternative forms of economic activity.

Does the Commission believe that these projects are compatible with EU legislation on water, with the preservation of the Natura 2000 network, with existing economic activity in the area (tourism, the spa industry, mineral water production, farming, etc.) and with the need to safeguard people’s health and security?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(19 September 2013)

The Commission does not follow in detail specific shale gas exploration or exploitation operations in individual locations or regions. It is the responsibility of the Member States to ensure — via appropriate assessments, licensing and permitting regimes as well as monitoring and inspections activities — that any exploration or exploitation of energy sources, including those using hydraulic fracturing, complies with the requirements of the existing legal framework in the EU. This includes, inter alia,provisions on environmental impact assessments and public participation (150), the protection of surface and groundwater (151), on waste management (152) and on the conservation of natural habitats (153).

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009202/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Umweltverschmutzung in Galicien

Die Lebensbedingungen in Galicien werden zunehmend schlechter. Die Besorgnis über die Gesundheit und Sicherheit der einheimischen Bevölkerung wächst.

Die Medien melden, dass für die Wiederherstellung der Flussufer der „Ría de Ferrol“ EU-Gelder widmungswidrig für die Herstellung eines Weges entlang der Küste verwendet wurden.

Antwort von Johannes Hahn im Namen der Kommission

(25. September 2013)

1.-2. Der Kommission ist weder bekannt, dass die für die Wiederherstellung des Flussufers der Ría de Ferrol vorgesehenen EU-Gelder angeblich für den Bau einer Straße entlang der Küste verwendet wurden, noch kennt sie entsprechende Medienberichte oder die Grundlage für derartige Behauptungen.

Ministerio de Economía y Hacienda — Madrid, España

Dirección General de Fondos Comunitarios

Subdirección General de Administración del FEDER

Paseo de la Castellana, 162

28071 Madrid

Spanien

http://www.dgfc.sepg.minhap.gob.es/sitios/DGFC/es-ES/Paginas/inicio.aspx

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009202/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Environmental pollution in Galicia

Living conditions in Galicia are getting steadily worse. Concern about the health and safety of the local population is growing.

According to media reports, EU money to restore the banks of the Ría de Ferrol is being used to build a road along the coast.

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(25 September 2013)

1-2. The Commission is not aware of the use of EU money for building a road along the coast instead of restoring the banks of the Ria de Ferrol, nor of the media reports referred to in the question or the basis for such allegations.

Ministerio de Economía y Hacienda — Madrid, España

Dirección General de Fondos Comunitarios, Subdirección General de Administración del FEDER

Paseo de la Castellana, 162

28071 Madrid

http://www.dgfc.sepg.minhap.gob.es/sitios/DGFC/es-ES/Paginas/inicio.aspx

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009203/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Wirtschaftliche Entwicklung Bulgariens und deren Auswirkungen

Es wird zuletzt vermehrt berichtet, dass Bulgarien zu wenig im Kampf gegen Korruption und andere Missstände, wie beispielsweise die mangelhaften demokratischen Standards, unternimmt. Viele wichtige Reformen würden dort nicht umgesetzt werden. Des Weiteren wird berichtet, dass Minderheiten (u. a. Roma) auf Gebieten wie Bildung, Arbeit und Gesundheitsversorgung unvermindert andauernd diskriminiert werden.

Antwort von Herrn Šefčovič im Namen der Kommission

(16. September 2013)

Beim EU-Beitritt Bulgariens wurde eingeräumt, dass noch immer Unzulänglichkeiten bei der Justizreform sowie bei der Bekämpfung von Korruption und organisierter Kriminalität bestanden. Es wurde vereinbart, einen Kooperations‐ und Überprüfungsmechanismus zur Unterstützung Bulgariens und zur Überwachung der Fortschritte in diesen Bereichen einzurichten. Im Rahmen dieses Mechanismus führen die Kommission und die bulgarischen Behörden einen kontinuierlichen Dialog über alle einschlägigen Fragen, wie die Bekämpfung von Korruption und organisierter Kriminalität. Sowohl durch regelmäßige Kontakte in Brüssel als auch durch eine ständige Präsenz in Sofia ist gewährleistet, dass die Kommission stets über die neuesten Entwicklungen im Land informiert ist. Die Kommission organisiert im September eine ihrer regelmäßigen Expertenmissionen nach Bulgarien, die unter anderem das Thema Korruptionsbekämpfung zum Gegenstand haben wird. Die Kommission wird Ende dieses Jahres über die Fortschritte Bulgariens im Rahmen des Kooperations‐ und Überprüfungsmechanismus Bericht erstatten. Sie erhält eine Vielzahl von Informationen über Korruptions‐ und Menschenrechtsfragen, die von Fall zu Fall bewertet werden.

Mit den EU-Strukturfonds werden unterschiedlichste Maßnahmen in Bulgarien unterstützt, unter anderem Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Lage von Minderheiten, vor allem der Roma. Dazu zählen auch der Wiederaufbau und die Instandsetzung bildungsbezogener, sozialer, sanitärer und städtischer Infrastrukturen. Die mangelnde öffentliche Unterstützung für solche Initiativen stellt eines der größten Hindernisse für die erfolgreiche Umsetzung der Integrationspolitik für Roma dar. Die Kommission kann der Frau Abgeordneten direkt zusätzliche Auskünfte zu diesem Thema geben. Ausführliche Informationen zu spezifischen Projekten im Rahmen der verschiedenen operationellen Programme in Bulgarien sind auf folgender Website zu finden: http://www.eufunds.bg/

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009203/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Economic developments in Bulgaria and their impact

We are increasingly hearing reports recently that Bulgaria is doing too little in the fight against corruption and other problems, such as the lack of democratic standards. Numerous important reforms have not been implemented. There are also reports that minorities (including the Roma) are still subject to persistent discrimination in areas such as education, work and healthcare.

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

When Bulgaria acceded to the European Union, it was acknowledged that shortcomings remained concerning the reform of the judiciary and the fight against corruption and organised crime. It was agreed to set up a Cooperation and Verification Mechanism in order to support Bulgaria and to monitor progress in these areas. Under the CVM, the Commission and the Bulgarian authorities carry out a continuing dialogue on all CVM related matters, including progress in the fight against corruption and organised crime. Both through regular contacts in Brussels, as well as through a permanent presence in Sofia, it is ensured that the Commission is informed of the latest developments in the country. The Commission will organise one of its regular expert missions to Bulgaria in September where the issue of the fight against corruption will also be covered. The Commission will report on progress in Bulgaria under the CVM at the end of this year. The Commission receives a variety of information concerning corruption and human rights issues, which are assessed on a case by case basis.

EU structural funds have supported a wide variety of actions in Bulgaria, including improving the situation of minorities, in particular Roma. This includes reconstruction and renovation of educational, social, health and urban infrastructure. The lack of public support for such initiatives is one of the main barriers for the successful implementation of Roma integration policy. The Commission can provide further details directly to the Honourable Member. Detailed information regarding specific projects covered by the different Operational Programmes in Bulgaria can also be found on the website: http://www.eufunds.bg/.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009204/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Wirtschaftsprobleme in Kroatien

Kroatien ist nach Slowenien das zweite EU-Mitgliedsland aus dem ehemaligen Jugoslawien.

Es wird immer wieder über Probleme berichtet, die in dieser Region aufgrund der historischen Entwicklungen noch heute bestehen.

So sei die Wirtschaft schwer angeschlagen, die Industrie liege am Boden, die Sozialsysteme stünden unter Druck, und die öffentliche Verwaltung müsste modernisiert werden.

Antwort von Herrn Hahn im Namen der Kommission

(24. September 2013)

Die Auswirkungen des EU-Beitritts Kroatiens auf den Haushalt und den Euroraum sind kein Thema, da Kroatien kein Programmland ist.

„Europa 2020“ ausgerichtet, so dass die Finanzmittel vor allem für das Erreichen der nationalen und europäischen sozioökonomischen Ziele eingesetzt werden.

Die laufenden Programme für den Zeitraum 2007-2013, die im Rahmen des Instruments für Heranführungshilfe in den Bereichen regionale Wettbewerbsfähigkeit, Verkehr, Umwelt und Humanressourcen angenommen wurden, werden im Rahmen der Kohäsionspolitik eine neue Mittelzuweisung in Höhe von 450 Mio. EUR (155) erhalten. Kroatien bereitet derzeit den neuen Programmplanungszeitraum 2014-2020 vor (8 Mrd. EUR).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009204/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Economic problems in Croatia

Croatia is the second Member State from the former Yugoslavia, after Slovenia, to join the EU.

We are repeatedly hearing reports of persistent problems caused by historical developments.

For example, the economy is in dire straits, industry has collapsed, social systems are under pressure and the public administration needs to be modernised.

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(24 September 2013)

GDP will contract by 1% in 2013. In the short term, a key challenge is to kickstart a job-rich growth, while ensuring fiscal consolidation. In the medium term, it is implementing structural reforms, promoting competitiveness and improving growth prospects.

The budgetary impact of Croatia's accession on the EU and the euro area is not an issue; Croatia is not a programme country.

control of the EU Delegation in Croatia. So far, no major fraud or corruption cases were found.

The ongoing 2007-13 programmes adopted under the Instrument for Pre-Accession for regional competitiveness, transport, environment and human resources benefit from a new allocation of EUR 450 million (157) under cohesion policy. Croatia is currently preparing for the 2014-20 period (EUR 8 billion).

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009205/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Wirtschaftliche Entwicklung Rumäniens und deren Auswirkungen

Rumänien sei schwer von der Wirtschaftskrise angeschlagen, wird vielerorts berichtet. Gerade dort wachse der Unmut in der Bevölkerung, denn das Land unterziehe sich einem eisernen Sparprogramm.

Korruption und Bürokratie seien bis heute Alltag im Geschäftsleben Rumäniens. Die schlechte Wirtschaftslage Rumäniens führe bereits zu einer Massenflucht von Arbeitskräften. Millionen Menschen gingen in den letzten Jahren nach Westeuropa, zum Beispiel nach Spanien oder Italien.

Antwort von Herrn Rehn im Namen der Kommission

(7. Oktober 2013)

Seit Ausbruch der Finanzkrise hat sich die Wirtschaftslage Rumäniens dank zweier Zahlungsbilanzprogramme verbessert. Das Wachstum dürfte im Jahr 2013 bei 1,6 % und im Jahr 2014 bei 2,2 % liegen (158). Damit wird das geschätzte Wachstumspotenzial von 2,1 % bzw. 2,6 % nicht ausgeschöpft, was teils auf die verzögerte Umsetzung der geplanten Reformen, unzureichende Verwaltungskapazitäten und eine unzulängliche Prioritätensetzung bei den öffentlichen Investitionen zurückzuführen ist.

Der Arbeitsmarkt in Rumänien zeigt sich solide (159) mit einer Erwerbslosenquote, die deutlich niedriger ist als der EU-Durchschnitt (160).

Für den Zeitraum 2007-2013 wurden Rumänien fast 20 Mrd. EUR im Rahmen des Ziels „Konvergenz“ (161) zugewiesen. Mit diesen Mitteln sollen Projekte in den Bereichen Verkehrs‐ und Umweltinfrastruktur, Forschung, KMU-Unterstützung, Energie, Entwicklung der Humanressourcen und Verbesserung der Verwaltungskapazität gefördert werden (162). Für das rumänische Nationale Programm für ländliche Entwicklung wurden weitere Mittel in Höhe von 8 Mrd. EUR bereitgestellt, die der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit der Agrar‐ und Ernährungswirtschaft und der Diversifizierung der ländlichen Wirtschaft zugutekommen. Die Durchführung der Programme verläuft nur schleppend. Der Rat hat Rumänien 2013 in einer länderspezifischen Empfehlung (163) aufgefordert, die Verwaltungskapazitäten zu stärken, um die Inanspruchnahme von EU-Mitteln zu beschleunigen.

Die Kommission widmet wirtschaftlichen und sozialen Entwicklungen große Aufmerksamkeit. Die Verbesserung des wirtschaftlichen Umfelds für KMU war Teil der letzten beiden Programme (siehe Arbeitsunterlage der Kommissionsdienststellen für eine Gesamtbewertung (164)), gehörte zu den länderspezifischen Empfehlungen und ist geplanter Bestandteil des von den rumänischen Behörden beantragten Zahlungsbilanzprogramms 2013-2015. Der vorsichtig austarierte Konsolidierungspfad für Rumänien ist auf Defizitabbau und nachhaltiges Wachstum angelegt.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009205/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Economic developments in Romania and their impact

Romania has been hit hard by the economic crisis, as reported in numerous media. Resentment at the harsh austerity programme imposed on the country is growing among the population.

Corruption and bureaucracy are daily occurrences in Romania’s commercial life. Romania’s weak economy has already resulted in a mass exodus of workers. Millions of people have left in recent years for Western European countries such as Spain or Italy.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(7 October 2013)

Since the financial crisis and with the support of two BoP (165) programmes, Romania has improved its economic stance. Growth is projected at 1.6% in 2013 and 2.2% in 2014. (166) This is still below potential growth, estimated at 2.1% and 2.6%, respectively, in part due to delayed implementation of planned reforms, weak administrative capacity and insufficient prioritisation of public investment.

Romania's own labour market performs well (167), with an unemployment rate markedly lower than the EU average (168) .

For 2007-13, Romania has been allocated almost EUR 20 billion under the Convergence Objective (169) supporting projects for transport and environment infrastructure, research, SMEs support, energy, human resources development and improvement of the administrative capacity. (170) The Romanian National Rural Development Programme has an allocation of an additional EUR 8 billion which contributes to promoting competitiveness in the agri-food sector and diversification of the rural economy. Implementation of the programmes has been slow. The Council recommendation (CSRs) addressed to Romania in 2013 (171) called for the strengthening of administrative capacity, in order to accelerate the absorption of EU funds.

The Commission pays close attention to business and social developments. Improving the business environment for SMEs was part of the past two programmes (see the Commission’s services paper for an overall assessment (172)), was part of the CSRs, and would be part of the 2013-2015 BoP programme requested by the Romanian authorities. The fiscal adjustment path for Romania is cautiously balanced to achieve deficit reduction and sustained growth.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009206/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Mehr Netto vom Brutto

In vielen Mitgliedstaaten stellt sich die Frage nach „mehr Netto vom Brutto“.

So soll es laut Medienberichten künftig eine seriöse Form der Gegenfinanzierung geben, wenn man sich eine reine Abgabensenkung zum gegenwärtigen Zeitpunkt wegen der Haushaltslage nicht leisten könne.

Antwort von Herrn Rehn im Namen der Kommission

(12. September 2013)

In ihrem Jahreswachstumsbericht 2013 forderte die Kommission eine effizientere, gerechtere und wachstumsfreundlichere Ausgestaltung der Steuersysteme. Entsprechend sollte die Besteuerung des Faktors Arbeit dort, wo sie vergleichsweise hoch ist, der Schaffung von Arbeitsplätzen entgegensteht und sich nachteilig auf die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit auswirken könnte, deutlich gesenkt werden. Damit etwaige Reformen aufkommensneutral sind, könnten im Gegenzug Steuern, die als weniger wachstumsschädlich gelten, wie beispielsweise Verbrauchsteuern, Grundsteuern oder Umweltsteuern, angehoben werden.

Auf der Grundlage einer Überprüfung der wirtschaftlichen und sozialen Entwicklungen in den einzelnen Mitgliedstaaten sowie der im Jahreswachstumsbericht dargelegten EU-weiten Handlungsprioritäten hat die Kommission im Mai 2013 an jeden Mitgliedstaat länderspezifische Empfehlungen gerichtet. Diese Empfehlungen wurden im Juni 2013 vom Europäischen Rat gebilligt und im Juli 2013 vom Rat förmlich verabschiedet. Eine der für mehrere Mitgliedstaaten genannten Reformprioritäten ist die Eindämmung der Steuer‐ und Abgabenbelastung des Faktors Arbeit. Ziel ist es, Arbeitsanreize zu setzen und die relativ hohen Arbeitskosten, insbesondere für geringqualifizierte Arbeitskräfte, zu reduzieren. Zur Gewährleistung tragfähiger öffentlicher Finanzen müssen derartige Steuer‐ und Abgabensenkungen gegenfinanziert werden.

http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/making-it-happen/annual-growth-surveys/index_en.htm

http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/making-it-happen/country-specific-recommendations/index_de.htm

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009206/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: More net from the gross

In many Member States the issue of ‘more net from the gross’ is being raised.

Media reports are claiming that we should in future have a reliable form of reciprocal financing if we cannot afford a pure tax cut at the present time on account of the budgetary situation.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(12 September 2013)

In its 2013 Annual Growth Survey (AGS), the Commission calls for tax systems to be made more effective, fairer and less detrimental to growth. In this respect, the tax burden on labour should be substantially reduced in countries where it is comparatively high and hampers job creation and could pose a drag on competitiveness. To ensure that reforms are revenue neutral, taxes considered less detrimental to growth, such as consumption tax, recurrent property tax and environmental taxes could be increased.

Based on the review of each Member State's economic and social performance, and the EU-wide priorities for action set out in the abovementioned AGS, the Commission adopted a set of country-specific recommendations for each Member State in May 2013. The recommendations were endorsed by the European Council in June 2013 and formally adopted by the Council in July 2013. A reform priority identified for several Member States was to limit labour taxation in order to raise incentives to work and to reduce the relatively high cost of labour, in particular for low-skilled workers. In order to ensure sound public finances, such tax cuts need then to be compensated financially.

http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/making-it-happen/annual-growth-surveys/index_en.htm

http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/making-it-happen/country-specific-recommendations/index_en.htm

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009207/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Korruption in Europa

Laut diverser Medienberichte soll die Korruption im Geschäftsleben von Slowenien zu 96 %, in Griechenland zu 84 % und in Spanien zu 61 % an der Tagesordnung sein.

Die Wirtschaftskrise verschärfe die Situation in vielen Ländern Europas, weil die Unternehmen trotzdem unter Druck stünden, mit Umsatz‐ und Gewinnzuwächsen zu glänzen.

„zurückgewinnen“?

Antwort von Frau Malmström im Namen der Kommission

(30. September 2013)

Der Kommission sind die zahlreichen Medienberichte über die Korruption in einigen Mitgliedstaaten bekannt.

Sie erstellt derzeit den ersten Antikorruptionsbericht der EU, der noch dieses Jahr angenommen werden soll. Ziel ist es, den Stand der Korruptionsbekämpfung in der Europäischen Union in regelmäßigen Abständen zu untersuchen sowie bewährte Verfahren der Korruptionsbekämpfung zu fördern und den politischen Willen hierzu in den Ländern und Bereichen, in denen entschiedener gegen Korruption vorgegangen werden muss, zu stimulieren. Nachfolgend soll auf Grundlage von der Kommission vorliegenden Informationen alle zwei Jahre ein entsprechender Bericht zur Situation in den einzelnen Mitgliedstaaten herausgegeben werden.

Im Oktober 2013 wird die Kommission Schätzungen zu den Kosten der Korruption im Rahmen der öffentlichen Auftragsvergabe publizieren, die auf einer von einem Beratungsunternehmen für das Europäische Amt für Betrugsbekämpfung (OLAF) durchgeführten Studie basieren.

Für die Wiedereinziehung rechtsgrundlos gezahlter Beträge zu Lasten des EU-Haushalts im Wege einer angemessenen Strafverfolgung sind in erster Linie die Mitgliedstaaten verantwortlich.

Ferner verweist die Kommission die Frau Abgeordnete auf den letzten Jahresbericht über den Schutz der finanziellen Interessen der Europäischen Union — Betrugsbekämpfung (173) und auf den Jahresbericht des OLAF (174).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009207/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Corruption in Europe

According to various media reports, corruption affects 96% of business life in Slovenia, 84% in Greece and 61% in Spain.

The economic crisis is exacerbating the situation in numerous countries in Europe, because companies are under pressure to perform by increasing sales and profits.

‘recover’?

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(30 September 2013)

The Commission is aware of the numerous reports concerning corruption in particular in some Member States.

The Commission is currently drafting the first EU Anti-Corruption Report, to be adopted later in 2013. The objective is to periodically assess the situation in the Union regarding the fight against corruption promote good practices and stimulate political will in those countries and sectors where corruption needs to be addressed more vigorously. Subsequent reports will follow every two years.

Based on the information which is available to the Commission, the situation for each Member State will be set out in the abovementioned report.

On the basis of a study conducted by a consultancy firm for OLAF, the Commission will publish estimates of the costs of corruption in public procurement in October 2013.

The Member States are in the first instance responsible for the recovery of sums unduly paid affecting the EU Budget through appropriate judicial prosecution.

The Commission would further refer the Honourable Member to its recent annual report on the Protection of the EU's financial interests — Fight against fraud (175) and to the OLAF annual report (176).

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009208/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Anfrage zu der Einfuhr von Lebensmitteln aus den USA

Aufgrund der derzeitigen Verhandlungen über die Freihandelszone zwischen der EU und den USA werden Befürchtungen über die Einfuhr von „Chlorhuhn“ und „Klonfleisch“ laut. Eine reine Kennzeichnung der Lebensmittel reiche nicht aus, wird vielfach geäußert. Wenn Hühner wie in den USA zur Desinfizierung beim Schlachten durch ein Chlorbad gezogen würden, dann sei der Anreiz für hohe Hygienestandards in Ställen wohl eher gering.

Während in Europa beispielsweise genveränderte Lebensmittel bei Verbrauchern und Politikern auf breite Ablehnung stoßen, verhält es sich in den USA völlig anders: 90 % des verwendeten Mais, der Sojabohnen und der Zuckerrüben sind gentechnisch verändert und werden akzeptiert. In Amerika gibt es auch keine Kennzeichnungspflichten.

Dementsprechend ist es schwer nachvollziehbar, welche Inhaltsstoffe verwendet wurden und wie das Produkt produziert wurde. Beispiele sind hormonbelastetes Rindfleisch und Hähnchen, die mit Chlor desinfiziert werden.

Antwort von Herrn Borg im Namen der Kommission

(6. September 2013)

Einige in den Vereinigten Staaten relativ übliche Lebensmittelproduktionsverfahren sind in der EU tatsächlich nicht zugelassen. Daher dürfen Lebensmittel, die auf diese Weise produziert werden, nicht auf den EU‐Markt gelangen. In die EU eingeführte Lebensmittel müssen entsprechend den Anforderungen der EU oder zumindest solchen, die die EU als gleichwertig erachtet, hergestellt werden. Die US‐Behörden müssen diese Bestimmungen einhalten. Die Einhaltung der Vorschriften wird von den zuständigen Behörden des Ausfuhrlandes überwacht, vom Lebensmittel‐ und Veterinäramt der Kommission regelmäßig kontrolliert und bei der Einfuhr von Produkten in die EU von den EU‐Grenzkontrollstellen überprüft. Gleichermaßen müssen aus der EU in die Vereinigten Staaten ausgeführte Lebensmittel die Anforderungen der USA oder solche, die als gleichwertig erachtet werden, erfüllen.

Bei den Verhandlungen zur transatlantischen Handels‐ und Investitionspartnerschaft stehen grundlegende Rechtsvorschriften zum Verbraucherschutz in der EU nicht zur Debatte. EU‐Standards für sichere Lebensmittel gelten für alle Lebensmittel in der EU, ungeachtet dessen, ob diese von einem Mitgliedstaat oder von einem Drittland produziert werden. Die EU ist eine Einheit mit einem Gemeinsamen Markt und harmonisierten Einfuhrvorschriften. Daher haben alle 28 Mitgliedstaaten dieselben gesundheitspolizeilichen Einfuhrvorschriften.

Die Kommission möchte die Frau Abgeordnete auf die Antworten auf die Anfragen E‐1348/2013 (177) und E‐002504/13 (1) bezüglich GVO aufmerksam machen.

Bezüglich der Frage nach den Auswirkungen auf die inländischen Produktionskosten ist es unwahrscheinlich, dass ein Freihandelsabkommen mit den Vereinigten Staaten eine Preissteigerung inländischer EU‐Produkte zur Folge hätte.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009208/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Inquiry into imported foodstuffs from the USA

In the light of current negotiations on a free trade area between the EU and the USA, fears are being expressed about imports of chlorine-washed poultry and meat from cloned animals. Simple labelling of foodstuffs does not suffice, as has been explained on many occasions. If poultry are pulled through a chlorine disinfection bath during slaughter, as in the USA, then there is less incentive to maintain hygiene standards in cages.

Whereas in Europe, for example, consumers broadly reject genetically-modified foodstuffs, things are very different in the USA: 90% of the maize, soya beans and sugar beet used is genetically modified, and that is accepted. Nor are there any labelling requirements in the USA.

Therefore it is hard to track what ingredients are used and how products are produced. Hormone-loaded beef and chlorine-disinfected poultry are examples of this.

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(6 September 2013)

Some food production methods that are rather common in the US are indeed not allowed in the EU. Therefore, food produced according to these methods cannot enter the EU market. Food imported in the EU must be produced according to the EU requirements, or at least with requirements that the EU has considered to be equivalent, and US authorities must ensure the respect of these provisions. The respect of these conditions is overseen by the competent authorities of the country of export, regularly audited by the Commission's Food and Veterinary Office and verified by the EU Border Inspection Posts when products enter the EU. In a similar manner, food exported from the EU to the US must be in line with the US requirements or at least with requirements which are considered equivalent to them.

With regards to the negotiation on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, basic legislation protecting EU consumers will not be up for negotiation. EU standards on safe food apply to all foodstuffs circulating within the EU, either produced in an EU Member State or imported from a third country. The EU is a single entity, thus it has a single market and harmonised import rules. Therefore, the sanitary import conditions are the same for each of the 28 Member States.

The Commission would like to refer the Honourable Member to its answers to Question E-1348/2013 (178) and to Question E-002504/131 as regards GMO.

With reference to the question on the impact on the domestic production cost, it is unlikely that a free trade agreement with the US would increase the price of EU domestic products.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009209/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: IT-Vertrauensverlust — Auswirkungen auf die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit

Im Zuge der aktuellen Entwicklungen um den sogenannten „Abhörskandal“ fühlen sich die EU-Bürgerinnen und EU-Bürger zunehmend überwacht und empfinden ihre Datentransfers im Internet nicht mehr als sicher (erste einzelstaatliche Studien weisen auf einen Vertrauensverlust bei bis zu zwei Dritteln der BenutzerInnen hin).

Antwort von Frau Reding im Namen der Kommission

(7. Oktober 2013)

Die Kommission ist äußerst besorgt über die jüngsten Medienberichte über Programme wie PRISM, die es offenkundig ermöglichen, in großem Umfang auf personenbezogene Daten zuzugreifen und diese zu verarbeiten.

Die digitale Welt bietet uns allen große Chancen, für Meinungsäußerung, Kreativität und Geschäftstätigkeit. Für ihre Entwicklung und ihr Wachstum muss aber das Vertrauen gegeben sein, dass die Grundrechte eingehalten werden. Der Schutz personenbezogener Daten ist ein solches Grundrecht. Ein solider Rahmen für den Datenschutz ist daher in einer demokratischen Gesellschaft weder ein Hindernis noch ein Luxus, sondern vielmehr eine Notwendigkeit.

Die Reform des Datenschutzes (179), die von der Kommission im Januar 2012 vorgeschlagen wurde, wird dazu beitragen, den Trend des sinkenden Vertrauens in die Art des Umgangs mit Daten vonseiten der Unternehmen, denen die Daten anvertraut wurden, umzukehren. Mit der vorgeschlagenen Reform wird das bestehende hohe Datenschutzniveau in der EU durch die Aktualisierung der Rechte von Einzelpersonen verstärkt. Sie wird die Pflichten und Zuständigkeiten der Verarbeiter sowie der für die Verarbeitung Verantwortlichen klären. Eindeutige und solide Vorschriften zum freien Verkehr personenbezogener Daten werden auch zum Wachstum von Unternehmen innerhalb eines vertrauenswürdigen Datenschutzrahmens beitragen.

Gemeinsam mit dem Vorsitz des Rates der EU hat die Kommission ferner eine hochrangige ad-hoc-EU-US-Arbeitsgruppe zum Datenschutz eingesetzt, um die durch Programme wie PRISM aufgeworfenen Fragen genauer zu prüfen. Auf der Grundlage der somit erlangten Informationen wird die Kommission dem Europäischen Parlament und dem Rat im Oktober Bericht erstatten.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009209/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: IT — loss of confidence and effects on competitiveness

During the course of current developments surrounding the so-called ‘bugging scandal’, EU citizens have come to feel that they are under increasing surveillance and that their online data transmissions are no longer secure (initial national studies indicate that user confidence has fallen by up to two-thirds).

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(7 October 2013)

The Commission is very concerned regarding the recent media reports about programmes such as PRISM which appear to enable access and processing, on a large scale, of personal data.

The digital world presents great opportunities for us all, for expression, for creativity, and for business. But in order for it to develop and grow, there must be trust that fundamental rights are respected. The protection of personal data is such a fundamental right. A strong framework for data protection is therefore neither a constraint nor a luxury but a necessity in a democratic society.

The Data Protection Reform (180) proposed by the Commission in January 2012 will help reverse the trend of falling trust in the way in which data is handled by companies to which it is entrusted. The proposed reform will strengthen the current high level of data protection in the EU by updating individual’s rights. It will clarify obligations and responsibilities on processors as well as data controllers. Clear and robust rules for the free movement of personal data will also help businesses grow within a data protection framework that can be trusted.

In addition, the Commission has set up, together with the Presidency of the Council of the EU, an ad-hoc high-level EU-US working group on data protection to examine the issues raised by programs such as PRISM further. Based on the information gathered, the Commission will report back to the European Parliament and the Council in October.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009210/13

an die Kommission (Vizepräsidentin/Hohe Vertreterin)

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: VP/HR — Menschenrechtsverletzungen im Oman

Es häufen sich die Meldungen über Menschenrechtsverletzungen im Oman, insbesondere was freie Meinungsäußerung und friedlichen zivilen Protest angeht. Derartige Meldungen sind bereits seit längerem — unter anderen in Medienkreisen und Politik — bekannt und werden auch im Bericht von Amnesty International von 2013 zur weltweiten Lage der Menschenrechte erwähnt.

Antwort von Frau Ashton — Hohe Vertreterin/Vizepräsidentin im Namen der Kommission

(24. September 2013)

Der Hohen Vertreterin/Vizepräsidentin sind die von der Frau Abgeordneten in Bezug auf Oman genannten Fakten bekannt. Die EU-Delegation in Riad (in Oman akkreditiert) und die diplomatischen Vertretungen der EU in Maskat verfolgen die Menschenrechtslage einschließlich der Entwicklungen in Zusammenhang mit der freien Meinungsäußerung im Rahmen ihrer regelmäßigen Berichterstattung aufmerksam.

Derzeit gibt es keine bilateralen Abkommen zwischen der EU und Oman und somit keinen institutionellen bilateralen politischen Dialog, auch nicht zum Thema Menschenrechte.

Im Verlauf des Ministertreffens zwischen der EU und dem Golfkooperationsrat vom 30. Juni 2013 in Manama hob die EU in ihren Beiträgen die zentrale Bedeutung der Menschenrechte in den Beziehungen der EU mit Drittpartnern hervor.

Die Hohe Vertreterin/Vizepräsidentin der Kommission und ihre Dienststellen werden weiterhin die gesamte Palette verfügbarer Möglichkeiten und Instrumente nutzen, darunter öffentliche Erklärungen und diplomatische Demarchen, um in ihren Kontakten mit Beamten Omans und des Golfkooperationsrates die Themen Menschenrechte und Grundfreiheiten regelmäßig zur Sprache zu bringen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009210/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Human rights violations in Oman

Reports of human rights violations in Oman are piling up, especially in connection with freedom of expression and peaceful civil protect. Such reports have been common knowledge for a long term, including in media and political circles, and are also mentioned in the 2013 Amnesty International report on the state of the world’s human rights.

Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Ashton on behalf of the Commission

(24 September 2013)

The HR/VP is well aware of the issues raised by the Honourable Member with regard to Oman. The EU Delegation in Riyadh (accredited to Oman) and EU diplomatic missions in Muscat are closely following the human rights situation, including developments related to freedom of expression, as part of their regular reporting.

There are currently no bilateral agreements between the EU and Oman and thus no institutional bilateral political dialogue, inlcuding on Human Rights.

EU interventions during the EU-GCC Ministerial meeting of 30 June 2013 in Manama emphasised the central importance of Human Rights in EU relations with third partners.

The HR/VP and her services will continue to use the full range of opportunities and instruments available, including public statements and diplomatic demarches, to raise human rights and fundamental freedoms regularly in their contacts with Omani and GCC officials.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009211/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Drogenpolitik — neue Herausforderungen

In Europa konsumieren 85 Millionen Menschen illegale Drogen; damit befindet sich der Drogenkonsum auf einem außergewöhnlich hohen Stand; zusätzlich gab es Entwicklungen im Hinblick auf den Variantenreichtum der angebotenen Substanzen, der eklatant gestiegen ist. Ebenso problematisch sind sogenannte „legal highs“; hierbei werden noch nicht verbotene Berauschungsmittel auf den Markt gebracht und vertrieben. Für die Behörden ist ein Erfassen und Verbieten nur mit erheblicher Zeitverzögerung möglich.

„legal highs“ eingehen und derartige Substanzen erfassen und deren Konsum eindämmen?

Antwort von Frau Reding im Namen der Kommission

(11. September 2013)

Der Kommission ist bekannt, dass in der EU zunehmend neue psychoaktive Substanzen auftreten und vor allem immer mehr junge Menschen solche Substanzen konsumieren. Die rasche Ausbreitung neuer psychoaktiver Substanzen, die häufig als legale Alternativen zu international überwachten Drogen wie Kokain oder Amphetamin vermarktet werden, und die Unkenntnis ihrer akuten und langfristigen Risiken, stellt eine Gefahr für die öffentliche Gesundheit dar.

Die Kommission beabsichtigt, Legislativvorschläge zur Verschärfung der geltenden EU-Vorschriften für neue psychoaktive Substanzen vorzulegen. Mit den Vorschlägen, die auf eine Überarbeitung des bisherigen EU-Instruments, d. h. den Beschluss 2005/387/JI des Rates betreffend den Informationsaustausch, die Risikobewertung und die Kontrolle bei neuen psychoaktiven Substanzen hinauslaufen (181), soll ein schnelleres, wirksameres und angemesseneres Eingreifen auf EU-Ebene ermöglicht werden. Die Vorlage dieser Vorschläge ist im zweiten Halbjahr 2013 geplant.

Wie aus dem Europäischen Drogenbericht 2013 (182) der Europäischen Beobachtungsstelle für Drogen und Drogensucht (EMCDDA) hervorgeht, ist die Drogensituation in Europa in den letzten Jahren relativ stabil geblieben. Dem Bericht zufolge verbleibt der Drogengebrauch in der EU im historischen Vergleich zwar weiterhin auf hohem Niveau, doch sind auch positive Entwicklungen zu erkennen; so geht insbesondere der Konsum von Heroin, Kokain und Cannabis zurück. Die Berichte der Beobachtungsstelle zeigen zudem, dass infolge des wirtschaftlichen Abschwungs weniger Mittel für drogenbedingte Gesundheitsrisiken sowie Maßnahmen zur Wahrung der öffentlichen Ordnung und Sicherheit bereitgestellt werden (183) (wenngleich es erhebliche länderspezifische Unterschiede gibt), was sich ebenfalls auf die Drogensituation auswirken kann.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009211/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Drugs policy — new challenges

In Europe, 85 million people use illegal drugs; in other words drug use is at very high levels. The number of variations on the substances available has also spiralled. So-called ‘legal highs’ are equally problematic. What are still legal intoxicants are being marketed and sold and it is only after considerable delay that the authorities are able to seize and ban them.

‘legal highs’, seize such substances and curtail their use?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

The Commission is aware of the increasing emergence of new psychoactive substances in the EU, and of the growing use of such substances, particularly among young people. The rapid spread of new psychoactive substances, which are often marketed as legal alternatives to controlled substances, such as cocaine or amphetamine, and the lack of knowledge about their acute and long term risks, pose a threat to public health.

The Commission is planning to table legislative proposals to strengthen the EU response to new psychoactive substances. The aim of the proposals, which will revise the existing EU instrument, Council Decision 2005/387/JHA on the information exchange, risk-assessment and control of new psychoactive substances (184), will be to enable swifter, more effective and more proportionate action at EU level. The Commission is planning to present these legislative proposals in the second half of 2013.

The 2013 European Drug Report (185) from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) shows that the drugs situation has remained relatively stable in Europe in recent years. According to this report, while drug use remains high by historical standards in the EU, positive changes can be seen, notably a reduction in heroin injection, cocaine consumption and cannabis smoking. EMCDDA reports also indicate that the economic downturn has affected the budgets dedicated to drug-related health, public order and safety measures (186) (although there are considerable variations between countries), which can have an impact on the drugs situation.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009212/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Bluttest für Trisomie 21 — medizinethische Implikationen

Ein umstrittener Gentest zur Feststellung von Trisomie 21 während der Schwangerschaft (pränataldiagnostisches Verfahren) wird — insbesondere von Verbänden von Menschen mit Behinderung — in Politik und Medien diskutiert.

Antwort von Herrn Borg im Namen der Kommission

(12. September 2013)

Die Kommission verweist die Frau Abgeordnete auf ihre Antworten zu den schriftlichen Anfragen E-005106/2011, E-002976/2012 und E-000340/2013 zum selben Thema (187).

Die Kommission unterstützt im Übrigen seit vielen Jahren Arbeiten zur Überwachung angeborener Anomalien. Aus dem EU-Gesundheitsprogramm wird derzeit die gemeinsame Maßnahme der Mitgliedstaaten EUROCAT (188) gefördert, die ein spezielles Arbeitspaket zum pränatalen Screening, zum Down-Syndrom (Trisomie 21) und zu genetischen Syndromen umfasst. Im Rahmen von EUROCAT arbeiten die Mitgliedstaaten bei der Schulung von medizinischem Fachpersonal zusammen, das direkt mit der Diagnose und dem Screening angeborener Anomalien zu tun hat.

EUROCAT hat bisher keine Stellungnahme zum nichtinvasiven Test anhand zellfreier fetaler DNA (cffDNA) für Trisomie 21 abgegeben.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009212/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Trisomy 21 blood test — medical ethical implications

A controversial genetic test for trisomy 21 during pregnancy (prenatal diagnostic procedure) has triggered political and media debate, especially among associations for the disabled.

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(12 September 2013)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answers to Written Questions E‐007591/2012 and E-7428/2013on the same subject (189).

In addition, the Commission has supported work on the surveillance for Congentrial Anomalies for many years. Currently the EU Health Programme is supporting a Joint Action with the Member States EUROCAT (190) which includes a specific Work Package on prenatal screening, Down's syndrome (trisomy 21), and genetic syndromes. Within EUROCAT, Member States cooperate on training of health staff directly related to diagnosis and screening of congenital anomalies.

No position has been reached by EUROCAT on the non-invasive test based on cell-free foetal DNA (cffDNA) for trisomy 21.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009213/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Flexible Rentenzeitmodelle

Momentan ist die Diskussion um eine Anhebung des Rentenalters in ganz Europa aufgeflammt; Interessenverbände und Betroffene wehren sich gegen eine festgelegte Arbeitszeitgrenze, die als einzigen Faktor das Lebensalter der ArbeitnehmerInnen miteinbezieht. Studien zufolge arbeiten ältere ArbeitnehmerInnen ebenso produktiv wie ihre jüngeren Kollegen und Kolleginnen, sind in vielen Bereichen sogar grundlegend für Know-how-Transfer und Ausbildung. Ein vielfältiges Lösungscluster trägt auch individuellen Lebensentwürfen und gesundheitlichen Möglichkeiten Rechnung und erlaubt durch Modelle wie Teilzeit, Berater auf Honorarbasis, Vertretung und viele mehr einen geregelten Übergang aus dem Berufsleben.

Antwort von Herrn Andor im Namen der Kommission

(13. September 2013)

In ihrem Weißbuch über Renten und Pensionen (191) legt die Kommission ihren Standpunkt zum Renteneintrittsalter und zur Verrentungspraxis dar. Dies wird im Europäischen Semester weitergeführt, indem auf Rentenprobleme in den Jahreswachstumsberichten (192) und länderspezifischen Empfehlungen (193) eingegangen wird.

Wenn die Kommission empfiehlt, das Rentenalter entsprechend der Lebenserwartung (194) anzuheben, so bezieht sie sich auf das niedrigste Alter, mit dem eine volle Rente bezogen werden kann. Sie unterstützt indessen auch Arbeitsplatz‐ und Rentenmaßnahmen, die es den Menschen ermöglichen und ihnen Anreize geben, länger zu arbeiten und später in Rente zu gehen (195).

Seit den späten 1990er Jahren wird in den beschäftigungspolitischen Leitlinien (196) und den Initiativen für aktives Altern (197) ein angemessener Zugang zu Aus‐ und Weiterbildung für ältere Arbeitnehmer sowie die Anpassung der Arbeitsplätze und der Arbeitsorganisation empfohlen. Die länderspezifischen Empfehlungen für 2013 enthalten den Rat, die Beschäftigungsquote und das Erwerbsaustrittsalter durch Verbesserung der Beschäftigungsfähigkeit älterer Arbeitnehmer zu erhöhen, unter anderem mit Maßnahmen (198) für lebenslanges Lernen und aktives Altern.

Die Kommission teilt die Meinung, dass eine Anhebung des tatsächlichen Renteneintrittsalters helfen kann, der Finanz‐ und Wirtschaftskrise entgegenzuwirken, weil die Beschäftigung gefördert wird und der Renteneintritt später erfolgt. Die Kommission verweist die Frau Abgeordnete auch auf die Antworten auf die Fragen E‐4640/2013 und E‐6529/2013.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009213/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Flexible retirement model

Debate about a higher retirement age is currently raging throughout Europe. Interest groups and those who would be affected are resisting the introduction of a fixed working age limit based solely on the worker’s age. Studies illustrate that older workers are just as productive as their younger colleagues and are actually vital to the transfer of knowhow and training in numerous areas. A multifaceted cluster solution would also take account of individual lifestyles and health-related issues and, with models such as part-time work, fee-based consultancy, agency work and more, would allow for a regulated transition to retirement.

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2013)

The Commission's White Paper on pensions (199) sets out its position on the pensionable age and retirement practice. This is followed up through the European Semester by paying attention to retirement issues in the annual growth surveys (200) and country-specific recommendations (201) (CSRs).

When the Commission recommends raising the pensionable age in line with life expectancy (202), it is referring to the lowest age at which a full pension can be drawn. However, it also supports workplace and pension scheme measures that allow people, and offer them incentives, to continue working to a higher age and defer taking up their pensions (203).

Since the late 1990s, the Employment Guidelines (204) and Active Ageing initiatives (205) have recommended adequate access to training and upgrading for older workers and the adaptation of work places and work organisation. The 2013 CSRs advise raising the employment rate and the exit age by improving older workers’ employability, including through lifelong learning and active ageing measures (206).

The Commission agrees that increasing the effective retirement and pension take-up ages can help counter the financial and economic crisis by boosting employment and delaying pension take-up. It would also refer the Honourable Member to its answers to questions E-4640/2013 and E-6529/2013.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009214/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Kosmetik — Verbraucherschutz

Verbraucherschutzorganisationen, NGOs und Medien warnen zunehmend häufiger und dringlicher vor schädlichen Stoffen in Kosmetika; das Thema gewinnt an Brisanz, besonders im Hinblick auf die Verabschiedung der Kosmetik-Verordnung. Diese Warnungen beschäftigen sich vor allem mit einzelnen möglicherweise gefährlichen Stoffen wie Parabenen, allergieauslösenden Substanzen wie dem Konservierungsmittel Methylisothiazolinon (MI) und hormonell wirkenden Chemikalien.

„Cocktaileffekt“? Wie gedenkt sie mit der Tatsache zu verfahren, dass es zu diesem immens alltagsrelevanten Phänomen kaum wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen gibt und dementsprechend die Sicherheit der Stoffe in ihrem Zusammenspiel nicht garantiert werden kann?

Antwort von Herrn Mimica im Namen der Kommission

(12. September 2013)

Was Methylisothiazolinon anbelangt, so arbeitet die Kommission derzeit an einer Beschränkung der Verwendung dieses Stoffs in Mischung mit Chlormethylisothiazolinon und hat den SCCS um eine neue Sicherheitsbewertung ersucht. Die Kommission arbeitet ferner am Verbot bestimmter Parabene, für die Sicherheitsdaten fehlen, sowie an der Einschränkung der Verwendung von Butyl‐ und Propylparabenen im Allgemeinen; bei Kindern unter drei Jahren soll die Verwendung in auf der Haut verbleibenden Mitteln im Windelbereich verboten werden.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009214/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Cosmetics and consumer protection

Consumer associations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the media are issuing more frequent and more urgent warnings about harmful substances in cosmetics; this is becoming an explosive issue, especially in light of the new Cosmetics Regulation. These warnings mainly concern individual substances that are potentially harmful, such as parabens, allergy-triggering substances such as the preservative methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and endocrine disruptors.

‘cocktail effect’? How does it intend to address the fact that hardly any scientific investigations have been carried out into this phenomenon — which is hugely relevant to people’s daily lives — and thus the safety of interacting substances cannot be guaranteed?

Answer given by Mr Mimica on behalf of the Commission

(12 September 2013)

For methylisothiazolinone, the Commission is in the process of restricting its use as part of the mixture with methylchloroisothiazolinone and has asked the SCCS to carry out a new safety assessment. The Commission is also in the process of banning certain parabens for which safety data is missing, and restricting the use of butyl and propylparabens in general, while banning them in leave-on products for the nappy area of children less than three years old.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009215/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Genveränderte Pflanzen (Monsanto)

Der amerikanische Großkonzern Monsanto hat sein Vorhaben aufgegeben, weitere genmanipulierte Pflanzen für den europäischen Markt zulassen zu wollen. Allerdings wird eine Verlängerung der Zulassung für die Maissorte MON810 angestrebt.

Welche Haltung vertritt die Kommission zu einer Verlängerung dieser Zulassung?

Antwort von Herrn Borg im Namen der Kommission

(13. September 2013)

Die Kommission äußert sich nicht zu internen Entscheidungen von Unternehmen und hat zu der Verlautbarung der Entscheidung von Monsanto, nach und nach die Anträge auf Anbau gentechnisch veränderter Organismen in der EU zurückzuziehen, nichts zu bemerken. Zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt liegen vier Anträge von Monsanto auf GVO-Anbau vor, zu denen die EFSA befürwortende Stellungnahmen abgegeben hat und über deren Zulassung zu entscheiden ist.

Gemäß den internen Verfahren setzt die Kommission die Bearbeitung ausstehender Zulassungen für den Anbau von GVO, einschließlich MON 810, fort.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009215/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Genetically modified plants (Monsanto)

The US conglomerate Monsanto has abandoned its attempt to get further genetically modified plants approved for the European market. It is, however, seeking an extension of the approval for its MON810 maize.

Where does the Commission stand with regard to extension of this approval?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2013)

The Commission does not comment on companies' internal decisions and has no comment to make regarding the announcements made by Monsanto on its decision to progressively withdraw GM applications for cultivation in the EU. At this stage there are four Monsanto cultivation files with favourable EFSA opinion and awaiting a decision for authorisation.

In line with the internal procedures, the Commission is continuing to deal with pending authorisations for cultivation, including MON 810.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009216/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Gesundheitsgefährdung durch elektromagnetische Felder — Neubewertung

Im Juni 2012 hat die Kommission in ihrer Antwort auf die Anfrage E-004785/2012 angemerkt, dass SCENIHR um „eine Neu-Überprüfung aller wissenschaftlichen Nachweise ersucht“ wurde, die im Zusammenhang mit der Gefährdung durch extrem niederfrequente elektrische und magnetische Felder stehen. Der Hintergrund ist die Gefährdung vor allem von Kindern durch Leukämie.

Antwort von Herrn Borg im Namen der Kommission

(2. September 2013)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009216/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Health hazard posed by electromagnetic fields — reassessment

In June 2012, the Commission stated in its answer to Question E-004785/2012 that the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) had been asked to carry out ‘a new review of all the scientific evidence’ relating to the risk from extremely low frequency fields. The background to this is the risk of children in particular suffering from leukaemia.

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(2 September 2013)

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009217/13

an die Kommission (Vizepräsidentin/Hohe Vertreterin)

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: VP/HR — Situation im Kongo

Der Krieg im Kongo währt mittlerweile seit rund zwei Jahrzehnten; der Einsatz der UN wird vor allem von der ansässigen Bevölkerung immer wieder heftig kritisiert.

Antwort von Frau Ashton — Hohe Vertreterin/Vizepräsidentin im Namen der Kommission

(30. September 2013)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009217/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Situation in Congo

The war in Congo has been waging for around twenty years now and the UN mission is attracting increasingly severe criticism, especially from the local population.

(Version française)

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009218/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Entgangene Einnahmen in Griechenland

Angesichts der umfangreichen Enthüllungen über Steueroasen und „Steuerflüchtlinge“ stellt sich die Frage, inwiefern das hoch verschuldete Griechenland vom Kapitalverlust durch ausländische Anlagen betroffen ist.

Antwort von Herrn Rehn im Namen der Kommission

(5. September 2013)

Informationen der Bank of Greece zufolge haben sich die Finanzströme 2013 dank eines besseren Vertrauens in die Wirtschaft stabilisiert.

Von Januar bis Mai 2013 verzeichneten die Direktinvestitionen einen Nettozufluss von 1,1 Mrd. EUR im Vergleich zu einem Nettoabfluss in Höhe von 224 Mio. EUR im Vergleichszeitraum 2012.

Während des gleichen Zeitraums verzeichneten die Portfolio-Investitionen einen Nettoabfluss von 11,1 Mrd. EUR verglichen mit einem Nettoabfluss in Höhe von 71,9 Mrd. EUR im Vergleichszeitraum 2012.

Die Bankguthaben stiegen wieder an: Nach einem Einbruch von 240 Mrd. EUR im Januar 2010 auf 159 Mrd. EUR im Juni 2012 erreichten die Bankguthaben im Mai 2013 wieder ein Volumen von 176 Mrd. EUR.

Eine Einschätzung der Auswirkungen der veränderten Finanzströme auf die Steuererhebung ist schwierig, da die Finanzströme — im Gegensatz zu dem aus ihnen abgeleiteten Einkommen oder Verbrauch — keine wesentliche Steuergrundlage darstellen. Die Bekämpfung der Steuerflucht ist von großer Bedeutung und ein wesentlicher Bestandteil des Anpassungsprogramms.

Die laufenden Reformen der Steuerverwaltung und der Steuerpolitik sind auschlaggebend, wenn es um eine Stärkung der öffentlichen Finanzen und die Förderung von Fairness und Annahme der Reformbemühungen in der Gesellschaft geht.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009218/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Lost revenue in Greece

In view of the substantial revelations concerning tax havens and ‘tax refugees’, the question arises as to what extent Greece, which is heavily indebted, is affected by loss of capital as a result of foreign investments.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

Information from the Bank of Greece suggests that financial flows have stabilised in 2013 as confidence in the economy has picked up.

From January to May 2013, direct investment showed a net inflow of EUR 1.1 billion, compared to a net outflow of EUR 224 million in the same period of 2012.

Over the same period, portfolio investment recorded a net outflow of EUR 11.1 billion, compared to a net outflow of EUR 71.9 billion in the same period of 2012.

Bank deposits are recovering: after declining from EUR 240 billion in January 2010 to EUR 159 billion in June 2012, bank deposits reached EUR 176 billion in May 2013.

Estimating the impact of changes in financial flows on tax collection is difficult, as financial flows are not a major tax base but instead the income or consumption derived from them.

Importantly, fight against tax evasion is a critical element of the economic adjustment programme.

The ongoing reforms of tax administration and tax policy are essential to bolster public finances and the fairness and social acceptability of the reform efforts.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009219/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Επιστολή Ευρωπαϊκής Επιτροπής σε ελληνική κυβέρνηση για Cosco

Σύμφωνα με δημοσιογραφικές πληροφορίες, η Ευρωπαϊκή Επιτροπή απέστειλε στην ελληνική κυβέρνηση επιστολή 23 σημείων, ζητώντας απαντήσεις σχετικά με τις διαπραγματεύσεις που γίνονται μεταξύ της εταιρίας «Σταθμός Εμπορευματοκιβωτίων Πειραιά ΑΕ» (θυγατρική του ομίλου Cosco) και του Οργανισμού Λιμένος Πειραιά ΑΕ, για την ανάληψη κατασκευής της επέκτασης του προβλήτα ΙΙΙ στο λιμάνι του Πειραιά.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Μπορεί να διευκρινίσει ποιο είναι το περιεχόμενο και σε τι συνίσταται η επιστολή της; Ποια είναι τα 23 σημεία στα οποία αναφέρονται τα δημοσιεύματα;

Απάντηση του κ. Almunia εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(26 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Διεξάγονται συζητήσεις μεταξύ των υπηρεσιών της Επιτροπής και των ελληνικών αρχών σχετικά με τα σημεία που ανέφερε το Αξιότιμο Μέλος του Κοινοβουλίου. Ωστόσο, η Επιτροπή δεν μπορεί να δώσει διευκρινίσεις όσον αφορά ενδεχόμενη αίτηση για πληροφορίες των οποίων τα στοιχεία παραμένουν απόρρητα στον βαθμό που η διαδικασία προκαταρκτικής εξέτασης είναι εν εξελίξει.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009219/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Letter from the Commission to the Greek Government concerning Cosco

According to press reports, the Commission has sent a letter to the Greek Government containing 23 points, requesting answers to questions about the negotiations taking place between the company ‘Piraeus Container Terminal’ (a Cosco subsidiary) and Piraeus Port Authority regarding the construction of the extension to Quay III in the port of Piraeus.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Can it explain the content of the letter and say what it consists of? What are the 23 points to which the reports refer?

(Version française)

Des discussions sont en cours entre les services de la Commission et les autorités grecques concernant les éléments mentionnés par l'Honorable Parlementaire. Toutefois, la Commission ne peut apporter des précisions sur une éventuelle demande de renseignements dont les éléments restent confidentiels pour autant que la procédure d'examen préliminaire et en cours.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009220/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Αλλαγή του ελληνικού νόμου περί ομαδικών απολύσεων

Σύμφωνα με δημοσιεύματα του ελληνικού Τύπου (3.7.2013), η Τρόικα ζητά από την ελληνική κυβέρνηση να αλλάξει το νομικό πλαίσιο που διέπει τις ομαδικές απολύσεις, στην κατεύθυνση της αύξησης του ορίου που θέτει για τον αριθμό των ομαδικών απολύσεων ανά μήνα, αλλά και της κατάργησης του δικαιώματος βέτο των αρμόδιων αρχών.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Έχουν υπάρξει σχετικές συζητήσεις με την ελληνική κυβέρνηση; Μπορεί να επιβεβαιώσει ή να διαψεύσει η Επιτροπή τα ανωτέρω δημοσιεύματα;

Απάντηση του κ. Rehn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(19 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Ως μέρος των όρων πολιτικής που συνδέονται με το πρόγραμμα οικονομικής προσαρμογής για την Ελλάδα, η ελληνική κυβέρνηση συμφώνησε να προβεί στην αναθεώρηση της ισχύουσας εργασιακής νομοθεσίας. Στόχος είναι ο καθορισμός μέτρων τα οποία, με βάση τις πρόσφατες μεταρρυθμίσεις, μπορούν να συμβάλουν στην προσέλκυση επενδύσεων και στη στήριξη της δημιουργίας θέσεων εργασίας, με ταυτόχρονη ευθυγράμμιση της Ελλάδας με βέλτιστες πρακτικές άλλων χωρών και τη διασφάλιση του δικαιώματος στην εργασία. Το εν λόγω εγχείρημα αναμένεται να συμπεριλάβει τη συγκριτική αναθεώρηση ρυθμιστικών θεμάτων που αφορούν την αναδιάρθρωση εταιρειών και τις ομαδικές απολύσεις ώστε να εξασφαλιστεί η ισορροπία μεταξύ της διευκόλυνσης της αναγκαίας προσαρμογής και ενός δίκαιου επιμερισμού του βάρους της προσαρμογής μεταξύ εργαζομένων, εταιρειών και της κυβέρνησης (218).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009220/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Change in Greek law on collective redundancies

According to reports in the Greek press (3 July 2013), the Troika is urging the Greek Government to change the legal framework governing collective redundancies so as to increase the limit for the number of collective redundancies per month and also to remove the power of veto of the competent authorities.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Have there been any discussions on this matter with the Greek government? Can it confirm or deny the above reports?

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(19 September 2013)

As part of the policy conditionality attached to the economic adjustment programme for Greece, the Greek Government agreed in carrying out a review of existing labour regulations. The objective is to identify measures that, building on recent reforms, can contribute to attract investment and support job creation while aligning Greece with best practices in other countries and safeguarding the right to work. This exercise is expected to include a comparative review of regulatory issues concerning the re-structuring of companies and collective dismissals to ensure a balance between facilitating necessary adjustment and a fair sharing of the burden of adjustment between workers, firms and the Government (219).

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009221/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: ΠΕΠ Δυτικής Ελλάδας-Ιονίων Νήσων-Πελοποννήσου

Η ελληνική οικονομία διανύει την 5η χρονιά συνεχόμενης ύφεσης, με την ανεργία να φτάνει σε επίπεδα ρεκόρ και τις ελληνικές περιφέρειες να καταστρέφονται οικονομικά και κοινωνικά. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, για την Περιφέρεια Δυτικής Ελλάδας, για τα Ιόνια Νησιά και για την Πελοπόννησο, σύμφωνα με τα στοιχεία της Eurostat, η ανεργία ανήλθε σε 25,5%, 14,7% και 19,9%, αντίστοιχα.

Με δεδομένα τα παραπάνω, αλλά και το γεγονός ότι η αξιοποίηση και η καλύτερη χρήση των κοινοτικών κονδυλίων και συγκεκριμένα των Περιφερειακών Επιχειρησιακών Προγραμμάτων θα μπορούσαν να βοηθήσουν στην ανάσχεση της οικονομικής κατάρρευσης των ελληνικών περιφερειών, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Hahn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(16 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

DEPIN. Τον Αύγουστο 2013 το ποσοστό απορρόφησης της Ελλάδας ανερχόταν στο 67,46%, ενώ ο μέσος όρος της ΕΕ ανέρχεται σε 56,10%.

Οι καθυστερήσεις στα διάφορα έργα στις περισσότερες περιπτώσεις οφείλονται στις χρηματοπιστωτικές δυσκολίες των τελικών δικαιούχων που προκάλεσε η οικονομική κρίση, στη διαδικασία υποβολής προσφορών για συμβάσεις και στις χρονοβόρες διαδικασίες απαλλοτρίωσης ή σε θέματα αδειοδότησης.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009221/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: ROP for Western Greece — the Ionian Islands — the Peloponnese

The Greek economy is in its fifth consecutive year of recession, with unemployment reaching record levels and the Greek regions being destroyed economically and socially. More specifically, according to Eurostat data, in the Region of Western Greece, the Ionian Islands and Peloponnese unemployment has risen to 25.5%, 14.7% and 19.9%, respectively.

Given the above, and the fact that the utilisation or better use of EU funds, in particular the Regional Operational Programmes, could help check the economic collapse of the Greek regions, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(16 September 2013)

1. The Honourable Member will find attached in the annex relevant information as of August 2013 of the absorption per region and axis for the Operational programme DEPIN. In August 2013 the absorption rate of Greece stands at 67,46% while the EU average is at 56,10%.

The reasons for the delays in the various projects are in most cases mainly due to the financial difficulties of the final beneficiaries caused by the economic crisis, the tender procedure for contracts and the long procedures of expropriations or licencing issues.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009222/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Πορεία υλοποίησης του Προγράμματος «Αλέξανδρος Μπαλτατζής»

Το συγχρηματοδοτούμενο από το Ευρωπαϊκό Γεωργικό Ταμείο Αγροτικής Ανάπτυξης, Πρόγραμμα Αγροτικής Ανάπτυξης της Ελλάδας για την περίοδο 2007-2013, «Αλέξανδρος Μπαλτατζής», αποτελεί τη μοναδική δυνατότητα επενδύσεων στον αγροτικό τομέα. Ωστόσο, η ιδιαίτερα δυσμενής κατάσταση της ελληνικής οικονομίας και, κατ' επέκταση, των παραγωγών γεωργικών και κτηνοτροφικών προϊόντων, η αύξηση του κόστους παραγωγής και η συνεχής πτώση του διαθέσιμου εισοδήματος, έχουν δημιουργήσει ένα τοπίο κάθε άλλο παρά ευοίωνο για τον αγροτικό κόσμο της Ελλάδας.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Ποια είναι η μέχρι σήμερα πορεία υλοποίησης (νομικές δεσμεύσεις — απορρόφηση) του προγράμματος «Αλέξανδρος Μπαλτατζής» ανά μέτρο και άξονα; Ποια είναι τα συγκριτικά στοιχεία με τα υπόλοιπα κράτη μέλη; Ποια είναι τα σημαντικότερα προβλήματα στην ομαλή εκτέλεση και απορρόφηση του προγράμματος;

Απάντηση του κ. Cioloș εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(5 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Την 1η Αυγούστου 2013, το ποσοστό εκτέλεσης του ελληνικού προγράμματος αγροτικής ανάπτυξης (ΠΑΑ) 2007-2013 ήταν 52,94 %:

Το μέσο ποσοστό εκτέλεσης των ΠΑΑ-EΕ27 είναι 69,06% και περιλαμβάνει τις προκαταβολές.

Το ποσοστό εκτέλεσης του ελληνικού ΠΑΑ δεν προχωρά τόσο γρήγορα όσο τα υπόλοιπα ΠΑΑ της ΕΕ-27 το 2013. Αυτό οφείλεται κυρίως στην επιβράδυνση του ενδιαφέροντος για τις επενδύσεις στην Ελλάδα, καθώς και στη στενότητα πιστώσεων στη χώρα που επηρεάζει επίσης τους επενδυτές του ελληνικού ΠΑΑ. Τα δημόσια έργα και τα έργα των οργανισμών τοπικής αυτοδιοίκησης εκτελούνται με βραδύτερο ρυθμό και, κατά συνέπεια, υπάρχουν λιγότερες αιτήσεις για πληρωμές στο πλαίσιο του ελληνικού ΠΑΑ. Από την άλλη πλευρά, τα πολυετή μέτρα του προγράμματος, κυρίως αγροπεριβαλλοντικού χαρακτήρα, προχωρούν αρκετά ικανοποιητικά.

Στο παράρτημα I παρατίθεται το ποσοστό εκτέλεσης ανά μέτρο για το ελληνικό ΠΑΑ και τα ΠΑΑ της ΕΕ-27. Το ποσοστό εκτέλεσης ενός μέτρου εξαρτάται από πολλούς παράγοντες (μεταξύ άλλων, από τη δομή παράδοσης, το θεσμικό πλαίσιο, τις εθνικές διαδικασίες, τα συμφέροντα των δικαιούχων, την πρόσβαση σε πιστώσεις), οι οποίοι ποικίλλουν σημαντικά μεταξύ των περιφερειών και των κρατών μελών.

Οι εκθέσεις προόδου που εκπονούνται ετησίως από τη διαχειριστική αρχή περιγράφουν, μεταξύ άλλων, τα προβλήματα υλοποίησης και τις προτεινόμενες λύσεις. Όσον αφορά την Ελλάδα, οι εκθέσεις αυτές είναι διαθέσιμες στον δικτυακό τόποhttp://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/index.php?obj=c731077c04035ac9

Δεν υπάρχουν διαθέσιμα στοιχεία σε επίπεδο Επιτροπής σχετικά με νομικές δεσμεύσεις σε επίπεδο προγράμματος.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009222/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Progress in implementing the ‘Alexander Baltatzis’ Programme

The ‘Alexander Baltatzis’ Rural Development Programme for Greece for the period 2007-2013, which is co-funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, constitutes the sole possibility for investing in the agricultural sector. However, the particularly unfavourable state of the Greek economy and, by extension, the plight of producers of agricultural and livestock products, increasing production costs and the steady decline in disposable income have created a climate that is anything but propitious for the rural world in Greece.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

What progress has so far been made in implementing (legal commitments — take-up) the ‘Alexander Baltatzis’ Programme by measure and axis? What are the comparative data in other Member States? What are the main problems in the smooth implementation and take-up of the programme?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

The Greek 2007-13 Rural Development Programme (GR-RDP) had an implementation rate of 52.94% on 1 August 2013:

The average implementation rate of the EU-27-RDPs is 69.06% and include payments on account.

The GR-RDP implementation rate has not been advancing as fast as for other RDPs of the EU-27 in 2013. This is mostly due to the slowdown of the interest for investments in Greece as well as to the credit crunch in the country which also affects investors of the GR-RDP. Public projects and projects of local authorities are being implemented at a slower rhythm and hence present fewer requests for payments to the GR-RDP. On the other hand multiannual measures of the programme, mostly agrienvironmental, are advancing quite well.

Annex I shows the implementation rate per measure for the GR-RDP and the EU-27-RDPs. The implementation rate of a measure depends on many factors (amongst others, delivery structure, institutional framework, national procedures, interest of beneficiaries, access to credit), which vary considerably between Regions and Member States.

Progress reports prepared annually by the Managing Authority describe amongst others, the implementation problems and solutions proposed. For Greece, these reports can be consulted at: http://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/index.php?obj=c731077c04035ac9

No information is available at Commission level on legal commitments at programme level.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009223/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Στοιχεία εκκαθάρισης λογαριασμών ΕΓΤΕ/ΕΓΤΑΑ

Στην ερώτησή μου Ε-009030/2012, σχετικά με τα στοιχεία εκκαθάρισης λογαριασμών του Ευρωπαϊκού Γεωργικού Ταμείου Ενισχύσεων (ΕΓΤΕ) και του Ευρωπαϊκού Γεωργικού Ταμείου Αγροτικής Ανάπτυξης (ΕΓΤΑΑ), η Επιτροπή είχε απαντήσει ότι, με την απόφαση C(2012)4293 της 28.6.2012, είχε αποφασίσει την αναβολή της εκτέλεσης των δημοσιονομικών διορθώσεων, σύμφωνα με το αίτημα της ελληνικής κυβέρνησης τον Μάιο του ίδιου χρόνου, μέχρι την 31.12.2013.

Στην ίδια απάντηση, η Επιτροπή σημείωνε ότι, μέχρι το τέλος του 2013 «θα προκύψουν συνολικά 392 εκατ. ευρώ από αναβληθείσες δημοσιονομικές διορθώσεις (μη συμπεριλαμβανομένων των τυχόν πρόσθετων διορθώσεων οι οποίες θα περιληφθούν σε άλλες αποφάσεις συμμόρφωσης που θα εκδοθούν ενδιάμεσα)».

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Cioloş εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(24 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

<NOT.NUMBERED>1. και 2.</NOT.NUMBERED> Από το 2007, η Επιτροπή έλαβε 19 αποφάσεις για τον αποκλεισμό από τη χρηματοδότηση της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης ορισμένων δαπανών που προκύπτουν για τα κράτη μέλη στο πλαίσιο του Τμήματος Εγγυήσεων του Ευρωπαϊκού Γεωργικού Ταμείου Προσανατολισμού και Εγγυήσεων (ΕΓΤΠΕ), του Ευρωπαϊκού Γεωργικού Ταμείου Εγγυήσεων (ΕΓΤΕ) και του Ευρωπαϊκού Γεωργικού Ταμείου Αγροτικής Ανάπτυξης (ΕΓΤΑΑ).

Η Επιτροπή αποστέλλει απευθείας στο Αξιότιμο Μέλος και στη γραμματεία του Κοινοβουλίου λεπτομερή στοιχεία για τις δημοσιονομικές διορθώσεις για κάθε κράτος μέλος και τον κατάλογο των Επίσημων Εφημερίδων της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης στις οποίες δημοσιεύθηκαν οι αποφάσεις για τις δημοσιονομικές διορθώσεις.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009223/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Clearance of EAGGF and EAFRD accounts

In its answer to my Question E-009030/2012 on clearance of European Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF) and European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) accounts, the Commission stated that through Decision C (2012) 4293 of 28.6.2012 it had decided to defer, until 31.12.2013, the execution of the financial correction in accordance with the request made by the Greek Government in May.

In the same answer, the Commission had noted that, by the end of 2013 ‘there will be a total of EUR 392 million in deferred financial corrections (not including any additional corrections which will be included in other conformity decisions which will be adopted in the meantime).’

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(24 September 2013)

1 and 2. Since 2007, the Commission has taken 19 decisions on excluding from European Union financing certain expenditure incurred by the Member States under the Guarantee Section of the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF), under the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

The Commission is sending directly to the Honourable Member and to Parliament secretariat the details of the financial corrections by Member States and the list of Official Journals of the European Union where the decisions on financial corrections have been published.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009224/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Πρόβλεψη στην τροποποίηση του κανονισμού 562/2006 (κώδικας συνόρων του Σένγκεν)

Στο προοίμιο της τροποποίησης του Κανονισμού (ΕΚ) αριθ. 562/2006, του κανονισμού Σένγκεν, όπως εγκρίθηκε από το Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο στις 12.6.2013, προβλέπεται ότι «Σε περιπτώσεις εμμενουσών σοβαρών ανεπαρκειών … του κεκτημένου Σένγκεν] … θα πρέπει να θεσπισθεί ένας ευρωπαϊκός μηχανισμός για την επαναφορά προσωρινής και κατ' εξαίρεσιν άσκησης συνοριακού ελέγχου στα εσωτερικά σύνορα …, η Επιτροπή θα πρέπει να διαβιβάζει στο Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο και το Συμβούλιο σύσταση όπου θα αξιολογείται η ανάγκη της επαναφοράς της άσκησης συνοριακού ελέγχου στα εσωτερικά σύνορα ως έσχατο μέτρο.».

Το Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο και το Συμβούλιο θα πρέπει να υποβάλουν τις γνωμοδοτήσεις τους εντός ενός μηνός από την παραλαβή της σύστασης της Επιτροπής, διάστημα μετά το οποίο η Επιτροπή θα πρέπει να είναι σε θέση να αποφασίσει για την επαναφορά της άσκησης συνοριακού ελέγχου στα εσωτερικά σύνορα μέσω εκτελεστικών πράξεων, σύμφωνα με τον κανονισμό (ΕΕ) αριθ. 182/2011 «Βάσει των όρων του άρθρου 2 παράγραφος 2 στοιχείο β) σημείο iii) του εν λόγω κανονισμού, για την έγκριση των εκτελεστικών αυτών πράξεων θα πρέπει να χρησιμοποιείται η διαδικασία εξέτασης.».

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Μπορεί να εξηγήσει πώς αντιλαμβάνεται την παραπάνω πρόβλεψη; Όταν ισχύσει η εν λόγω τροποποίηση, η Επιτροπή θα είναι σε θέση να αποφασίσει για την επαναφορά της άσκησης συνοριακού ελέγχου στα εσωτερικά σύνορα κρατών μελών μέσω εκτελεστικών πράξεων ακόμα και με την αντίθετη γνώμη των κρατών αυτών;

Απάντηση της κ. Malmström εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(25 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Το νομοθετικό ψήφισμα που ενέκρινε το Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο στις 12 Ιουνίου 2013 αναφέρει στο άρθρο 26 ότι «σε εξαιρετικές περιστάσεις, όταν η συνολική λειτουργία του χώρου χωρίς ελέγχους στα εσωτερικά σύνορα, τίθεται σε κίνδυνο, ως αποτέλεσμα των συνεχιζόμενων σοβαρών αδυναμιών που συνδέονται με τον έλεγχο των εξωτερικών συνόρων […], και στο μέτρο που αυτές οι περιστάσεις αποτελούν σοβαρή απειλή για τη δημόσια τάξη ή την εσωτερική ασφάλεια εντός του χώρου χωρίς εσωτερικά σύνορα ή τμήματα αυτών, ο έλεγχος στα εσωτερικά σύνορα μπορεί να επανεισαχθεί […] (226)».

Όσον αφορά τη διαδικασία, το «Συμβούλιο μπορεί να συστήσει σε ένα ή περισσότερα συγκεκριμένα κράτη μέλη να αποφασίσουν την επαναφορά των ελέγχων σε όλα ή συγκεκριμένα τμήματα των εσωτερικών συνόρων τους. Η σύσταση του Συμβουλίου στηρίζεται σε πρόταση της Επιτροπής. […].

Σε περίπτωση που η σύσταση δεν εφαρμοστεί από κράτος μέλος, το εν λόγω κράτος μέλος ενημερώνει αμέσως την Επιτροπή γραπτώς σχετικά με τους λόγους του».

Οι εκτελεστικές αρμοδιότητες, συνεπώς, δεν έχουν ανατεθεί στην Επιτροπή, γεγονός που αντικατοπτρίζεται και στην αιτιολογική σκέψη 8α, η οποία αναφέρει ότι «λόγω του πολιτικά ευαίσθητου χαρακτήρα των μέτρων αυτών που αφορούν τις εθνικές εκτελεστικές και τις εξουσίες επιβολής του νόμου όσον αφορά τον έλεγχο στα εσωτερικά σύνορα, οι εκτελεστικές αρμοδιότητες ως προς την έγκριση συστάσεων στο πλαίσιο της παρούσας ειδικής διαδικασίας σε επίπεδο Ένωσης θα πρέπει να ανατεθούν στο Συμβούλιο, αποφασίζοντας μετά από πρόταση της Επιτροπής».

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009224/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Provision in the amendment to Regulation 562/2006 (Schengen Borders Code)

The preamble to the amendment of Regulation (EC) No 562/2006, the Schengen Regulation, as adopted by the European Parliament on 12.6.2013, provides that: ‘For cases of persistent serious deficiencies … of the Schengen acquis] …, a European mechanism for the reintroduction of temporary and exceptional border control at internal borders should be established. Under that mechanism, the Commission should transmit to the European Parliament and to the Council a recommendation assessing the necessity for the reintroduction of border control at internal borders as a measure of last resort.’

The European Parliament and the Council should present their opinions within one month of receipt of the Commission's recommendation, after which the Commission should be able to decide on the reintroduction of border control at internal borders by way of implementing acts, in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. ‘In view of the terms of Article 2(2)(b)(iii) of that regulation, the examination procedure should be used for the adoption of those implementing acts.’

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Can it explain how it understands the above provision? When this amendment enters into effect, will the Commission be able to decide on the reintroduction of border controls at the internal borders of Member States by means of implementing acts even if the States in question disagree?

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(25 September 2013)

The legislative resolution adopted by the European Parliament on 12 June 2013 states in its Article 26 that ‘in exceptional circumstances where the overall functioning of the area without internal border controls is put at risk as a result of persistent serious deficiencies related to external border control […], and insofar as these circumstances constitute a serious threat to public policy or internal security within the area without internal border controls or parts thereof , border control at internal borders may be reintroduced […] (227)’.

As far as the procedure is concerned, ‘the Council may […] recommend for one or more specific Member States to decide to reintroduce border control at all or specific parts of its internal borders. The Council's recommendation shall be based on a proposal from the Commission. […].

In the event that the recommendation is not implemented by a Member State, that Member State shall without delay inform the Commission in writing of its reasons’.

The implementing powers have thus not been entrusted to the Commission, which is also reflected in Recital 8a, which states that ‘in view of the politically sensitive nature of such measures which touch on national executive and enforcement powers regarding the control at internal borders, implementing powers to adopt recommendations under this specific Union-level procedure should be conferred on the Council, acting on a proposal from the Commission’.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-009225/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Ανάγκη μελέτης της κατάστασης υγείας των κατοίκων στην περιοχή του ΧΥΤΑ Φυλής

Στην Αττική, στην περιοχή της Φυλής, λειτουργεί χώρος «δήθεν» Υγειονομικής Ταφής απορριμμάτων (ΧΥΤΑ), όπου αποτίθενται σύμμικτα τα απορρίμματα όλης της Αττικής για πολλές δεκαετίες.

Οι κάτοικοι της περιοχής Φυλής και Άνω Λιοσίων παρατηρούν για χρόνια την αύξηση περιστατικών καρκίνου και την υποβάθμιση της κατάστασης της υγείας των κατοίκων και των εργαζομένων της περιοχής.

Ταυτόχρονα, εμφανίζονται μελέτες και έρευνες από τις οποίες προκύπτει ότι, πέριξ του ΧΥΤΑ, σε μεγάλη διασπορά, καταγράφονται σε υψηλές συγκεντρώσεις, καρκινογόνα και άλλα επικίνδυνα στοιχεία που οφείλονται στην λειτουργία του ΧΥΤΑ. Μεταξύ των ερευνών είναι και αυτή της Ειδικής Υπηρεσίας Επιθεωρητών Περιβάλλοντος (19.9.2012), που καταγράφει «υψηλές συγκεντρώσεις εξασθενούς χρωμίου».

Οι κάτοικοι ζητούν επίμονα εδώ και χρόνια την διενέργεια τοξικολογικών, υγειονολογικών, επιδημιολογικών ερευνών-μελετών, προκειμένου να μελετηθεί η επίπτωση στην υγεία τους από την λειτουργία του ΧΥΤΑ. Μέχρι τώρα, οι αρμόδιες αρχές, δεν δίνουν καμία απάντηση στα συνεχή αιτήματα, γεγονός που έχει δημιουργήσει την πεποίθηση στους κατοίκους ότι η διενέργεια των εν λόγω μελετών δεν είναι επιθυμητή και ότι αποκρύπτονται στοιχεία.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Γνωρίζει αν υπάρχουν ή αν έχουν χρηματοδοτηθεί στο παρελθόν μελέτες, για την περιοχή, που να συνδέονται με το ανωτέρω ζήτημα;

Αν όχι, υπάρχουν διαθέσιμα κονδύλια τα οποία θα μπορούσαν να ζητηθούν από τις αρχές ή άλλους φορείς προκειμένου να πραγματοποιηθούν μελέτες σχετικά με τις επιπτώσεις στην υγεία των κατοίκων από την λειτουργία του χώρου ταφής και των λοιπών δραστηριοτήτων διαχείρισης απορριμμάτων;

Απάντηση του κ. Potočnik εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(18 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Δεν υπάρχει πρόσφατη μελέτη η οποία να έχει χρηματοδοτηθεί ή συγχρηματοδοτηθεί από την Επιτροπή όσον αφορά προβλήματα υγείας των κατοίκων που εικάζεται ότι οφείλονται στον χώρο υγειονομικής ταφής απορριμμάτων στην περιοχή της Φυλής.

Δεν υπάρχουν χρηματοδοτικά μέσα της ΕΕ τα οποία να επιτρέπουν τη χρηματοδότηση τέτοιου είδους μελετών που διεξάγονται από τις εθνικές αρχές ή άλλους φορείς.

Σύμφωνα με τους κανονισμούς των διαρθρωτικών ταμείων, ο σχεδιασμός, η προετοιμασία, η εφαρμογή, η παρακολούθηση, ο έλεγχος και η αξιολόγηση συγχρηματοδοτούμενων παρεμβάσεων στο πλαίσιο των επιχειρησιακών προγραμμάτων εμπίπτουν στην αρμοδιότητα των εθνικών αρχών, στο πιο κατάλληλο γεωγραφικό επίπεδο και σύμφωνα με το θεσμικό σύστημα κάθε κράτους μέλους.

Έτσι, με βάση την αρχή της επικουρικότητας και τους κανόνες επιλεξιμότητας για τα διαρθρωτικά ταμεία, οι ελληνικές αρχές είναι αρμόδιες να εξασφαλίζουν τη διενέργεια κατάλληλων μελετών σε συνδυασμό με την κατασκευή υποδομών συγχρηματοδοτούμενων από το ΕΤΠΑ ή το Ταμείο Συνοχής.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009225/13

to the Commission

Nikolaos Chountis (GUE/NGL)

(29 July 2013)

Subject: Need for health studies for residents of the Fyli landfill area

Fyli in Attica is the site of a supposedly hygienic landfill where composite waste from all over Attica has been dumped for many decades.

Local residents of Fyli and Ano Liosia have for years seen an increase in the incidence of cancer and a deterioration of their health and that of workers in the area.

At the same time, studies and surveys have appeared showing that high concentrations of carcinogenic and other dangerous substances resulting from the operation of the landfill are widely dispersed around the landfill site. One such survey is that of the Special Environmental Inspectorate (19 September 2012) which records ‘high concentrations of hexavalent chromium’.

For years, residents have been persistently demanding toxicological, health and epidemiological surveys and studies in order to study the impact on health of the operation of the landfill. So far the competent authorities have failed to respond to these repeated demands, which has convinced residents that such studies are undesirable and that information is being withheld.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Does it know whether any relevant studies exist for this area or whether any such studies have been funded in the past?

If not, are any funds available which could be requested by the authorities or other bodies in order to commission studies on the impact on residents' health of the operation of the landfill and other waste management activities?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(18 September 2013)

There is no recent study funded or co-funded by the Commission related to human health issues allegedly caused by the Fyli landfill area.

There are no EU financial instruments which allow financing of this type of studies to be carried out by national authorities or other bodies.

Under the Structural Funds Regulations, the design, preparation, implementation, monitoring, audit and evaluation of co-funded interventions under the operational programmes fall under the responsibility of the national authorities, at the most appropriate territorial level and according to the institutional system of each Member State.

As such, on the basis of the subsidiarity principle and the eligibility rules for structural funds, the Greek authorities are responsible for ensuring that appropriate studies associated with infrastructures co-financed by the ERDF or the Cohesion Fund are undertaken.

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-009226/13

au Conseil

Rachida Dati (PPE)

(29 juillet 2013)

Objet: Pour un accord rapide sur le paquet «protection des données»

Les récentes révélations sur l'existence du programme américain de transfert des données «PRISM», et sur l'utilisation qui en serait faite par les autorités américaines, rappellent que le respect de la vie privée est une question qui interpelle tout particulièrement les Européens.

C'est aussi une source d'inquiétude pour les entreprises européennes qui dépendent de la confiance de leurs clients dans la collecte de données.

Après les questions qui se sont posées dans le cadre des accords SWIFT et PNR et alors que nous entamons des négociations importantes pour l'avenir et la compétitivité de l'Europe, PRISM ne doit pas être une cause d'érosion de la confiance des Européens en notre partenaire américain. Il s'agit, bien au contraire, de trouver un juste équilibre entre sécurité et utilisation des données privées.