91998E3743

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3743/98

by Maartje van Putten (PSE) to the Commission

(11 December 1998)

Subject: EU aid to France for the "Route forestière du Port des Moines" in Morvan (Burgundy)

1. Is the Commission aware of the deforestation taking place in various parts of the "Route forestière du Port des Moines", that the deforestation involves species of conifers, that water resources in the area are affected and that the natural values of the area are impaired and a drought is occurring as a result?

2. What are the Commission's views of the affect on natural values in the regional natural park in the light of the fact that the region receives European financing via the structural funds (SPD Burgundy, Objective 5a regions 1994-1999, EAGGF money)?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(2 February 1999)

The operational programmes part-financed by the Structural Funds in rural areas (Objective 5(b)) are implemented in a decentralised manner by the regional authorities responsible for selecting the projects. The Burgundy region authorities consulted by the Commission have informed it of difficulties in identifying the "Route forestière du Port des Moines". To allow a more detailed reply to the question raised, more precise geographical references are required (name of the commune and of the forest in question).