(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-002117/12

an die Kommission

Daniel Cohn-Bendit (Verts/ALE)

(22. Februar 2012)

Betrifft: Troika — durchgesickerte Fassung der Analyse der Troika zur Tragfähigkeit der Schuldenlage (ATS)

Dem grundlegenden Szenario der Erklärung der Eurogruppe vom 21. Februar 2012 zufolge sollte durch Beiträge des privaten und öffentlichen Sektors „sichergestellt werden, dass die öffentliche Schuldenquote Griechenlands auf einen rückläufigen Weg gebracht wird und bis 2020 120,5 % des BIP erreicht“. Eine durchgesickerte Fassung eines Entwurfs der Troika zu einer vorläufigen Analyse zur Tragfähigkeit der Schuldenlage wirft jedoch sehr ernste Zweifel daran auf, ob mit der erreichten Vereinbarung deren Ziele erreicht werden können. Würde die Kommission die Existenz des oben genannten Dokuments und der oben genannten Bewertung bestätigen?

In dem Bericht wird insbesondere dargelegt, dass „es eine fundamentale Spannung zwischen den Programmzielen Schuldenabbau und Verbesserung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit gibt, so dass es aufgrund der internen Entwertung, die zur Wiederherstellung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit Griechenlands erforderlich wäre, kurzfristig unvermeidlich zu einer höheren Schuldenquote kommen wird (…). Dies würde bei der Entwicklung der Schulden zu einer sehr viel höheren Kurve mit einer Schuldenquote von bis zu 160 % im Jahr 2020 führen. Angesichts der Risiken könnte das griechische Programm daher weiter störungsanfällig bleiben und von Zweifeln an seiner Tragfähigkeit überschattet werden.“ In einem derartigen Szenario würde sich der Finanzierungsbedarf des öffentlichen Sektors Griechenlands bis 2020 auf etwa 245 Mrd. EUR belaufen. Selbst nach ordnungsgemäßer Berücksichtigung von Zusatzmaßnahmen, die die bereits in der ATS integrierten Maßnahmen ergänzen, kommt es bei einem vernünftigen Szenario, in das die in der ATS aufgeführten Risiken einbezogen werden, höchstwahrscheinlich nicht zu einer Schuldenquote unter 150 %.

— Kann die Kommission erläutern, warum sie das Ziel von 120,5 % für glaubwürdig hält?

— Warum ignoriert die Erklärung der Eurogruppe in der Bewertung der ATS aufgeführte Abwärtsrisiken und kommt daher zu einer übermäßig optimistischen Prognose?

— Welche Maßnahmen hat die Kommission für den Fall geplant, dass die in der ATS dargelegten Risiken tatsächlich eintreten?

— Wie plant die Kommission bei Eintritt der Abwärtsrisiken die potenziell gewaltigen finanziellen Verluste für Mitgliedstaaten und EFSF abzumildern?

— Wie kann die Kommission behaupten, dass unter diesen Umständen in den Jahren unmittelbar nach dem Programm der Marktzugang wiederhergestellt werden kann?

— Welche Maßnahmen sind im Hinblick auf die grundlegende Spannung zwischen den Programmzielen Schuldenabbau und Verbesserung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit vorgesehen?

— Gibt die Kommission zu, dass die Prognosen für die ersten beiden Pakete finanzieller Unterstützung für Griechenland in gefährlicher Weise übermäßig optimistisch waren und sowohl für die EU-Steuerzahler als auch für die griechischen Bürger zu unverhältnismäßig hohen Kosten geführt haben?

Antwort von Herrn Rehn im Namen der Kommission

(17. April 2012)

Die Verhandlungen über das neue Programm, welche die Kommission und ihre Troika-Partner mit den griechischen Behörden geführt haben, hatten zum Ziel, die notwendige Haushaltkonsolidierung und interne Abwertung mit dem sozialen Zusammenhalt und den wachstumsfördernden Reformen in Einklang zu bringen, um die Herausforderungen der griechischen Wettbewerbsfähigkeit und eines tragfähigen Schuldenstandes zu meistern. Die Ergebnisse basieren auch auf den Erfahrungen, die bei der Umsetzung des ersten Programms gesammelt wurden. Vor allem war in den Wachstumsprognosen zu Beginn des ersten Programms das Ausmaß der Rezession unterschätzt worden.

In jedem Fall liegt es auf der Hand, dass ein nachhaltiges Wachstum ohne tragfähige öffentliche Finanzen nicht möglich ist. Die für 2020 angestrebte Schuldenquote von 120 Prozent ist nach der erfolgreichen Umschuldung und den zusätzlichen Maßnahmen zur Beteiligung des privaten und des öffentlichen Sektors, die anlässlich ihres Treffens am 20. und 21. Februar 2012 von der Euro-Gruppe beschlossen wurden, nun glaubwürdiger geworden. Die jüngste Schuldentragfähigkeitsanalyse prognostiziert für 2020 eine Schuldenquote von 116,5 Prozent.

Die Kommission war in ihren Berichten über die Einhaltung der Verpflichtungen immer um eine faire und ausgewogene Präsentation der Programmrisiken bemüht — dies gilt auch für das neue Programm:http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/eu_borrower/greek_loan_facility/index_en.htm

Die Umsetzung des Programms ist für Griechenland, auch zur Wiederherstellung des Marktzugangs, entscheidend. Mechanismen zur Reduzierung der Abwärtsrisiken sind ebenfalls vorgesehen: Die Kapazitäten zur Überwachung vor Ort werden verstärkt und die Task-Force Griechenland wird eine nachhaltige technische Unterstützung zur Verfügung stellen.

Die Staats‐ und Regierungschefs des Euro-Raums haben am 2. März 2012 noch einmal ihre Absicht und ihre Bereitschaft unterstrichen, alles Nötige zu tun, um die finanzielle Stabilität im gesamten Euro-Raum zu gewährleisten:http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/128521.pdf

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002117/12

to the Commission

Daniel Cohn-Bendit (Verts/ALE)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Troika-leaked version of the Troika Debt sustainability analysis (DSA)

The baseline scenario of the Eurogroup statement of 21 February 2012 affirms that contributions from the private and the official sector ‘should ensure that Greece’s public debt ratio is brought on a downward path reaching 120.5 % of GDP by 2020’. However, a leaked version of a preliminary debt sustainability analysis drafted by the Troika throws very serious doubts on the capacity of the deal achieved to reach its objectives. Would the Commission confirm the existence of the document and the assessment mentioned above?

The report points out in particular that, ‘there is a fundamental tension between the program objectives of reducing debt and improving competitiveness, in that the internal devaluation needed to restore Greece competitiveness will inevitably lead to a higher debt to GDP ratio in the near term (…) This would result in a much higher debt trajectory, leaving debt as high as 160 % of GDP in 2020. Given the risks, the Greek program may thus remain accident-prone, with questions about sustainability hanging over it’. In such a scenario, Greek public sector financing needs up to 2020 would amount to around EUR 245 billion. Even after taking proper account of additional measures which were added to the measures already integrated in the DSA, a prudent scenario integrating risks foreseen in the DSA is highly unlikely to lead to a debt to GDP ratio below 150 %.

— Can the Commission explain why it deems the 120.5 % target to be credible?

— Why does the Eurogroup statement ignore downside risks enumerated in the DSA assessment, leading therefore to an over-optimistic forecast?

— What measures has the Commission planned should the risks highlighted in the DSA actually materialise?

— How does the Commission propose, if those downsize risks materialise, to mitigate potentially massive financial losses for Member States and the EFSF?

— How can the Commission argue that under such conditions market access can be restored in the immediate post-programme years?

— What measures are envisaged to address the fundamental tension between the programme objectives of reducing debt and improving competitiveness?

— Does the Commission admit that forecasts contained in the first two packages of financial assistance for Greece were dangerously over-optimistic, leading to excessive costs for both EU taxpayers and Greek citizens?

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(17 April 2012)

The negotiations of the Commission and its Troika partners with the Greek authorities on the new programme aimed to reconcile the necessary fiscal consolidation and internal devaluation with social cohesion and growth enhancing reforms to address the challenges of Greek competitiveness and debt sustainability. The outcome also builds on the lessons learned from the implementation of the first programme. In particular, the growth forecasts at the outset of the first programme underestimated the depth of the recession.

It is clear though that there can be no sustainable growth without sustainable public finances. The targeted debt-to-GDP level of 120 % by 2020 has become more credible following the successful debt exchange and the additional measures for private and official sector involvement agreed by the Eurogroup at its meeting of 20 and 21 February 2012. The latest Debt Sustainability Analysis projects a debt level of 116.5 % of GDP by 2020.

The Commission has always endeavoured to present a fair and balanced presentation of the programme risks in its compliance reports including for the new programme: http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/eu_borrower/greek_loan_facility/index_en.htm

Programme implementation will be key for Greece including to re-gain market access. Mechanisms will be put in place to reduce the downside risks: the monitoring capacity on the ground will be strengthened and substantial technical assistance will be provided by the Task Force Greece.

Euro area Heads of State and Government underlined once again on 2 March 2012 their determination to do whatever is needed to ensure the financial stability of the euro area as a whole, and their readiness to act accordingly: http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/128521.pdf

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002118/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(22 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Spanair

El pasado 27 de enero de 2012 la compañía aérea Spanair cesó sus operaciones debido al cierre de la compañía (92).

Durante la semana anterior al cierre, se publicaron diferentes noticias sobre la posible ampliación de capital de Spanair con Qatar Airways (93). Al mismo tiempo, el presidente de Iberia declaró que la compañía Spanair ₫no tenía futuro₻.

El mismo día 27 de enero de 2012, se publica que Qatar Airways abandona las negociaciones de invertir en Spanair ante la posible sanción por parte de la Comisión Europea por las subvenciones recibidas por parte de las administraciones públicas (94).

En unas declaraciones realizadas el pasado 3 de febrero de 2012 a la emisora Catalunya Ràdio, el Vicepresidente de la Comisión Europea y Comisario de Competencia explicó que la Comisión recibió dos quejas en diciembre y sostuvo que la investigación sigue su curso, aunque está ₫en los primeros pasos₻, por lo que declinó anticipar el resultado de ese proceso.

Si como dice el Vicepresidente de la Comisión y Comisario de Competencia, la investigación está ₫en los primeros pasos₻, ¿por qué se convocó de urgencia, de un día para otro, a un representante de la Generalitat de Catalunya el día 25 de febrero de 2012, para reunirse con altos cargos de la Dirección General de Competencia?

Respuesta del Sr. Almunia en nombre de la Comisión

(11 de abril de 2012)

La información recibida por Su Señoría en relación con la supuesta convocatoria de una reunión el 25 de febrero de 2012 para tratar el caso de ayuda estatal a Spanair no parece ser correcta. Una reunión sobre este tema tuvo lugar entre los servicios responsables de la Dirección General de Competencia de la Comisión y representantes de las autoridades españolas y de la empresa, a petición de ésta última, el 24 de enero de 2012, y no el 25 de febrero de 2012.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002118/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Spanair

On 27 January 2012, the airline Spanair ceased operations after being wound up (95).

In the week preceding the closure, various news items appeared on a possible capital investment in Spanair by Qatar Airways (96). At the same time, the director of Iberia announced that Spanair ‘had no future’.

On the same day, 27 January 2012, it was announced that Qatar Airways was withdrawing from negotiations on acquiring a stake in Spanair on the grounds that it was faced with possible European Commission sanctions for subsidies it had received from public authorities (97).

On 3 February 2012, the Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Competition explained in an interview on Catalunya Ràdio that the Commission had received two complaints in December, and said that the investigation should take its course, although he declined to predict the outcome of this process as it was ‘in its initial stages’.

If, as the Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Competition says, the investigation is ‘in its initial stages’, why, on 25 February 2012, did he urgently summon, at only one day's notice, a representative of the Generalitat de Catalunya for a meeting with senior officials of the Directorate-General for Competition?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(11 April 2012)

The information received by the Honourable Member on a possible summoning of a meeting on the Spanair state aid case on 25 February 2012 seems to be erroneous. A meeting on this case was indeed held between the responsible services of the Commission's Directorate-General for Competition and representatives of the Spanish authorities and of the company, at the request of the latter, on 24 January 2012, not on 25 February 2012.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002119/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(22 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Iberia

El pasado 27 de enero de 2012 la compañía aérea Spanair cesó sus operaciones debido al cierre de la compañía (98). En unas declaraciones realizadas el pasado 3 de febrero de 2012 a la emisora Catalunya Ràdio, el Vicepresidente de la Comisión Europea y Comisario de Competencia explicó que la Comisión había recibido dos quejas en diciembre y sostuvo que la investigación sigue su curso, aunque está ₫en los primeros pasos₻, por lo que declinó anticipar el resultado de ese proceso (99).

Los representantes de Spanair afirmaron que la compañía nunca ha recibido subvenciones, sino inversiones de entidades y administraciones públicas. Esta fue la respuesta a las declaraciones del presidente de IAG e Iberia, que aseguró que le parece bien que la Comisión Europea investigue a Spanair por las subvenciones públicas recibidas y que opinara que el proyecto de esta aerolínea ₫no tiene ningún futuro₻. En un comunicado, Spanair calificó estas declaraciones de ₫desafortunadas₻ al referirse a un competidor ₫en términos negativos₻, y recuerda todas las inversiones recibidas por Iberia del Gobierno español.

En esta línea, recuerda que, entre los años 1996 y 1999, el Gobierno español otorgó a Iberia un total de 1 362 millones de euros, una cantidad ₫significativamente mayor a las inversiones percibidas por Spanair₻ (100).

— ¿Tiene conocimiento la Comisión de estas ₫inversiones₻ millonarias del Gobierno español en la compañía Iberia?

— Según los datos de la Comisión, ¿a cuánto ascienden las ₫inversiones₻ de los diferentes gobiernos españoles en Iberia en los últimos 20 años?

Respuesta del Sr. Almunia en nombre de la Comisión

(25 de abril de 2012)

La Comisión informa a Su Señoría de que, en los últimos 20 años, ha tomado tres decisiones sobre ayudas estatales en relación con la compañía Iberia, respecto a medidas sobre las que se le había informado. En 1992, la Comisión no planteó objeciones a un incremento de capital de 120 000 millones de pesetas (101). En 1996, la Comisión llegó a la conclusión de que una recapitalización de Iberia por un valor de 87 000 millones de pesetas no constituía ayuda estatal (102). Por último, en 1999, la Comisión consideró que un nuevo aumento de capital de 20 000 millones de pesetas tampoco representaba ayuda estatal (103).

A este respecto, la Comisión recuerda que, cuando una inversión de una autoridad pública sea considerada razonable para un inversor privado en circunstancias similares, se suele estimar por lo general que esta no constituye una ayuda estatal prohibida por la legislación de la Unión Europea.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002119/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Iberia

On 27 January 2012, the airline Spanair ceased trading due to the company’s closure (104). On 3 February 2012, the Vice-President of the Commission and Commissioner for Competition explained in an interview on Catalunya Ràdio that the Commission had received two complaints in December and that the investigation was taking its course, although as it was ‘in its initial stages’, he declined to anticipate the possible outcome of this process (105).

Representatives of Spanair stated that the company had never received any subsidies, only investment from public bodies and government agencies. This was their response to statements by the Chairman of IAG and Iberia, who claimed that he was in favour of the Commission investigating Spanair over state subsidies received and was of the opinion that there was ‘no future’ for the airline’s operations. In a communiqué, Spanair described these words as ‘unfortunate’, since they referred to a competitor ‘in negative terms’, and it pointed out all the investment the Spanish Government had made in Iberia.

On this topic, it recalled that between 1996 and 1999 the Spanish Government had given Iberia EUR 1 362 million, a sum ‘significantly larger than the investment Spanair had received’ (106).

— Is the Commission aware of the millions of euros the Spanish Government ‘invested’ in Iberia?

— According to the Commission’s data, how much have the various Spanish Governments ‘invested’ in Iberia over the last 20 years?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(25 April 2012)

The Commission informs the Honourable Member that it has taken three state aid decisions in relation to the Iberia airline in the last 20 years, in relation to measures of which it was made aware. In 1992, the Commission raised no objections to a capital increase of 120 billion pesetas (107). In 1996, the Commission came to the conclusion that a recapitalisation of Iberia of 87 billion pesetas did not constitute state aid (108). Finally, in 1999, the Commission considered that a further capital increase of 20 billion pesetas did not constitute state aid either (109).

In this connection, the Commission recalls that when an investment of a public authority would be deemed reasonable for a private investor in similar circumstances, then it is generally considered that it does not constitute state aid prohibited by European Union law.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002120/12

al Consejo

Daniel Cohn-Bendit (Verts/ALE)

(22 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Versión filtrada del análisis de la sostenibilidad de la deuda realizado por la troika

La hipótesis de referencia de la declaración del Grupo del Euro de 21 de febrero de 2012 afirma que las contribuciones del sector privado y público ₫deben garantizar que el ratio de la deuda pública de Grecia se orienta a una reducción que alcance el 120,5 % del PIB para 2020₻. Sin embargo, una versión filtrada del análisis preliminar de la sostenibilidad de la deuda elaborado por la troika arroja serias dudas sobre la capacidad del acuerdo alcanzado de cumplir sus objetivos. ¿Podría confirmar el Consejo la existencia de la evaluación y el documento mencionados anteriormente?

El informe apunta en particular a que ₫existe una tensión fundamental entre los objetivos del programa relativos a la reducción de la deuda y la mejora de la competitividad, y la devaluación interna necesaria para restablecer la competitividad de Grecia provocará inevitablemente un mayor ratio deuda/PIB a corto plazo […]. Esto dará lugar a que la trayectoria de la deuda sea mucho más elevada, siendo la deuda de hasta el 160 % del PIB en 2020. Teniendo en cuenta los riesgos, el programa griego puede ser por tanto proclive a los accidentes y despertar dudas sobre la sostenibilidad₻. En esta hipótesis, las necesidades de financiación del sector público griego hasta 2020 ascenderían aproximadamente a 245 000 millones de euros. Incluso después de tener debidamente en cuenta las medidas adicionales que se añadieron a las medidas ya integradas en el análisis de la sostenibilidad de la deuda, es muy poco probable que una hipótesis prudente que integre los riesgos previstos en el análisis dé como resultado un ratio deuda/PIB inferior al 150 %.

— ¿Puede explicar el Consejo por qué considera que el objetivo de 120,5 % es creíble?

— ¿Puede explicar el Consejo por qué la declaración del Grupo del Euro ignora los riesgos a la baja enumerados en la evaluación del análisis, dando lugar por tanto a una previsión excesivamente optimista?

— ¿Qué medidas tiene previsto adoptar el Consejo en caso de que los riesgos señalados en el análisis de la sostenibilidad de la deuda se materialicen?

— ¿Cómo propone el Consejo, en caso de que los riegos a la baja se materialicen, mitigar potencialmente las pérdidas financieras masivas de los Estados miembros y el FEEF?

— ¿Cómo puede alegar el Consejo que, en estas condiciones, puede restablecerse el acceso al mercado en los años inmediatos posteriores al programa?

— ¿Qué medidas contempla el Consejo para reducir la brecha entre los objetivos del programa relativos a la reducción de la deuda y la mejora de la competitividad?

— ¿Admite el Consejo que las previsiones incluidas en los dos primeros paquetes de ayuda financiera a Grecia pecaron de un peligroso exceso de optimismo, dando lugar a costes excesivos tanto para los contribuyentes de la UE como para los ciudadanos griegos?

Respuesta

(23 de mayo de 2012)

El Consejo no ha debatido la cuestión, puesto que el apoyo a la estabilidad de Grecia se dispuso al margen de los Tratados, con cargo a la Facilidad Europea de Estabilización Financiera, una sociedad anónima de la que son accionistas los Estados miembros cuya moneda es el euro. Las condiciones del préstamo se estipulan en un memorando de entendimiento anejo al acuerdo de servicio de préstamo entre los prestamistas y Grecia. Por ello, no corresponde al Consejo comentar ni informar sobre las condiciones establecidas por el acuerdo internacional.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-002120/12

an den Rat

Daniel Cohn-Bendit (Verts/ALE)

(22. Februar 2012)

Betrifft: Troika — durchgesickerte Fassung der Analyse der Troika zur Tragfähigkeit der Schuldenlage (ATS)

Dem grundlegenden Szenario der Erklärung der Eurogruppe vom 21. Februar 2012 zufolge sollte durch Beiträge des privaten und öffentlichen Sektors „ensure that Greece's public debt ratio is brought on a downward path reaching 120,5 % of GDP by 2020“ [sichergestellt werden, dass die öffentliche Schuldenquote Griechenlands auf einen rückläufigen Weg gebracht wird und bis 2020 120,5 % des BIP erreicht]. Eine durchgesickerte Fassung eines Entwurfs der Troika zu einer vorläufigen Analyse zur Tragfähigkeit der Schuldenlage wirft jedoch sehr ernste Zweifel daran auf, ob mit der erreichten Vereinbarung deren Ziele erreicht werden können. Würde der Rat die Existenz des oben genannten Dokuments und der oben genannten Bewertung bestätigen?

In dem Bericht wird insbesondere dargelegt, dass „there is a fundamental tension between the program objectives of reducing debt and improving competitiveness, in that the internal devaluation needed to restore Greece competitiveness will inevitably lead to a higher debt to GDP ratio in the near term (…) This would result in a much higher debt trajectory, leaving debt as high as 160 % of GDP in 2020. Given the risks, the Greek program may thus remain accident-prone, with questions about sustainability hanging over it“ [es eine fundamentale Spannung zwischen den Programmzielen Schuldenabbau und Verbesserung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit gibt, so dass es aufgrund der internen Entwertung, die zur Wiederherstellung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit Griechenlands erforderlich wäre, kurzfristig unvermeidlich zu einer höheren Schuldenquote kommen wird. Dies würde bei der Entwicklung der Schulden zu einer sehr viel höheren Kurve mit einer Schuldenquote von bis zu 160 % des BIP im Jahr 2020 führen. Angesichts der Risiken könnte das griechische Programm daher weiter störungsanfällig bleiben und von Zweifeln an seiner Tragfähigkeit überschattet werden]. In einem derartigen Szenario würde sich der Finanzierungsbedarf des öffentlichen Sektors Griechenlands bis 2020 auf etwa 245 Mrd. EUR belaufen. Selbst nach ordnungsgemäßer Berücksichtigung von Zusatzmaßnahmen, die die bereits in der ATS integrierten Maßnahmen ergänzen, kommt es bei einem vernünftigen Szenario, in das die in der ATS aufgeführten Risiken einbezogen werden, höchstwahrscheinlich nicht zu einer Schuldenquote unter 150 %.

— Kann der Rat erläutern, warum er das Ziel von 120,5 % für glaubwürdig hält?

— Warum ignoriert die Erklärung der Eurogruppe in der Bewertung der ATS aufgeführte Abwärtsrisiken und kommt daher zu einer übermäßig optimistischen Prognose?

— Welche Maßnahmen plant der Rat für den Fall, dass die in der ATS dargelegten Risiken tatsächlich eintreten?

— Wie plant der Rat bei Eintritt der Abwärtsrisiken die potenziell gewaltigen finanziellen Verluste für Mitgliedstaaten und EFSF abzumildern?

— Wie kann der Rat behaupten, dass unter diesen Umständen in den Jahren unmittelbar nach dem Programm der Marktzugang wiederhergestellt werden kann?

— Welche Maßnahmen sind im Hinblick auf die grundlegende Spannung zwischen den Programmzielen Schuldenabbau und Verbesserung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit vorgesehen?

— Gibt der Rat zu, dass die Prognosen für die ersten beiden Pakete finanzieller Unterstützung für Griechenland in gefährlicher Weise übermäßig optimistisch waren und sowohl für die EU-Steuerzahler als auch für die griechischen Bürger zu unverhältnismäßig hohen Kosten geführt haben?

Antwort

(23. Mai 2012)

Der Rat hat diese Frage nicht erörtert, da die Stabilitätshilfe für Griechenland nicht im Rahmen der Verträge, sondern im Rahmen der Europäischen Finanzstabilisierungsfazilität (EFSF) bereitgestellt wurde; diese ist eine Aktiengesellschaft, deren Gesellschafter diejenigen Mitgliedstaaten sind, deren Währung der Euro ist. Die Kreditbedingungen sind in einer Vereinbarung festgelegt, die dem Darlehensvertrag zwischen den Kreditgebern und Griechenland beigefügt ist. Der Rat ist daher nicht in der Lage, zu den im Rahmen dieser internationalen Vereinbarung festgelegten Bedingungen Stellung zu nehmen oder Informationen zu erteilen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002120/12

to the Council

Daniel Cohn-Bendit (Verts/ALE)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Troika-leaked version of the Troika Debt sustainability analysis (DSA)

The baseline scenario of the Eurogroup statement of 21 February 2012 affirms that the contributions of the private and the official sector ‘should ensure that Greece’s public debt ratio is brought on a downward path reaching 120.5 % of GDP by 2020’. However, a leaked version of a preliminary debt sustainability analysis drafted by the Troika throws very serious doubts on the capacity of the deal achieved to reach its objectives. Would the Council confirm the existence of the document and the assessment mentioned above?

The report points out in particular that ‘there is a fundamental tension between the program objectives of reducing debt and improving competitiveness, in that the internal devaluation needed to restore Greece competitiveness will inevitably lead to a higher debt to GDP ratio in the near term (…) This would result in a much higher debt trajectory, leaving debt as high as 160 % of GDP in 2020. Given the risks, the Greek program may thus remain accident-prone, with questions about sustainability hanging over it’. In such a scenario, Greek public sector financing needs up to 2020 would amount to around EUR 245 billion. Even after taking proper account of additional measures which were added to the measures already integrated in the DSA, a prudent scenario integrating risks foreseen in the DSA is highly unlikely to lead to a debt to GDP ratio below 150 %.

— Can the Council explain why it deems the 120.5 % target to be credible?

— Why does the Eurogroup statement ignore downside risks enumerated in the DSA assessment, leading therefore to an over-optimistic forecast?

— What measures does the Council plan should the risks highlighted in the DSA actually materialise?

— How does the Council propose, if those downsize risks materialise, to mitigate potentially massive financial losses for Member States and the EFSF?

— How can the Council argue that, under such conditions, market access can be restored in the immediate post-programme years?

— What measures are envisaged to address the fundamental tension between the programme objectives of reducing debt and improving competitiveness?

— Does the Council admit that forecasts contained in the first two packages of financial assistance for Greece were dangerously over-optimistic, leading to excessive costs for both EU taxpayers and Greek citizens?

Reply

(23 May 2012)

The Council has not discussed this issue, as the stability support to Greece was set up outside the treaties, under the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), a public company whose shareholders are those Member States whose currency is the euro. The conditions of the loan are stipulated in a memorandum of understanding attached to the loan agreement between the lenders and Greece. Therefore, the Council is not in a position to comment or provide information on the conditions agreed under the international agreement.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-002121/12

aan de Commissie

Marije Cornelissen (Verts/ALE)

(22 februari 2012)

Betreft: Deelname van het maatschappelijke middenveld en maatschappelijke partners aan het Europees semester

Op 1 december 2011 heeft het Europees Parlement een resolutie aangenomen over het Europees semester voor coördinatie van economisch beleid (2011/2071(INI)). Overweging 112 van deze resolutie luidt als volgt: „Vraagt of de Commissie het maatschappelijke middenveld en de sociale partners wil vragen bij te dragen aan een jaarlijks schaduwrapport over de voortgang van de lidstaten ten aanzien van de basisdoelstellingen en de implementatie van de maatregelen zoals voorgesteld in de NHP's, vergelijkbaar met het schaduwrapport gemaakt op basis van de implementatie van het Verdrag inzake de uitbanning van alle vormen van discriminatie tegen vrouwen (CEDAW)”.

De deelname van het maatschappelijk middenveld en sociale partners aan het Europees-semesterproces is cruciaal om het democratische verantwoordingsplicht, draagvlak en legitimiteit te geven. Het zou ondersteund kunnen worden door het maatschappelijk veld en sociale partners op het niveau van de lidstaat uit te nodigen en te ondersteunen, om onafhankelijke beoordelingen van de situatie ten aanzien van maatschappelijke aspecten, werkgelegenheid en de financiële positie te verstrekken (vergelijkbaar met de „schaduwrapporten” over de implementatie van het CEDAW) naar de Commissie voordat de richtlijn per land aan de lidstaat wordt afgegeven.

Antwoord van de heer Rehn namens de Commissie

(12 april 2012)

De Commissie moedigt de regeringen van de lidstaten aan ervoor te zorgen dat de nationale parlementen, sociale partners en andere  ter zake relevante belanghebbende partijen nauw worden betrokken bij de werkzaamheden in het kader van de Europa 2020-strategie en het Europees semester. Voor de sociale partners is zowel op EU‐ als op nationaal niveau een sleutelrol weggelegd als het erop aankomt de kwaliteit van het beleid te helpen waarborgen.

De tripartiete sociale top voor groei en werkgelegenheid, die gewoonlijk twee keer per jaar wordt gehouden, biedt de instellingen en de sociale partners van de EU een platform voor het voeren van een dialoog op hoog niveau. De Commissie zal dit thema verder behandelen in het kader van het werkgelegenheidspakket dat medio april 2012 zal worden gepresenteerd.

De Commissie verleent uit hoofde van het Progress-programma financiële steun  ter dekking van de exploitatiekosten van verschillende Europese netwerken die actief zijn op het gebied van de bestrijding van armoede, discriminatie en sociale uitsluiting. Deze netwerken leveren dankzij hun Europawijde institutionele contacten met de sociale sector en hun grote veldexpertise een waardevolle bijdrage tot de vorming van een doeltreffender en degelijk onderbouwd beleid en spelen bovendien een belangrijke rol in het aangaan van actiegerichte partnerschappen met nationale autoriteiten, academici en organisaties uit het maatschappelijk middenveld.

De financiële steun die de Commissie aan de Europese sociale netwerken verleent, is gericht op het versterken van de capaciteit van deze netwerken om de doelstellingen van het sociale beleid op EU-niveau te monitoren, te evalueren en ten uitvoer te leggen, onder meer door het opstellen van onafhankelijke beoordelingen van de sociale, financiële en werkgelegenheidssituatie in de EU-lidstaten.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002121/12

to the Commission

Marije Cornelissen (Verts/ALE)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Civil society and social partner participation in the European Semester

On 1 December 2011 the European Parliament adopted a resolution on the European Semester for Economic Policy Coordination (2011/2071(INI)). Paragraph 112 of this resolution reads as follows: ‘Calls on the Commission to ask civil society and social partners to contribute an annual shadow report on the progress of the Member States regarding the headline targets and the implementation of measures proposed in the NRPs, comparable with the shadow reports produced on the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)’.

The participation of civil society and social partners in the European Semester process is crucial in order to give it democratic accountability, ownership and legitimacy. It could be supported by inviting and supporting civil society organisations and social partners at Member State level to submit independent assessments of the social, employment and financial situation (comparable to the ‘shadow reports’ on the implementation of the CEDAW) to the Commission before the country-specific guidance is issued to Member States.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(12 April 2012)

The Commission encourages Member States’ governments to ensure the close involvement of national parliaments, social partners and other relevant stakeholders in the context of the Europe 2020 strategy and the European Semester. Social partners have a key role to play at EU and at national level to help to ensure the quality of policy.

The Tripartite Social Summit for Growth and Jobs, which meets usually twice a year, is a high level forum for a dialogue between EU institutions and EU social partners. The Commission will further address this issue in its forthcoming Employment Package to the presented mid‐April 2012.

The Commission financially supports through the PROGRESS programme the operational costs of several European networks active in fighting poverty, discrimination and social exclusion. Through their institutional contacts within the social sector across Europe and their prominent expertise in the field, these networks provide a valuable contribution to more effective, evidence-based policies and play an important role in building action-oriented partnerships with national authorities, academics and civil society organisations.

The Commission's funding for the European social networks aims at strengthening their capacity to monitor, evaluate and implement social policy goals at the EU level, including by producing such independent assessments of the social, financial and employment situation in the EU Member States.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002124/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(22 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Dati e misure sul turismo

La crisi economica internazionale ha provocato un generale calo del numero dei turisti, delle notti trascorse in strutture ricettive e del fatturato raggiunto dagli operatori del settore.

Sebbene la diminuzione sia avvenuta in modo difforme da Stato a Stato, alcuni dati comparabili si riscontrano in varie analisi effettuate da esperti di settore. Innanzitutto diminuisce il numero dei giorni di pernottamento: se fino a qualche anno fa le vacanze duravano alcune settimane, adesso si è registrata una contrazione dei giorni di pernottamento. Altro dato è la vicinanza della meta prescelta alla propria abitazione. Rispetto al passato diminuiscono quindi i lunghi viaggi in favore del turismo nazionale e regionale.

Alla luce dei fatti sopraesposti, può la Commissione far sapere:

Risposta data da Antonio Tajani a nome della Commissione

(30 marzo 2012)

La base dati nonché le relazioni specifiche sono disponibili sul sito web di Eurostat: (http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/tourism/introduction).

L'onorevole deputato troverà in allegato (112) le cifre chiave del turismo. Non esistono statistiche sul turnover del settore turistico nel suo insieme, ma l'allegato comprende cifre relative al turnover per i sottosettori relativi alle strutture ricettive e alle agenzie di viaggio/ai tour operator (ricavate dalle statistiche strutturali delle imprese).

L'onorevole deputato troverà la comunicazione e una rassegna completa delle azioni in tema di turismo condotte dalla Commissione nel Programma rinnovabile per il turismo (Tourism Implementation Rolling Plan) all'indirizzo:

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/newsroom/cf/itemdetail.cfm?item_id=5719.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002124/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Data and statistics on tourism

The global economic crisis has caused a general fall in tourist numbers, in nights spent in holiday accommodation and in the turnover achieved by sectoral operators.

Although the manner in which the decrease has occurred varies from state to state, certain comparable data may be found across various analyses carried out by sectoral experts. Firstly, there has been a reduction in the number of overnight stays: until a few years ago, holidays lasted several weeks; they are now being shortened. Another indicator is the proximity of the chosen destination to the person’s home. Compared to the past, long-haul trips are losing ground to national and regional holidays.

In view of this, could the Commission state:

1.whether it can provide up-to-date statistics and data on tourist numbers and on the sectoral turnover in the various Member States;

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(30 March 2012)

The database as well as topical reports is available on the Eurostat website (http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/tourism/introduction).

The Honourable Member is provided with the key tourism figures in the annex (116). Statistics on sectoral turnover of the tourism sector as whole do not exist, but the annex includes turnover figures for the subsectors accommodation and travel agencies/tour operators (extracted from structural business statistics).

The Honourable Member can find both the communication and a complete overview of tourism actions implemented by the Commission in the Tourism Implementation Rolling Plan available at: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/newsroom/cf/itemdetail.cfm?item_id=5719

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002127/12

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: Αρνητικές συνέπειες στην υγεία από τη χρήση δισφαινόλης

Σύμφωνα με το διαδικτυακό τόπο in.gr, οι ερευνητές του Πανεπιστημίου Μιγκέλ Ερνέντεθ της Ισπανίας διαπίστωσαν ότι ακόμη και σε απειροελάχιστες ποσότητες (ένα τέταρτο του δισεκατομμυριοστού του γραμμαρίου) η δισφαινόλη (BPA) επιδρά στο πάγκρεας πυροδοτώντας την έκκριση διπλάσιας ινσουλίνης από αυτή που είναι απαραίτητη για τη διάσπαση των τροφών.

Τα υψηλά επίπεδα ινσουλίνης, με την πάροδο του χρόνου, προκαλούν την αντίσταση του οργανισμού στη δράση της ορμόνης οδηγώντας σε παχυσαρκία ή διαβήτη τύπου 2.

Η δισφαινόλη Α φαίνεται ότι έχει παρόμοια δράση με τα οιστρογόνα όσον αφορά στους υποδοχείς τους. Για να αποδείξουν αυτή τη δράση της οι ερευνητές αφαίρεσαν δυο υποδοχείς οιστρογόνων από το πάγκρεας ποντικών και, όπως περιγράφεται στη μελέτη τους, η οποία δημοσιεύθηκε στην επιθεώρηση ₫Public Library of Science One₻ (₫PLoS One₻), μετά την αφαίρεση των συγκεκριμένων υποδοχέων η έκκριση της ινσουλίνης επανήλθε στα φυσιολογικά επίπεδα, γεγονός το οποίο αποδεικνύει για πρώτη φορά πειραματικά το χημικό μηχανισμό δράσης της BPA. Οι ερευνητές τονίζουν ότι σε δοκιμές σε ανθρώπινα κύτταρα στο εργαστήριο η απόκριση εμφανίστηκε ακόμη πιο ισχυρή.

Η προσπάθεια για την αντιμετώπιση του διαβήτη τύπου 2 αλλά και της παχυσαρκίας με όλες τις καταστροφικές συνέπειες που μπορεί να έχει στην ανθρώπινη υγεία μπορεί να ενταθεί εφόσον υπάρξει συντονισμός σε πανευρωπαϊκό επίπεδο.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Dalli εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(29 Μαρτίου 2012)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002127/12

to the Commission

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Detrimental health consequences from the use of Bisphenol

According to the web portal in.gr, researchers at the Miguel Hernandez University in Spain have ascertained that even in infinitely small quantities (a quarter of a billionth of a gram) Bisphenol (BPA) has an effect on the pancreas, inducing the secretion of twice the amount of insulin as is necessary for the breakdown of food.

With the passage of time, high levels of insulin trigger resistance from the body to the action of this hormone, leading to obesity or type 2 diabetes.

Bisphenol A appears to act on its receptors in a manner similar to oestrogen. To demonstrate this, the researchers extracted two oestrogen receptors from the pancreas of mice and, as described in their study, published in the review ‘Public Library of Science One’ (PLoS ONE), following the removal of the receptors in question the secretion of insulin returned to normal levels, providing experimental evidence for the first time of BPA’s chemical mechanisms. The researchers emphasise that in laboratory tests on human cells the secretion manifested itself even more strongly.

Efforts to deal with type 2 diabetes as well as obesity, with all the destructive consequences it can have for human health, can be intensified if there is coordination at the pan-European level.

Will the Commission answer the following:

Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission

(29 March 2012)

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002129/12

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: Αποκλεισμός των Νήσων Φώκλαντ

Ότι τα νησιά Φώκλαντ (βρετανικής κυριαρχίας) δεν εντάσσονται στο πλαίσιο των σχέσεων της ΕΕ με τις χώρες της Αφρικής, της Καραϊβικής και του Ειρηνικού είναι κατανοητό, στο πλαίσιο μιας ρεαλιστικής προσέγγισης. Όμως το γεγονός ότι τα νησιά Φώκλαντ αντιμετωπίζουν την απόφαση της Ουρουγουάης, της Βραζιλίας, της Αργεντινής και της Χιλής να προχωρήσουν στην κίνηση αποκλεισμού των λιμανιών τους από τα πλοία που φέρουν τη σημαία των Νήσων, απόφαση που τα στραγγαλίζει οικονομικά, είναι άδικο για τους κατοίκους της μικρής, κυρίως αγροτικής χώρας.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση της Ύπατης Εκπροσώπου/Αντιπροέδρου Ashton εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(4 Ιουνίου 2012)

Βάσει της ΣΛΕΕ, τα κράτη μέλη έχουν συμφωνήσει να συνδέουν τα νησιά Φώκλαντ (και άλλες υπερπόντιες χώρες και εδάφη που έχουν συνταγματικούς δεσμούς με ορισμένα κράτη μέλη της ΕΕ όπως αυτοί ορίζονται στο παράρτημα II της ΣΛΕΕ) με την Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση.

Σκοπός της σύνδεσης αυτής είναι η προώθηση της οικονομικής και κοινωνικής ανάπτυξης αυτών των χωρών και εδαφών, και η δημιουργία στενών οικονομικών σχέσεων μεταξύ αυτών και της Ένωσης στο σύνολό της. Τα ζητήματα κυριαρχίας υπάγονται στη δικαιοδοσία των κρατών μελών.

Η ΥΕ/ΑΠ έχει γνώση της διακήρυξης Mercosur στην οποία αναφέρεται το Αξιότιμο Μέλος. Οι επικεφαλής των αποστολών της ΕΕ στην περιοχή παρακολουθούν τις εξελίξεις και κάνουν αναφορές τακτικά επί του θέματος.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002129/12

to the Commission

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Falkland Islands embargo

Taking a pragmatic approach, it is understandable that the Falkland Islands (a British sovereign territory) are not included in the framework of EU relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. However, the fact that the Falkland Islands are confronted by a decision by Uruguay, Brazil, Argentina and Chile to close their ports to ships flying the Islands’ flag, which is tantamount to economic strangulation, is unjust to the inhabitants of this small, primarily agricultural, territory.

Will the Commission say:

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

(4 June 2012)

Under the TFEU, Member States have agreed to associate the Falklands Islands (and other overseas countries and territories that have constitutional ties with Member States as set out in Annex II to the TFEU) with the European Union.

The purpose of association is to promote the economic and social development of the countries and territories and to establish close economic relations between them and the Union as a whole.

Issues of soverignty are matters for Member States.

The HR/VP is well aware of the Mercosur declaration referred to by the Honourable Member.

EU Heads of Delegation in the region are monitoring developments and report regularly on the matter.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002130/12

προς την Επιτροπή (Αντιπρόεδρος/Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος)

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: VP/HR — Συνέχεια αντιδημοκρατικής δράσης της αιγυπτιακής πολιτείας

Οι οργανώσεις που προωθούν την κοινωνία των πολιτών στην Αίγυπτο βρίσκονται υπό διωγμό. Ο διωγμός αυτός επεκτείνεται και εντείνεται σε βάρος των χριστιανών κατοίκων.

Όλες οι χώρες που είναι φίλα προσκείμενες στο βασανισμένο αιγυπτιακό λαό ανησυχούν λόγω του ότι, όπως φαίνεται, η δημοκρατία δε κερδίζει στη χώρα μετά την ανατροπή του καθεστώτος Μουμπάρακ.

Ερωτάται η Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος;

Απάντηση της Ύπατης Εκπροσώπου/Αντιπροέδρου Ashton εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(23 Μαΐου 2012)

Η Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος/Αντιπρόεδρος (ΥΕ/ΑΠ) έχει εκφράσει τη βαθιά της ανησυχία σχετικά με τους περιορισμούς που επιβάλλονται στις οργανώσεις της κοινωνίας των πολιτών (ΟΚΠ) στην Αίγυπτο μέσω δηλώσεων που εξέδωσε στις 30 Δεκεμβρίου 2012 και την 1η Φεβρουαρίου 2012. Το ζήτημα τέθηκε επίσης και στα συμπεράσματα του Συμβουλίου Εξωτερικών Υποθέσεων της 27ης Φεβρουαρίου 2012. Η ΥΑ/ΑΠ έχει ζητήσει από τις αιγυπτιακές αρχές να επιλύσουν την κατάσταση και να επιτρέψουν στις ΟΚΠ να συνεχίσουν το έργο τους για τη στήριξή της μετάβασης. Η υποστήριξη της κοινωνίας των πολιτών από την ΕΕ αποτελεί σημαντική συνιστώσα της αναθεωρημένης Ευρωπαϊκής Πολιτικής Γειτονίας, η οποία βασίζεται στην αμοιβαία λογοδοσία και την κοινή προσήλωση στις καθολικές αξίες των ανθρωπίνων δικαιωμάτων, των θεμελιωδών ελευθεριών, της δημοκρατίας και του κράτους δικαίου. Η προώθηση της ελευθερίας του συνεταιρίζεσθαι είναι ένας από του πυλώνες της πολιτικής ανθρωπίνων δικαιωμάτων της ΕΕ. Συνεπώς, η ΕΕ έχει τονίσει τη σημασία που έχει για την Αίγυπτο, η εφαρμογή ενός νέου νόμου σχετικά με τις ΜΚΟ ο οποίος θα ανταποκρίνεται στα διεθνή κριτήρια.

Σε πρόσφατες δηλώσεις (ιδίως στις 18 Δεκεμβρίου, τις 20 Νοεμβρίου, τις 26 Νοεμβρίου και τις 10 Οκτωβρίου), η ΥΕ/ΑΠ ζήτησε επανειλημμένα από τις αρχές της Αιγύπτου να προστατεύουν τις θεμελιώδεις ελευθερίες των πολιτών, συμπεριλαμβανομένης της ανεξιθρησκίας. Οι ανησυχίες αυτές εκφράζονται επίσης τακτικά και σε ανεπίσημες επαφές με τις αιγυπτιακές αρχές. Οι προσπάθειες της νέας αιγυπτιακής ηγεσίας να προχωρήσει προς την οικοδόμηση βαθιάς δημοκρατίας θα αξιολογηθεί προσεκτικά σύμφωνα με την προσέγγιση ₫περισσότερα για περισσότερα₻ που είναι ουσιαστικό χαρακτηριστικό της νέας πολιτικής γειτονίας.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002130/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Continuing anti-democratic action by the Egyptian State

Civil society organisations in Egypt are being persecuted. Egypt's Christians in particular are being subjected to increasing and more intense persecution.

All countries which are favourably disposed towards the long-suffering Egyptian people are concerned that democracy does not seem to be gaining ground in the country despite the overthrow of the Mubarak regime.

In view of the above, will the Vice-President/High Representative say:

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

(23 May 2012)

The High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) has expressed her deep concern about the restrictions on civil society organisations (CSOs) in Egypt through statements issued on 30 December 2011 and 1 February 2012. The issue has also been addressed in the conclusions of the Foreign Affairs Council of 27 February 2012. The HR/VP has urged the Egyptian authorities to resolve the situation and allow CSOs to continue their work in support of the transition. The EU's support to civil society is a key component of the revised European Neighbourhood Policy, which is based on mutual accountability and a shared commitment to the universal values of human rights, fundamental freedoms, democracy and the rule of law. The promotion of freedom of association is one of the pillars of EU human rights policy. Therefore, the EU has underlined the importance for Egypt of the adoption of a new NGOs law compliant with international standards.

In recent statements (notably on 18 December, 20 November, 26 November and 10 October 2011), the HR/VP has repeatedly called on the Egyptian authorities to protect the fundamental freedoms of the citizens, including freedom of religion or belief. These concerns are also regularly raised in informal contacts with the Egyptian authorities. The efforts made by the new Egyptian leadership to progress towards the development of a deep democracy will be carefully assessed in accordance with the ‘more for more approach’ inherent to the new neighbourhood policy.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002131/12

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: Συνέχεια των βασανιστηρίων στη Τυνησία

Ο υπουργός ανθρωπίνων δικαιωμάτων και κυβερνητικός εκπρόσωπος της τυνησιακής κυβέρνησης, Σαμίρ Ντιλού, δήλωσε κατά την έναρξη της ₫εθνικής διαβούλευσης για την πρόληψη και την εξάλειψη των βασανιστηρίων και της κακομεταχείρισης₻, ότι η πρακτική των βασανιστηρίων συνεχίζεται στην Τυνησία παρά την πτώση του παλαιού καθεστώτος. Η διαβούλευση πραγματοποιείται με πρωτοβουλία της αποστολής της Παγκόσμιας Οργάνωσης κατά των Βασανιστηρίων (OMCT) στην Τυνησία.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση της Ύπατης Εκπροσώπου/Αντιπροέδρου Ashton εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(10 Μαΐου 2012)

Κατά τους πρώτους μήνες μετά την επανάσταση, η Τυνησία επικύρωσε το προαιρετικό πρωτόκολλο της Σύμβασης κατά των βασανιστηρίων. Η ΕΕ εξέφρασε την ικανοποίησή της για την επικύρωση, μέσω δήλωσης της ΥΕ/ΑΠ (Ιούλιος 2011). Ο εθνικός προληπτικός μηχανισμός για την πρόληψη των βασανιστηρίων (που προβλέπεται στο άρθρο 3 του προαιρετικού πρωτοκόλλου των Ηνωμένων Εθνών (ΗΕ) δεν έχει ακόμα καθιερωθεί. Στις 29 Φεβρουαρίου 2012, η επιτροπή σχετικά με τα δικαιώματα και τις ελευθερίες της Συντακτικής Συνέλευσης κατήργησε το άρθρο 5 του νόμου αριθ. 106 της 22ας Οκτωβρίου 2011, που καθορίζει τη νομοθετημένη περίοδο παραγραφής για το έγκλημα του βασανισμού σε 15 έτη. Ωστόσο, παρά την πτώση του παλαιού καθεστώτος, οι πρακτικές βασανισμού και κακομεταχείρισης δεν έχουν εξαλειφθεί. Όταν διαπιστώνονται, καταδικάζονται συστηματικά από την ΕΕ.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002131/12

to the Commission

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(22 February 2012)

Subject: Continuing torture in Tunisia

The Tunisian Minister for Human Rights and government spokesperson Samir Dilou stated at the opening of the ‘National consultation for the prevention and eradication of torture and abuse’ that the practice of torture was continuing in Tunisia despite the fall of the previous regime. This consultation exercise is being conducted at the initiative of the World Organisation against Torture (OMCT) mission to Tunisia.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

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

(10 May 2012)

During the first months after the revolution, Tunisia ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture. The EU has welcomed this ratification, thorough a HR/VP statement (July 2011). The national preventive mechanism for the prevention of torture (foreseen by Article 3 of the United Nations (UN) Optional Protocol) has not been established yet. On 29 February 2012, the Commission on Rights and Freedoms of the Constituent Assembly abolished Article 5 of Law No 106 dating from 22 October 2011 which sets the statute of limitations for the crime of torture at 15 years. However, despite the fall of the old regime, torture and ill-treatment practices have not disappeared. When they happen, they are regularly condemned by the EU.

In addition, the EU has also started a dialogue with the Tunisian authorities on the reform of the security sector and has expressed its readiness to accompany the country in the effective implementation of UN commitments in the field of respect for human rights. At the same time, the EU will continue to use its cooperation instruments to support the activities of civil society actors, in their efforts to promote respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002132/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(23 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Aeropuerto de El Prat y aeropuerto de Barajas

La ministra de Fomento del Gobierno español, Ana Pastor, ha asegurado que el aeropuerto de Barajas y el de El Prat compiten en igualdad de condiciones y se ha comprometido a solucionar «el agujero de 14 000 millonesde deuda que tienen el conjunto de aeropuertos españoles» (120).

La titular de Fomento ha explicado que tanto Barajas como El Prat tienen infraestructuras de calidad y ambos han tenido un crecimiento de tráfico «impresionante». Ha recordado que en el año 2011 El Prat superó los 34 millones de pasajeros mientras que Barajas se situó en los 41,7 millonesy ha reiterado que ambos aeropuertos son gestionados con igualdad, «lo que significa que desde AENA se atiende a todos», ha puntualizado.

Por su parte, el diputado del Grupo Mixto, Alfred Bosch i Pascual, ha señalado que las pérdidas de AENA «se explican por las pérdidas atribuibles a Barajas, donde se invierte el 55 % de los recursos cuando sólo tiene el 25 % del tráfico».

— ¿No cree la Comisión que la inversión de AENA en el aeropuerto de Barajas es desproporcionada a su volumen de tráfico?

— Si Barajas tiene un tráfico de 41,7 millones de pasajeros y tiene una inversión de AENA del 55 % de los recursos, El Prat debería tener, según esta lógica, una inversión del 45 % de los recursos dado que su tráfico es de 34 millones de pasajeros. En cambio el Prat recibe solamente el 25 % de los recursos de AENA. ¿No cree la Comisión que esta diferencia de inversión por parte de AENA, perjudica a la competencia del aeropuerto de El Prat con respecto al de Barajas?

Respuesta del Sr. Almunia en nombre de la Comisión

(17 de abril de 2012)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002132/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: El Prat and Barajas airports

The Spanish Government’s Minister for Development, Ana Pastor, has given assurances that Barajas airport and El Prat airport compete on an level playing field and has undertaken to find a solution to ‘Spain’s airports’ cumulative debt of EUR 14 billion’ (122).

The Minister of Development explained that both Barajas and El Prat airports had high-quality infrastructures and had seen ‘impressive ’ growth in traffic. The Minister recalled that in 2011 El Prat welcomed more than34 million passengers while Barajas had 41.7 million and reiterated that both airports are managed on equal terms, ‘which means that AENA takes care of all of them’, the Minister clarified.

The Grupo MixtoMP, Alfred Bosch i Pascual, has stated that AENA’s losses ‘are explained by losses attributable to Barajas, in which it invests 55 % of its resources, although it only handles 25 % of traffic’.

— Does the Commission not believe that investment by AENA in Barajas Airport is disproportionate to its volume of traffic?

— If Barajas has traffic of 41.7 million passengers and AENA invests 55 % of its resources in it, El Prat should, by this logic, receive of 45 % of resources, as it has traffic of 34 million passengers. However, El Prat receives only 25 % of AENA’s resources. Does the Commission not believe that this difference in AENA investment makes El Prat less competitive than Barajas?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(17 April 2012)

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002133/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(23 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Posible sanción a Spanair

El pasado 27 de enero de 2012 la compañía aérea Spanair cesó sus operaciones debido al cierre de la compañía (124). Durante la semana anterior al cierre, se publicaron diferentes noticias sobre la posible apertura de capital de Spanair con Qatar airways (125). Al mismo tiempo, el presidente de Iberia, declaró que la compañía Spanair ₫no tenía futuro₻. El mismo día 27 de enero de 2012, por la mañana, se publica que Qatar airways abandona las negociaciones de invertir en Spanair ante la posible sanción por parte de la Comisión Europea por las subvenciones recibidas por parte de las administraciones públicas (126)  (127).

¿Tiene constancia la Comisión de tales hechos?

¿Piensa la Comisión iniciar una investigación interna sobre la cuestión? ¿Piensa la Comisión poner en marcha medidas internas para disminuir el número de filtraciones de información privilegiada a los medios de comunicación?

¿Cree la Comisión que la filtración de datos y hechos a los medios de comunicación, específicamente en el ámbito de las sanciones por ayudas de Estado, tiene consecuencias negativas para las empresas envueltas en tales procesos?

Respuesta del Sr. Almunia en nombre de la Comisión

(3 de abril de 2012)

En noviembre de 2011, la Comisión abrió, de oficio, una investigación preliminar en materia de ayudas de Estado sobre las posibles ayudas estatales que según informaciones aparecidas en la prensa española se concedieron a Spanair durante los últimos años. Posteriormente, la Comisión recibió también dos denuncias sobre el mismo tema. En diciembre de 2011, la Comisión pidió explicaciones sobre el tema a las autoridades españolas. Esta petición formaba parte de la investigación preliminar en materia de ayudas de Estado que precede a la decisión de incoar o no el procedimiento de investigación formal sobre ayudas estatales. En el momento de redactar esta respuesta, el asunto Spanair está aún en fase de investigación preliminar.

En lo que respecta a la primera pregunta de Su Señoría, la Comisión está efectivamente informada de que: Qatar se retiró de las negociaciones con Spanair; la empresa cesó sus actividades el 27 de enero de 2012; el 1 de febrero de 2012 la empresa fue autorizada a iniciar el procedimiento voluntario ordinario por quiebra (₫concurso voluntario ordinario₻).

Con respecto a la segunda y tercera preguntas, la Comisión no tiene conocimiento de filtración de información alguna sobre este tema. Según lo indicado anteriormente, fueron numerosos los artículos de prensa en los que se informaba de que Spanair había recibido ayuda pública, con anterioridad a que la Comisión iniciara su investigación preliminar.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002133/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Possible imposition of sanctions on Spanair

On 27 January 2012, the airline Spanair ceased operating due to the company’s closure (128). In the week preceding its closure, various news items appeared about a possible influx of capital to Spanair from Qatar Airways (129). At the same time, the Chairman of Iberia announced that Spanair ‘had no future’. On the same day, 27 January 2012, it was announced in the morning that Qatar Airways was withdrawing from negotiations on acquiring a stake in Spanair on the grounds that the Commission might impose sanctions on it for subsidies it had received from public authorities (130)  (131).

— Is the Commission aware of these facts?

— Does the Commission intend to initiate an internal investigation into this issue? Will the Commission implement internal measures to reduce the number of leaks of privileged information to the media?

— Does the Commission believe that the leaking of data and facts to the media, specifically as regards penalties for state aid, has negative consequences for the companies involved?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(3 April 2012)

In November 2011 the Commission opened, ex officio, a preliminary state aid inquiry into the potential state aid measures that, according to Spanish press reports, were granted in recent years to Spanair. Subsequently the Commission also received two complaints on the same subject. The Commission requested explanations on the subject from the Spanish authorities in December 2011. This request was part of the preliminary state aid inquiry, which precedes the decision whether or not to open the formal state aid investigation procedure. At the time of this reply, the Spanair case is still at a preliminary inquiry stage.

With respect to the Honourable Member's first question, the Commission is indeed informed that: Qatar withdrew from the negotiations with Spanair; the company ceased operations as of 27 January 2012; on 1 February 2012 the company was admitted into ordinary voluntary bankruptcy concurso voluntario ordinario).

With respect to the second and the third questions, the Commission has no knowledge of any leak of information on this subject. As indicated above, there were many press reports indicating that Spanair had received public support, before the Commission initiating its preliminary inquiry.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002135/12

to the Commission

Gerard Batten (EFD)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Directive 2005/36/EC

Can the Commission please clarify the position regarding Directive 2005/36/EC regarding a question raised by one of my constituents concerning the powers of the Member State relevant to this directive?

It appears that the UK General Dental Council is of the view that it has no power to test EU citizens for language or clinical skills before allowing them to practice.

It has been reported in the British press that Commissioner Barnier has described this as a ‘myth’.

The GDC requires non-EU citizens to pass an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and ORE (Overseas Registration Exam) exam before being allowed to practice.

— Can you please confirm what powers the General Dental Council has to test and or examine dentists from EU Member States to deem them able or unable to practice in the UK?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(25 April 2012)

The profession of a dental practitioner falls under the automatic recognition regime of Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications. This regime is based on compliance with minimum training requirements for that profession specified in Article 34 and Annex V.3 of the directive. The presumption is that once the professional complies with those requirements his/her qualifications must be automatically recognised — without further examination of clinical skills — in other EU Member States. Consequently, the UK competent authorities (we understand that in the present case this is the UK General Dental Council) may not check the clinical skills of dental practitioners falling under the automatic recognition regime.

Regarding the language skills of those professionals, Article 53 of Directive 2005/36/EC stipulates that they must have a knowledge of languages necessary for practising the profession in the host Member State. The UK competent authorities may check that knowledge after the completion of the automatic recognition procedure only in case of serious doubts. Such language checks must be proportionate to the requirements of the specific job position.

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-002136/12

à la Commission

Anne Delvaux (PPE)

(23 février 2012)

Objet: Paragraphe 4 de l'article 27 de l'Accord anti-contrefaçon (ACAC)

Le paragraphe 4 de l'article 27 de la section 5, relative à la propriété intellectuelle dans l'environnement numérique, de l'Accord anti-contrefaçon (ACAC) dispose: ₫Une Partie peut prévoir que ses autorités compétentes seront habilitées, en conformité avec ses lois et réglementations, à ordonner à un fournisseur de services en ligne de divulguer rapidement au détenteur du droit des renseignements suffisants pour lui permettre d'identifier un abonné dont il est allégué que le compte aurait été utilisé en vue de porter atteinte à des droits, lorsque le détenteur du droit a présenté des allégations suffisantes sur le plan juridique, relativement à une atteinte à une marque de fabrique ou de commerce ou au droit d'auteur ou à des droits connexes, et lorsque ces renseignements sont demandés aux fins de la protection ou du respect de ces droits₻. La possibilité offerte par l'ACAC aux fournisseurs d'accès à Internet de divulguer des renseignements relatifs à la vie privée des auteurs présumés d'infractions au droit d'auteur, sans décision de justice ou possibilité de faire appel, suscite bon nombre d'inquiétudes parmi les citoyens.

Je suis d'avis qu'il serait constructif de mener une évaluation plus complète des effets que l'accord pourrait avoir sur les droits fondamentaux, notamment la liberté d'expression et le droit à la vie privée dans l'Union européenne et au-delà.

Est-ce que la Commission entend mener cette étude?

Réponse donnée par M. De Gucht au nom de la Commission

(23 avril 2012)

La Commission souligne que la deuxième partie de l'article 27, paragraphe 4, de l'accord commercial anti-contrefaçon (ACTA) garantit expressément que ₫ces procédures sont mises en œuvre d'une manière qui […] préserve les principes fondamentaux comme la liberté d'expression, les procédures équitables et le respect de la vie privée₻.

En outre, comme l'Honorable Parlementaire le rappelle à juste titre, l'article 27, paragraphe 4, de l'ACTA dispose clairement que, si une partie choisit volontairement d'introduire une disposition de ce type, les informations doivent être ₫divulguées₻₫en conformité avec les lois et réglementations de cette partie₻. En 2000, l'UE a décidé d'introduire ce type de mécanisme dans son acquis par l'intermédiaire de l'article 15, paragraphe 2, de la directive sur le commerce électronique (directive 2000/31/CE (132)). Cet article dispose que ces informations sont communiquées aux autorités compétentes. L'ACTA n'impose ni n'encourage aucune modification de ces dispositions ou des législations nationales adoptées par chaque État membre de l'UE pour mettre en œuvre la directive sur le commerce électronique.

Qui plus est, afin de clarifier définitivement ce point, la Commission a décidé de porter l'ACTA devant la Cour de justice de l'Union européenne, qui déterminera si l'ACTA est pleinement compatible avec les traités de l'Union européenne et la Charte des droits fondamentaux.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002136/12

to the Commission

Anne Delvaux (PPE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Article 27(4) of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA)

Article 27(4) of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA), under Section 5 relating to intellectual property in the digital environment, states: ‘A Party may provide, in accordance with its laws and regulations, its competent authorities with the authority to order an online service provider to disclose expeditiously to a right holder information sufficient to identify a subscriber whose account was allegedly used for infringement, where that right holder has filed a legally sufficient claim of trademark or copyright or related rights infringement, and where such information is being sought for the purpose of protecting or enforcing those rights ’. The opportunity offered by ACTA for online service providers to disclose information relating to the privacy of alleged offenders of copyright, without a court order or opportunity to appeal, has raised many concerns among citizens.

I believe it would be constructive to conduct a more comprehensive assessment of the effects that the agreement could have on fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and the right to privacy in the European Union and beyond.

Does the Commission intend to conduct this study?

Answer given by Mr De Gucht on behalf of the Commission

(23 April 2012)

The Commission points out that the second part of Article 27.4 of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) expressly ensures that ‘These procedures shall be implemented in a manner that […] preserves fundamental principles such as freedom of expression, fair process, and privacy.’

Furthermore, as the Honourable Member rightly points out, Article 27.4 ACTA clearly prescribes that — if a Party voluntarily opts to introduce such a provision — information is to be provided in accordance with that Party's laws and regulations. The EU decided, in 2000, to introduce such a mechanism in its acquis, through Article 15.2 of the E-commerce Directive (2000/31/EC (133)). This Article prescribes that such information shall be provided to the competent authorities. ACTA does not impose or otherwise promote any change to this provisions or to the national legislations adopted by each EU Member State to implement the E-commerce Directive.

More importantly, in order to definitively clarify this issue, the Commission has decided to refer ACTA to the European Court of Justice, which will pronounce itself on ACTA's full compatibility with the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-002137/12

à la Commission

Franck Proust (PPE)

(23 février 2012)

Objet: Aide pour les doctorants

Lorsque je vais à la rencontre d'étudiants, ils me demandent souvent: ₫Mais que fait l'Europe pour nous?₻. Je leur explique que l'Europe fait partie de leur quotidien (dans les cours), leur assure la reconnaissance internationale de leurs diplômes et les encourage à vivre une expérience à l'étranger (programme Erasmus). L'Union a bien compris que c'est en promouvant ses valeurs auprès des jeunes générations qu'elle arrivera à faire émerger une véritable culture populaire européenne.

Mais il est une question à laquelle il est assez difficile de répondre. De nombreux étudiants se rendent dans un autre pays de l'Union afin de poursuivre leurs études dans le cadre d'un doctorat.

Réponse donnée par Mme Vassiliou au nom de la Commission

(29 mars 2012)

L'Union apporte un soutien financier aux chercheurs doctorants dans l'ensemble de l'Europe à travers, notamment, les actions Marie Curie. L'action ₫Réseaux de formation initiale₻, en particulier, bénéficie chaque année à environ 1 500 chercheurs doctorants. Cette action est mise en œuvre selon trois modalités: les programmes de doctorat innovants, les doctorats industriels européens et une troisième modalité qui permet l'inscription à un programme de doctorat, mais sans obligation. Les demandes de financement au titre de l'action ₫Réseaux de formation initiale₻ sont transmises par des réseaux d'établissements. Les organisations bénéficiant d'une aide financière choisissent les doctorants dont les travaux porteront sur leur projet; la procédure de sélection doit cependant être conforme à la charte européenne du chercheur et au code de conduite pour le recrutement des chercheurs.

Pour les chercheurs doctorants, l'action ₫Réseaux de formation initiale₻ Marie Curie

— verse aux chercheurs une indemnité annuelle de séjour et une allocation de mobilité;

— contribue aux frais de formation/de recherche, aux frais de gestion et aux frais généraux engagés par l'établissement.

Tous les domaines de recherche mentionnés dans le TFUE peuvent être financés par les actions Marie Curie (y compris par l'action ₫Réseaux de formation initiale₻). Les candidats choisissent librement leur domaine de recherche. L'évaluation des projets porte uniquement sur la qualité de la recherche, la formation offerte, l'exécution et la portée du projet.

Grâce au programme Erasmus, l'Union finance également la mobilité des doctorants entre États membres pour une période de trois à douze mois (2 500 doctorants par an en moyenne, dont un tiers choisissent les entreprises).

Le site web Europa fournit des informations plus approfondies sur ces questions (134).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002137/12

to the Commission

Franck Proust (PPE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Help for PhD students

When I meet students, they often ask me: ‘what is Europe doing for us?’ I tell them that Europe is part of their daily lives (in their lessons), ensures international recognition of their qualifications and encourages them to experience life abroad (Erasmus programme). The EU is well aware that, by inculcating Europe’s youth with its values, a genuine European popular culture will emerge.

Yet it remains difficult to get them to see what Europe actually is doing for them. Many students go to another EU country to continue their education through a PhD.

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(29 March 2012)

The Union finances doctoral researchers all across Europe, mainly through the Marie Curie Actions. The Initial Training Networks action (ITN) in particular finances around 1 500 doctoral researchers each year. This action is divided into three implementation modes: Innovative Doctoral Programmes (IDP), European Industrial Doctorates (EID) and a third mode that allows the registration in a doctoral programme but does not make it mandatory. The applications for ITN financing are sent by networks of institutions. The organisations financed choose the doctoral candidates that will work on their project, but the selection procedure must be in line with the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.

For researchers at the doctoral level, the ITN Marie Curie action finances:

All the fields of research covered by the TFEU can be financed by the Marie Curie actions (including by ITN). The applicants choose their field of research freely. The projects are evaluated only on the quality of the research, training offered, implementation and impact of the project.

The Union also finances the mobility of doctoral candidates between the Member Sates, with the Erasmus programme, for a period of 3 to 12 months (2 500 doctoral candidates per year in average, of which 1/3 go to enterprises).

Further information can be found on the Europa website (135).

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-002138/12

à la Commission

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(23 février 2012)

Objet: Quinze États européens utilisent un pesticide interdit

Quinze pays européens, dont la Belgique, continuent à utiliser le Métam sodium, un biocide à très large spectre pourtant interdit, et ce grâce à l'une des plus belles ₫échappatoires₻ de la législation relative aux pesticides: les dérogations, prévues à l'article 8, paragraphe 4, de la directive 91/414/CEE.

La législation permet donc de continuer à utiliser pour des cultures de produits de consommation très courante un produit interdit, car dangereux. Le Métam sodium est en effet soupçonné, par l'USEPA (Agence américaine pour la protection de l'environnement), d'être cancérigène et un toxique de la reproduction et du développement. Pourtant, des millions de kilogrammes de ce gaz dangereux sont utilisés dans l'Union européenne pour la fumigation du sol. Cette utilisation se fonde sur un subterfuge figurant dans la décision du Conseil 2009/562/CE, qui prévoit des dérogations à cette interdiction.

Malgré l'interdiction de principe, une utilisation large est donc tolérée au nom de ₫l'usage essentiel₻ pour les États qui demandent à pouvoir bénéficier de cette dérogation. En France, des dérogations ont ainsi été accordées par l'État pour les cultures suivantes: légumes et plantes fruitières, essentiellement mâche, carottes, tomates, fraises, asperges, plantes ornementales, arbres et arbustes. En déposant une requête formelle d'accès aux documents, PAN Europe a pu récupérer les rapports obligatoires réalisés pour 2010 par ces 15 États membres qui utilisent le Métam sodium au nom de ₫l'usage essentiel₻ et les a analysés. Ces documents montrent que la France est le plus gros utilisateur de Métam sodium avec quelque six millions et demi de kilos sur ses terres agricoles! L'Espagne, le Portugal et la Grèce en sont aussi de gros utilisateurs. Des alternatives existent pourtant déjà, comme la pratique de rotations culturales plus longues ou l'utilisation de variétés résistantes. Le fait que 12 États membres n'utilisent pas de Métam sodium démontre bien la non recevabilité des dérogations délivrées!

— La Commission peut-elle expliquer la position laxiste de l'Union européenne à ce sujet?

— Qu'en est-il de la volonté de ces 15 États membres de vouloir légaliser le Métam sodium via une procédure rapide et ce contre l'avis de la FNSEA?

— Pourquoi ne fait-on pas pression sur ces États membres pour les obliger à rechercher des solutions alternatives?

Réponse donnée par M. Dalli au nom de la Commission

(20 mars 2012)

La Commission invite l'auteur de la question à se reporter à la réponse qu'elle avait donnée à la question écrite E-010855/2011 (136) et appelle son attention sur les considérations ci-après, qui sont destinées à répondre à ses préoccupations.

Sur la base de nouvelles études présentées par le demandeur, l'Autorité européenne de sécurité des aliments (EFSA) a revu et actualisé les conclusions sur le métham et les a transmises à la Commission en septembre 2011. Il en ressort qu'un agrément peut être octroyé, étant donné que l'évaluation des risques n'a révélé aucun danger pour le consommateur et que le produit peut être utilisé sans risque. Cet agrément devra toutefois être subordonné à certaines restrictions et à l'application de mesures d'atténuation des risques afin de limiter les effets liés à l'utilisation du produit.

Des recherches sont menées depuis quelques années pour trouver des techniques de substitution. D'autres solutions ont été définies et évaluées, mais elles requièrent souvent une adaptation des systèmes culturaux au niveau national. En outre, pour lutter contre les maladies de quarantaine et gérer la résistance des agents pathogènes, il est souhaitable de disposer de plusieurs moyens de prévention et de contrôle.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002138/12

to the Commission

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Fifteen EU Member States are using a banned pesticide

Fifteen European countries, including Belgium, continue to use metam-sodium, a banned broad-spectrum biocide, thanks to a large loophole in the legislation on pesticides: derogations, provided for in Article 8 (4) of Directive 91/414/EEC.

This legislation, therefore, allows the continued use of a dangerous banned product on crops used to produce very common consumer products. USEPA (United States Agency for Environmental Protection) suspects that metam-sodium is carcinogenic and toxic to reproduction and development. Yet millions of kilograms of these hazardous gases are used in the European Union to fumigate soil. Such usage is based on a subterfuge in Council Decision 2009/562/EC, which provides for derogations to this ban.

Despite the ban in principle, widespread use is still tolerated under the name of ‘essential use’ for states wanting to qualify for this derogation. In France, derogations have been granted by the State for the following crops: vegetables and fruit plants, mainly sweetcorn, carrots, tomatoes, strawberries, asparagus, ornamental plants, trees and shrubs. By filing a formal request for access to documents, PAN Europe retrieved and analysed the mandatory reports made in 2010 by the 15 Member States using metam-sodium under the name of ‘essential use’. These documents show that France is the biggest user of metam-sodium with some 6.5 million kilograms pumped into its farmland. Spain, Portugal and Greece are also heavy users. Alternatives are readily available, such as wider crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties. The fact that 12 Member States do not use metam-sodium clearly shows that the derogations issued are not acceptable.

— Can the Commission explain the European Union’s lax position on this matter?

— What is the Commission's opinion on the 15 Member States that want to legalise metam-sodium via a fast-track procedure against the advice of the FNSEA?

— Why is the Commission not putting pressure on those Member States, forcing them to seek alternative solutions?

Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission

(20 March 2012)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E‐010855/2011 (137) and would draw his attention to the following considerations to address his concern.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), on the basis of new studies submitted by the applicant, reviewed and updated the conclusions on metam and sent them to the Commission in September 2011. The new outcome allows for an approval since the consumer risk assessment has been positively concluded and a safe use has been identified. However, such approval will have to be subject to restrictions and to the application of risk mitigation measures to limit the impacts due to its use.

Research for alternative techniques has been ongoing for some years. Alternative methods have been identified and evaluated, but they often require adaptation of the cropping systems at national level. Moreover, to control quarantine diseases and for the management of resistance of pathogens it is advisable to have several possible means of prevention and control available.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002140/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(23 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Rossella Urru

Rapita da un commando nella notte tra il 22 e il 23 ottobre, Rossella Urru, 29 anni, cooperante italiana, che si occupava, per amore e spirito di volontariato, dei rifornimenti alimentari per il campo profughi Saharawi di Rabuni, si trova ormai da 4 mesi nelle mani di un gruppo armato del sud-est dell’Algeria. Le ultime notizie che si hanno di Rossella risalgono a dicembre, quando un gruppo dissidente dell’Aqmi (Jamat Tawhid Wal Jihad Fi Garbi Afriqqiya) ha rivendicato il rapimento. Da allora nessuna notizia è più pervenuta.

— Il Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante per la politica estera e la sicurezza comune è ha conoscenza di questa situazione?

— Come intende attivarsi affinché l'Europa, con i nuovi poteri conferiti dal trattato di Lisbona, partecipi alle indagini?

Risposta data dall'Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente Catherine Ashton a nome della Commissione

(26 aprile 2012)

L'Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente Ashton è al corrente della situazione e condanna fermamente il rapimento della Sig.ra Urru e di due operatori umanitari spagnoli.

I suoi servizi stanno seguendo da vicino i progressi delle indagini e la delegazione dell'UE in Algeria è in contatto con le autorità a tale riguardo.

L'Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente sostiene tutti gli sforzi compiuti in collaborazione con i governi della regione per ottenere il rilascio degli ostaggi il più rapidamente possibile.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002140/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Rossella Urru

Rossella Urru was kidnapped by a terrorist group during the night of 22-23 October 2011. The 29‐year-old Italian aid worker was, out of compassion and a desire to help, overseeing food supplies at the Saharawi refugee camp in Rabuni. She has now been in the hands of an armed group from south-east Algeria for the past four months. The last news heard about Rossella was in December 2011, when a dissident AQMI (al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb) group (Jamat Tawhid Wal Jihad Fi Garbi Afriqqiya) claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. No further news has been received since.

— Is the Vice-President/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy aware of this situation?

— What action will she take to ensure the EU is involved in the investigation, given the new powers conferred by the Treaty of Lisbon?

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

(26 April 2012)

The High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) Ashton is aware of the situation and strongly condemns the kidnapping of Mrs Urru and the two Spanish humanitarian workers.

Her services are following the progress of the inquiries closely and the EU Delegation in Algeria is in contact with the authorities regarding this issue.

The HR/VP supports all efforts in cooperation with governments of the region to obtain the release of the hostages as rapidly as possible.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta P-002142/12

alla Commissione

Debora Serracchiani (S&D)

(23 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Commercio illegale di animali

Con sempre maggiore frequenza gli organi di stampa riferiscono di casi di commercio illegale di animali. Un esempio recente riguarda l'Ungheria, da dove parte un traffico illegale di animali giovani trasportati a bordo di furgoni e altri veicoli, del tutto inadeguati, alla volta di altri Stati membri quali Spagna, Italia, Francia e Portogallo.

L'aumento dell'abbandono di animali è una delle conseguenze del commercio incontrollato di animali negli Stati membri, aggravato dall'ingresso illecito di altri animali vivi a bordo di mezzi di trasporto fatiscenti. Inoltre, questi animali non sono stati sottoposti ad alcun controllo sanitario e le condizioni in cui vengono trasportati mettono a serio rischio non solo la salute degli animali stessi ma anche quella delle persone che sono in contatto con essi.

Considerando che la Commissione sta preparando una seconda strategia europea per la protezione e il benessere degli animali, può essa far sapere quali misure intende adottare per prevenire e reprimere il traffico illecito di animali, tenendo conto dell'articolo 8 della Convenzione europea per la protezione degli animali da compagnia?

Può la Commissione indicare quali misure saranno adottate dall'Ufficio alimentare e veterinario (UAV) europeo, affinché il commercio, l'allevamento e la custodia siano realizzati tenendo realmente conto del benessere degli animali?

Risposta data da John Dalli a nome della Commissione

(10 aprile 2012)

In relazione al tema del commercio illegale di animali da compagnia la Commissione rimanda l'onorevole parlamentare alle risposte fornite alle precedenti interrogazioni scritte E-004525/2008, E-003787/2009, E-006868/2010, E-002270/2011, E-003343/2011, E-006602/2011 ed E-006808/2011 (138).

Il 5 marzo 2012 la Commissione ha adottato una proposta di regolamento del Parlamento europeo e del Consiglio sui movimenti a carattere non commerciale di animali da compagnia (139), che mira ad abrogare il regolamento attualmente in vigore (140). La Commissione ha proposto di rafforzare i poteri degli Stati membri in materia di controlli per verificare il rispetto delle disposizioni del nuovo regolamento e impedire quindi, con maggiore efficacia, che movimenti commerciali siano dissimulati fraudolentemente come movimenti non commerciali.

La Commissione desidera, tuttavia, sottolineare che la convenzione europea per la protezione degli animali da compagnia non fa parte del corpus legislativo dell'UE e spetta a ciascuno Stato membro decidere se ratificare e attuare tale convenzione elaborata sotto l'egida del Consiglio d'Europa, ossia al di fuori del quadro istituzionale dell'UE.

Il 19 gennaio 2012 la Commissione ha adottato la strategia dell'Unione europea per la protezione e il benessere degli animali 2012-2015 (141). È in questo quadro che nel 2014 la Commissione condurrà uno studio sul benessere di cani e gatti oggetto di pratiche commerciali. Alla luce delle conclusioni dello studio, la Commissione valuterà quali azioni siano necessarie per garantire una migliore protezione del benessere degli animali, nel rispetto dei principi di sussidiarietà e proporzionalità.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-002142/12

to the Commission

Debora Serracchiani (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Illegal trade in animals

With ever-greater frequency, the press cites cases of the illegal trade in animals. A recent example concerns Hungary, from where young animals are illegally trafficked and transported, in vans and other unsuitable vehicles, to other Member States such as Spain, Italy, France and Portugal.

The increase in animal abandonment is one of the consequences of the uncontrolled trade in animals between Member States and is exacerbated by the illegal influx of other live animals on dilapidated means of transport. Furthermore, these animals have not had any health checks and the conditions in which they are transported put not only the health of the animals at serious risk, but also that of people who come into contact with them.

In view of the fact that the Commission is currently preparing a second European Union strategy for the protection and welfare of animals, could it state which measures it intends to adopt to prevent and curb the illicit trade in animals, in consideration of Article 8 of the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals?

Can the Commission state what measures will be adopted by the European Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) to ensure that animals are traded, farmed and kept in a manner which genuinely takes animal welfare into account?

Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission

(10 April 2012)

With respect to the issue of illegal trade in pet animals the Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its replies to previous Written Questions E‐004525/2008, E‐003787/2009, E‐006868/2010, E‐002270/2011, E‐003343/2011, E‐006602/2011 and E‐006808/2011 (142).

The Commission adopted on 5 March 2012 a proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the non-commercial movement of pet animals (143) which aims at repealing the current Regulation (144) in force. The Commission has proposed to reinforce the Member States' powers on checks to verify compliance with the provisions of the new Regulation, and so better prevent commercial movements fraudulently disguised as non-commercial movements.

However, the Commission would like to stress that the European Convention for the protection of pet animals is not part of the body of EU legislation and it remains up to each Member State to decide whether they want to ratify and implement this Convention prepared under the aegis of the Council of Europe, i.e. outside the EU institutional framework.

On 19 January 2012, the Commission adopted an EU strategy for the protection and welfare of animals 2012-2015 (145). Within this framework in 2014, the Commission will perform a study on the welfare of dogs and cats involved in commercial practices. In the light of the findings of the study, the Commission will assess what actions are necessary to better protect animal welfare with due regard to the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality.

(българска версия)

Въпрос с искане за писмен отговор E-002145/12

до Комисията

Илияна Малинова Йотова (S&D)

(23 февруари 2012 г.)

Относно: Програма за развитие на селските райони

За периода 2007‐2013 г. България получава финансиране по програмата за развитие на селските райони, възлизащо на 2 642 248 596 EUR. Към 31 януари 2012 г. България е усвоила едва 842 110 143 EUR от тази сума, което представлява 31,87 %. Процентът на договорената сума е само 52,36 % или малко над половината от полагащите се средства — 1 383 580 420 EUR.

— Направила ли е Комисията оценка на нивото на усвояемост на България? Има ли безвъзвратно изгубени средства от програмата, които няма да могат да бъдат реализирани до края на нейното действие?

— Поддържа ли Комисията контакт с българските власти относно нивото на усвояемост по фондовете?

— Възможно ли е Комисията да наложи санкции върху България относно нивото на усвояемост и какви ще бъдат последиците за България, ако нивото на усвояемост не се подобри/покачи?

Отговор, даден от г-н Циолос от името на Комисията

(4 април 2012 г.)

Към края на февруари 2012 г. Комисията е възстановила на България общо 586 млн. EUR от Европейския земеделски фонд за развитие на селските райони (ЕЗФРСР) за плащания, направени в рамките на българската програма за развитие на селските райони 2007‐2013 г. (ПРСР), което се равнява на 22 % от общо отпуснатите по ЕЗФРСР средства. В момента се обработва още едно искане за около 251 млн. EUR, което, ако бъде одобрено, ще повиши нивото на плащанията до 32 %.

Да, като част от мониторинга по отношение на програмите на всички държави членки Комисията редовно проверява степента на изпълнение на българската ПРСР. Налице е потенциален риск за първа загуба на финансиране за българската ПРСР за края на 2011 г. по т.нар. n+2 правило за автоматична отмяна на финансов ангажимент. Дали това ще се потвърди, зависи от резултата от разглеждането на една промяна в българската ПРСР, което понастоящем се провежда от службите на Комисията.

Да. Като се има предвид доста ниската степен на изпълнение на българската ПРСР и произтичащия от това риск по правилото n+2, Комисията наблюдава отблизо тези проблеми съвместно с българските власти от 2010 г. насам в контекста на споделеното управление. Целта беше да се проучат възможните начини за ускоряване на изпълнението на ПРСР.

Не, Комисията не може да наложи „наказания“ на България или която и да било друга държава членка поради нивото им на усвояване на средства от ЕЗФРСР. Пълното усвояване на средства от ЕС е на първо място отговорност на съответната държава членка и изцяло в неин интерес. Според Комисията, ако нивото на усвояване по ПРСР не се повиши, има опасност България да бъде изправена пред (още) отмени на финансови ангажименти на средства от ЕЗФРСР по българската програма за развитие на селските райони до края на програмния период 2007‐2013 г.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002145/12

to the Commission

Iliana Malinova Iotova (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Rural Development Programme

Bulgaria is receiving funding amounting to EUR 2 642 248 596 under the Rural Development Programme, for the 2007-2013 period. By 31 January 2012, Bulgaria had absorbed only EUR 842 110 143, or 31.87 %, of that amount. The contracted amount, in percentage terms, is only 52.36 %, or slightly more than half of the resources due — EUR 1 383 580 420.

— Has the Commission carried out an assessment of Bulgaria’s absorption level? Are there any programmed resources which will definitively be forfeited and not available to be used by the end of the operational period for this programme?

— Is the Commission in contact with the Bulgarian authorities to discuss the funding absorption level?

— Can the Commission impose penalties on Bulgaria with regard to the absorption level, and what consequences would arise for Bulgaria if the absorption level failed to improve/rise?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(4 April 2012)

As of end February 2012, the Commission has reimbursed a total of EUR 586 million from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) for payments made under the Bulgarian Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (RDP), equivalent to 22 % of the overall EAFRD allocation. A further claim for some EUR 251 million is currently being processed and, if accepted in full, would bring the level of payments to 32 %.

Yes, as part of its monitoring activities for all Member States programmes, the Commission regularly examines the level of execution of the Bulgarian RDP. There is a potential risk of a first loss of funds to the Bulgarian RDP at end 2011 under the so-called n+2 automatic decommitment rule. Whether or not this will be confirmed depends on the outcome of the processing of a modification of the Bulgarian RDP, which is currently under examination by the Commission services.

Yes. Given the rather low level of implementation of the Bulgarian RDP and the consequent n+2 risk, the Commission has followed these issues closely with the Bulgarian authorities since 2010, in the context of shared management. The aim has to been to explore possible means to accelerate RDP implementation.

No, the Commission cannot impose ‘penalties’ as such on Bulgaria or any other Member State with regard to their absorption level of EAFRD funds. The full absorption of EU funds is in first instance the responsibility and in the interest of the Member State concerned. The consequence for Bulgaria if the absorption level under the RDP does not accelerate, is, in the Commission's assessment, a risk that Bulgaria may face (further) decommitments of EAFRD funds under its RDP in the remaining years of the 2007-2013 programming period.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002147/12

προς την Επιτροπή (Αντιπρόεδρος/Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος)

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(23 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: VP/HR — Κίνδυνος για τους νοσηλευόμενους στα συριακά νοσοκομεία

Υπάρχουν πολλές καταγγελίες ότι στα συριακά νοσοκομεία, όπου έχουν διεισδύσει οι κρατικές δυνάμεις ασφαλείας, οι γιατροί αναφέρουν τυχόν τραύματα που μπορεί να οφείλονται σε δραστηριότητες όπως το αντάρτικο πόλεων, με αποτέλεσμα οι ασθενείς να κινδυνεύουν να υποστούν βασανιστήρια από τις δυνάμεις ασφαλείας!

Το γεγονός ντροπιάζει την ιατρική επιστήμη διεθνώς και δείχνει το σημείο όπου έχει φτάσει το συριακό καθεστώς.

Ερωτάται η Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπος:

Απάντηση της Ύπατης Εκπροσώπου/Αντιπροέδρου Ashton εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(23 Μαΐου 2012)

Η ΕΕ έχει εκφράσει συστηματικά, πιο πρόσφατα στα συμπεράσματα του Συμβουλίου Εξωτερικών Υποθέσεων της 23ης Μαρτίου 2012, τις ανησυχίες της σχετικά με την επιδείνωση των συνθηκών διαβίωσης του πληθυσμού της Συρίας. Έχει ζητήσει από το καθεστώς να επιτρέψει την άμεση, απρόσκοπτη και πλήρη πρόσβαση των ανθρωπιστικών οργανώσεων σε όλες τις περιοχές της Συρίας, ώστε να τους επιτραπεί να παράσχουν ανθρωπιστική βοήθεια και ιατρική περίθαλψη.

Σε αρκετές δηλώσεις η ΥΕ/ΑΠ, καθώς και οι αρχηγοί αποστολών της ΕΕ στη Δαμασκό, ζήτησαν από τη συριακή κυβέρνηση να σεβαστεί πλήρως την αμεροληψία και ανεξαρτησία των ανθρωπιστικών οργανώσεων και των εργαζομένων σε αυτές. Καταδίκασαν τις παράνομες επιθέσεις εις βάρος του ιατρικού προσωπικού και των εγκαταστάσεων που φέρουν τα σύμβολα της Ερυθράς Ημισελήνου και ζήτησαν από το καθεστώς να προστατεύσει όλες τις εγκαταστάσεις, τους επαγγελματίες και τους εθελοντές στον τομέα της υγείας. Επανειλημμένα τόνισαν ότι η συριακή κυβέρνηση πρέπει να εγγυηθεί και να διευκολύνει την ασφαλή και χωρίς διακρίσεις πρόσβαση σε ιατρική περίθαλψη όλων όσοι την έχουν ανάγκη.

Παράλληλα, η ΕΕ υποστήριξε πλήρως τις διεθνείς προσπάθειες για τη διασφάλιση συντονισμένης, ταχείας και αποτελεσματικής ανθρωπιστικής ανταπόκρισης στην κρίση. Σ’ αυτό το πλαίσιο, δέχθηκε με ικανοποίηση τα αποτελέσματα του δεύτερου ανθρωπιστικού φόρουμ για τη Συρία, που πραγματοποιήθηκε στη Γενεύη στις 20 Απριλίου 2012, το οποίο ζητά αυξημένη πρόσβαση και κλιμάκωση των ανθρωπιστικών δυνατοτήτων για την κάλυψη των ανθρωπιστικών αναγκών που έχουν εντοπιστεί. Το συνολικό ποσό της ανθρωπιστικής βοήθειας ανέρχεται σε 32 εκατομμύρια ευρώ, εκ των οποίων 2,2 εκατομμύρια ευρώ θα δοθούν για έκτακτη ιατρική περίθαλψη που θα προσφέρουν η Διεθνής Επιτροπή του Ερυθρού Σταυρού (ΔΕΕΣ) και η Διεθνής Ομοσπονδία Ερυθρού Σταυρού και των Οργανώσεων της Ερυθράς Ημισελήνου (IFRC). Επειδή οι ανάγκες μεγαλώνουν, η ΕΕ και τα κράτη μέλη της αύξησαν την οικονομική στήριξη στις ανθρωπιστικές οργανώσεις και θα συνεχίσουν την κινητοποίηση για την απαραίτητη βοήθεια.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002147/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Dangers facing patients in Syrian hospitals

There are many allegations that in Syrian hospitals, which have been penetrated by State security forces, doctors are reporting injuries caused by actions such as guerrilla warfare, putting patients in danger of being taken for torture by the security forces.

This is an embarrassment for international medical science and shows the point the Syrian regime has reached.

Will the Vice-President/High Representative answer the following:

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

(23 May 2012)

The EU has consistently, most recently in its Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) conclusions of 23 March 2012 — expressed its concern at the increasingly worsening humanitarian plight of the Syrian population. It has urged the regime to grant immediate, unimpeded and full access of humanitarian organisations to all areas of Syria in order to allow them to deliver humanitarian assistance and medical care.

In several statements the HR/VP, as well as the EU Heads of Mission (HoMs) in Damascus, called on the Syrian Government to fully respect the impartiality and independence of humanitarian workers and organisations. They condemned the illegal attacks against medical staff and installations carrying the symbols of the Red Crescent and requested the regime to protect all medical facilities, professionals and volunteers. They reiterated that the Syrian Government needs to guarantee and facilitate safe access to medical treatment for all those in need without any discrimination.

At the same time, the EU has fully supported international efforts to ensure a coordinated, rapid and effective humanitarian response to the crisis. In this respect, it welcomed the outcome of the second Syria Humanitarian Forum held on 20 April 2012 in Geneva, calling for increased access and scaling up of humanitarian capacities to meet the identified humanitarian needs. The total EU humanitarian assistance amounts to EUR 32 million, out of which EUR 2.2 million are for emergency medical care implemented by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). In the light of growing needs, the EU and Member States have increased their financial support to humanitarian organisations and will continue to mobilise the necessary assistance.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002148/12

to the Commission

Gay Mitchell (PPE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Commission's Green Paper on the right to family reunification

In relation to Directive 2003/86/EC on the right to family reunification, a 2008 report by the Commission on said directive notes a number of incorrect transpositions and misapplications of the directive. The report also reveals that the directive’s impact on harmonisation in the field of family reunification remains limited.

Will the Commission clarify whether or not it has launched the necessary procedural steps for non-compliance, where appropriate, and in particular in cases where there are clear differences between the Member States and the Commission in the interpretation of Community law?

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(30 March 2012)

The Commission in its published implementation report (COM(2008) 610) of the directive on the right to family reunification (Directive EC/2003/86) has identified some problems in the ways and means Member States implement these EU rules.

The Commission has and will continue to closely monitor Member States' present legislative and administrative practices with specific regard to the cases where application problems were previously identified and will ensure that the provisions are correctly applied, in particular in conformity with fundamental rights such as respect for family life, the rights of the child and the right to an effective remedy. This can imply where appropriate launching the necessary steps for non-compliance in accordance with Article 258 TFEU.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002149/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Gay Mitchell (PPE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Human rights abuses in Ethiopia

Is the Vice-President/High Representative concerned about the human rights abuses currently taking place in Ethiopia?

Human Rights Watch has previously reported on how the Ethiopian Government is using access to aid as a weapon to control people and crush dissent. Will the Vice-President/High Representative outline what her position is on the matter, and will she make a statement?

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

(17 April 2012)

The EU is following very closely the human rights situation in Ethiopia. We are paying close attention to the application of the Anti Terrorism Proclamation, which allows for a wide interpretation of terrorism and its impact on freedom of media and expression. Democracy and human rights are essential elements of a partnership that both Ethiopia and the EU have subscribed to. While we have a strong desire to remain partners to make progress in the areas of food security, poverty reduction, and economic development as well as to peace and security in the region, we have questions regarding civil and political rights as well as the respect for fundamental human rights in Ethiopia.

The positive results achieved so far confirm the effectiveness of the partnership approach in delivering assistance to Ethiopia. This also provides the basis on which the EU can speak as a partner regarding human rights, democratic principles, good governance and the rule of law, allowing the EU to make full use of the ongoing dialogue with the government to address concerns regarding civil, political as well as human rights in Ethiopia.

In research conducted by the Donor Assistance Group in Ethiopia in response to information referred to by Human Rights Watch in various reports published in 2010 and 2011, we did not find credible evidence of widespread or systemic political distortion. We found that all programmes in question have accountability systems in place that provide checks on distortion, including distortion for political gain. Donors are confident that we have built in monitoring and safeguard mechanisms that give reasonable assurance that aid is being used for its intended purpose.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-002150/12

à Comissão (Vice-Presidente / Alta Representante)

Ana Gomes (S&D)

(23 de fevereiro de 2012)

Assunto: VP/HR — Operação Atalanta

Os navios envolvidos na Operação Atalanta e as outras forças navais ao largo da costa da Somália representam um conjunto extraordinário e poderoso de navios de guerra, incorrendo numa enorme despesa operacional, com vista a fornecer proteção contra um número relativamente limitado de piratas mal armados em pequenas embarcações. Considerando as alternativas possíveis, tais como uma guarda costeira equipada com armas ligeiras e os sólidos esforços para lidar com a pesca ilícita e o despejo de resíduos, por que razão insiste a UE na utilização deste tipo de força, tendo em conta, especialmente, o sucesso limitado e as duras críticas recebidas de diversos somalis, inclusive de funcionários do governo?

A Conferência de Londres sustenta que tratará as ₫causas profundas₻. Além disso, muitas declarações oficiais referiram a necessidade de uma abordagem ₫holística₻. No entanto, a existência de uma grande força naval internacional não parece refletir esta linha de pensamento.

Por que razão não aplica a UE esta abordagem holística à Operação Atalanta e aos esforços globais que desenvolve no âmbito da sua presença ao largo da costa da Somália?

Resposta dada pela Alta Representante/Vice-Presidente Catherine Ashton em nome da Comissão

(25 de junho de 2012)

A UE aplica uma abordagem holística para combater a pirataria no mar e tratar as suas causas profundas em terra. Desde o seu lançamento em 2008, a operação Atalanta da Eunavfor foi completada por acordos de transferência com países terceiros, o apoio e a facilitação das estratégias regionais e a execução do código de conduta de Djibuti. O comunicado da Conferência de Londres salienta que o problema da pirataria não pode ser resolvido apenas pela via militar: de facto, os piratas operam frequentemente a partir de pequenas embarcações, mas são eficazes porque dispõem de informações fiáveis. O Grupo de Contacto para a Pirataria ao largo da Costa da Somália (WG V), em que a UE participa ativamente, centra o seu trabalho na deteção dos fluxos financeiros gerados pela pirataria, visando, assim, tanto os que beneficiam da pirataria como os que fornecem informações. Uma missão de reforço das capacidades navais regionais no âmbito da Política Comum de Segurança e Defesa (PCSD) irá fortalecer as capacidades da polícia marítima na Somália e as funções de vigilância costeira nos países do Corno de África. Não dispondo de meios regionais para conduzir operações costeiras com armas ligeiras, não há uma alternativa viável às operações navais.

Existem outras soluções para combater a pirataria que já demonstraram ser eficazes: guardas armados a bordo dos navios que transitam ao largo da costa da Somália (as tripulações acolheram-nos bem) e a adoção das melhores práticas de gestão preconizadas pela Organização Marítima Internacional.

A falta de oportunidades de vida está intrinsecamente ligada à precariedade. Se somarmos a este problema a inexistência de um Estado de direito, temos um ambiente ideal para a criminalidade, nomeadamente a pirataria. A abordagem holística da UE relativamente à Somália visa tratar as causas profundas da insegurança, através de apoio no domínio político, do desenvolvimento, do Estado de direito e da segurança e é nesse contexto que se insere a Operação Atalanta. Desde a sua criação, o mandato da Operação Atalanta já foi ampliado e prorrogado, sempre com o objetivo de estar um passo à frente da tática utilizada pelos piratas.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002150/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Ana Gomes (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Operation Atalanta

The ships involved in Operation Atalanta and the other naval forces off the coast of Somalia represent an extraordinary assemblage of powerful advanced warships, incurring enormous operating expense in order to provide protection against a relatively small number of lightly-armed pirates in small boats. Considering the alternative possibilities such as a lightly-armed coastguard and robust efforts to address illegal fishing and dumping, why does the EU persist in this use of force, especially in view of the limited success and the strong criticism it has attracted from many Somalis, including even government officials?

The London Conference says it will address ‘root causes’, and many official statements have referred to the need for a ‘holistic’ approach. A large international naval force does not seem to reflect this thinking.

Why is the EU not applying this holistic approach to Operation Atalanta and its overall efforts in its presence off the coast of Somalia?

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

(25 June 2012)

The EU has a ‘holistic’ approach to tackle piracy at sea and address its root causes on land. Since its launch in 2008, EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta has been complemented by Transfer Agreements with third countries, by facilitation and support for regional strategies, and implementation of the Djibouti Code of Conduct. The London Conference Communiqué highlights that piracy cannot be solved by military means alone: indeed pirates often operate from small boats, yet are effective due to access to quality intelligence. The Contact Group for Piracy off the Coast of Somalia WG V, where the EU actively participates, works to track the financial flows of piracy, leading to both those benefiting from piracy and providing intelligence. A planned Regional Maritime Capacity Building Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) mission will strengthen maritime police forces in Somalia and coastguard functions of Horn countries. Without regional means to conduct lightly armed coastal operations, there is no viable alternative to naval operations.

Other anti-piracy schemes are also proving effective: armed guards aboard vessels transiting off the Somali coast (crew have welcomed them), as well as the use of Best Management practices advocated by the International Maritime Organisation.

Lack of life chances are intricately linked to insecurity. Together with the absence of the rule of law, they provide an enabling environment for criminality, including piracy. The EU's broader approach to Somalia aims to tackle the root causes of insecurity through political, development, rule of law and security support Operation Atalanta is an integral part of this. Since its inception, its mandate has been broadened and extended, to stay a step ahead of pirates' tactics.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-002151/12

à Comissão (Vice-Presidente / Alta Representante)

Ana Gomes (S&D)

(23 de fevereiro de 2012)

Assunto: VP/HR — Operação Atalanta II

A Operação Atalanta é a primeira operação naval da União Europeia no exterior. O mandato prioritário da operação consiste em proteger as embarcações contra a pirataria ao largo da costa da Somália. Devido aos diversos relatos de outros crimes marítimos na região, tais como a pesca estrangeira ilegal e a descarga ilegal de resíduos tóxicos, a operação foi mandatada desde o seu início, em finais de 2008, para controlar a pesca nessas águas. O porta‐voz da operação disse recentemente a uma ONG que as informações recolhidas ao abrigo do mandato de pesca, que abrange operações de pesca numa distância de 200 milhas náuticas da costa da Somália, foram ₫encaminhadas para Bruxelas₻.

Tendo em conta a importância destas informações para a elaboração de políticas sobre a pirataria ao largo da Somália e sobre a crise da Somália de um modo geral, gostaria de perguntar se as informações recolhidas pela Operação Atalanta sobre as embarcações de pesca durante o período de mais de três anos no qual a força naval europeia foi implementada, nomeadamente as informações sobre navios estrangeiros de grande dimensão que possam estar a operar clandestinamente, se tornarão públicas e, caso contrário, por que razão.

Tendo em conta as acusações de descarga de resíduos tóxicos, gostaria igualmente de perguntar se a Operação Atalanta recolheu qualquer informação sobre este tópico e se esta informação se tornará pública.

Finalmente, gostaria de perguntar se a UE encaminhou esta informação para as Nações Unidas, cujo Conselho de Segurança tem trabalhado ativamente no que diz respeito ao assunto em apreço.

Resposta dada pela Alta Representante/Vice-Presidente Catherine Ashton em nome da Comissão

(8 de junho de 2012)

As informações sobre a pesca ao largo da costa da Somália recolhidas pela Operação Atalanta da Eunavfor são enviadas regularmente à Comissão.

A Operação Atalanta da Eunavfor não recolheu nem enviou informações sobre a descarga de resíduos tóxicos.

A Operação Atalanta da Eunavfor enviou também as informações sobre a pesca ao largo da costa da Somália ao Departamento dos Assuntos Políticos do Secretariado da ONU, a pedido deste departamento.

Assinale-se que não existem provas relativas às alegações referidas. A Comissão sublinhou sempre a falta de consistência das acusações de pesca ilegal praticada por navios da UE nas águas da Somália. No que se refere aos navios de pesca da UE, os dados do Sistema de Localização dos Navios por Satélite (VMS) têm vindo a ser verificados desde há algum tempo e não revelam qualquer entrada nas águas da Somália. Será dada especial atenção, no futuro, à análise cuidada dos registos, de forma a verificar as eventuais incursões ou a prática de pesca ilegal e o modo de combater estes fenómenos. Se forem detetadas incursões, as autoridades competentes serão chamadas a apresentar explicações.

Neste contexto, convém relembrar que os navios de pesca da UE que se encontrem no Oceano Índico estão sujeitos às normas da Comissão do Atum do Oceano Índico, que gere a pesca de atum na região, aos princípios da política comum das pescas e aos acordos de pesca bilaterais que a Comunidade tiver celebrado com países terceiros da região. Além disso, no cumprimento da sua missão no terreno, a Operação Atalanta da Eunavfor não observou qualquer indício de pesca ilegal nas águas da Somália.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002151/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Ana Gomes (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Operation Atalanta II

Operation Atalanta is the European Union’s first out-of-area naval operation. The primary mandate of the operation is to protect shipping against piracy off the coast of Somalia. Because there have been many reports of other maritime crimes in the area — illegal foreign fishing and illegal toxic waste dumping — the operation has been mandated since its inception in late 2008 to monitor fishing in these waters. The spokesperson of the operation recently told an NGO that information gathered under the fishing mandate, covering fishing operations within 200 nautical miles of the Somali coast, has been ‘forwarded to Brussels’.

In light of the importance of this information to policy making on piracy off Somalia and on the Somalia crisis more generally, I would like to ask whether the information gathered by Operation Atalanta about fishing vessels during the period of more than three years that this European naval force has been deployed — in particular information about large-scale foreign vessels which may be operating illegally — will be made public and, if it will not be, why not.

In light of the charges of toxic dumping, I would also like to ask whether Operation Atalanta has gathered any information on this topic and if this information will be made public.

Finally, I would like to ask whether the EU has forwarded this information to the United Nations, where the Security Council has been active with regard to the matter.

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

(8 June 2012)

Information on fishing off the coast of Somalia collected by EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta is regularly forwarded to the Commission.

On toxic waste dumping, no information has been gathered or reported by EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta.

EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta has also forwarded information on fishing off the coast of Somalia to the United Nations Secretariat's Department of Political Affairs at its request.

It should be underlined that there is a lack of proof regarding these allegations. The Commission has always highlighted the inconsistency of the accusations relating to alleged illegal fishing by EU vessels in the waters of Somalia. With regard to EU fishing vessels, regular monitoring of the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) data has been carried out for some time now and the analysed data records show no entries into Somali waters. Particular attention will be paid to analysing future records in depth to assess whether incursions are taking place, if illegal fishing is going on and to what extent this can be curbed. If incursions are spotted, relevant authorities are asked to explain.

In this context, it should be recalled that EU fishing vessels in the Indian Ocean are bound by the rules of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, which manages the tuna fisheries in the region, the principles of the common fisheries policy and the Bilateral Fisheries Agreements the Community has in the region with third countries. Moreover, in the course of its duty, EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta has not observed any evidence whatsoever of illegal fishing in Somali waters.

(Tekstas lietuvių kalba)

Klausimas, į kurį atsakoma raštu, Nr. E-002152/12

Komisijai

Justas Vincas Paleckis (S&D)

(2012 m. vasario 23 d.)

Tema: Dėl išmetamo CO2 kiekio

2010 m. valstybės narės sudarė programą, kaip Europa turėtų išbristi iš krizės ir susistiprėti. Susitarta, kad pagal šią ilgalaikę viziją iki 2020 m. išmetamo CO2 kiekis bus sumažintas 20 proc. Sveikintina, kad EK žengia toliau ir Komunikate „Galimybių sumažinti išmetamųjų šiltnamio efektą sukeliančių dujų kiekį daugiau nei 20 % analizė ir anglies dioksido nutekėjimo rizikos vertinimas “ skatina valstybes nares siekti dar didesnio išmetamo CO2 kiekio sumažinimo.

Tačiau iš naujausios EK pažangos ataskaitos įgyvendinant strategijos „Europa 2020“ tikslus matyti, kad didelė dalis valstybių pasyviai dirba šioje srityje, o pati EK pripažįsta, kad priemonės bendram ES tikslui iki 2020 m. pasiekti yra nepakankamos. Ataskaitoje nepateikiama informacija apie konkrečią valstybių narių pažangą mažinant išmetamo CO2 kiekį.

Europos Komisija, pristatydama 2012 m. metinę augimo apžvalgą, artimiausiems metams nustatė išimtinai ekonominius Sąjungos prioritetus. Jie susiję su makroekonominiu stabilumu, fiskaline drausme, struktūrinėmis reformomis, augimą skatinančiomis priemonėmis, užimtumu ir kt. EK neišskyrė veiksmų klimato srityje ir energetikos politikoje būtinumo nei dėl jų svarbos ekologiniams valstybių įsipareigojimams, nei kaip priemonės ekonominiam augimui skatinti.

— Ar EK nemano, kad, akcentuodama tik ekonominius ir fiskalinius uždavinius, ji į antrą planą nustumia ES valstybių klimato kaitos planų įgyvendinimą?

— Kokių priemonių EK numato imtis, kad šiais metais ES valstybės narės sumažintų išmetamo CO2 kiekį?

— Kaip pažangos nedarančios valstybės narės bus skatinamos sumažinti išmetamo CO2 kiekį?

C. Hedegaard atsakymas Komisijos vardu

(2012 m. kovo 30 d.)

Tvarus augimas – vienas iš trijų pagrindinių strategijos „Europa 2020“ prioritetų, o klimato kaitos ir energetikos sričių tikslai – vieni iš penkių vienodos svarbos pagrindinių tikslų. 2012 m. metinėje augimo apžvalgoje Komisija paragino valstybes nares imtis aktyvesnių veiksmų ekologinių mokesčių srityje, palaipsniui atsisakyti aplinkai žalingų subsidijų ir daugiau (arba ne mažiau nei dabar) lėšų skirti augimui palankioms sritims, tokioms kaip veiksmingas energijos vartojimas; Komisija priminė, kad tam galima būtų panaudoti pajamas, gautas aukcionuose pardavinėjant apyvartinius CO2 taršos leidimus.

Klimato kaitos ir energetikos dokumentų rinkinyje nustatytas tikslas pasiekti, kad iki 2020 m. šiltnamio efektą sukeliančių dujų būtų išmetama 20 proc. mažiau, palyginti su 1990 m.; šį tikslą kartu turi pasiekti sektoriai, kuriems ES prekybos taršos leidimais sistema taikoma, ir sektoriai, kuriems ji netaikoma. Sektoriuose, kuriems taikoma ES prekybos taršos leidimais sistema, atitiktį padeda užtikrinti metinis atitikties užtikrinimo ciklas ir galimybė, kad bus skirtos labai didelės finansinės baudos. Kol kas pagal ES prekybos taršos leidimais sistemą nustatytos išmetamųjų teršalų ribos viršytos nebuvo. Sektoriuose, kuriems ES prekybos taršos leidimais sistema netaikoma, teisiškai privalomi metiniai šiltnamio efektą sukeliančių dujų išlakų mažinimo tikslai visose valstybėse narėse bus pradėti taikyti nuo 2013 m. Komisija atidžiai stebi pažangą siekiant šių tikslų, kasmet atsiskaito Tarybai ir Parlamentui ir kiekvienai šaliai teikia jai skirtas rekomendacijas, atsižvelgdama į strategiją „Europa 2020“. Nepavykus pasiekti nacionalinių tikslų būtų taikomos taisomosios priemonės ir pradėta pažeidimo nagrinėjimo procedūra.

Kad padėtų valstybėms narėms pasiekti nustatytus tikslus, Komisija ir toliau remia ES mastu taikomas priemones, kurios šiuo metu įgyvendinamos arba svarstomos (pvz., veiksmingo energijos vartojimo priemonės, parodomoji mažai anglies dioksido į atmosferą išskiriančių technologijų programa, su klimatu susijusių ES išlaidų padidinimas bent iki 20 proc. ES biudžeto).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002152/12

to the Commission

Justas Vincas Paleckis (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: CO2 emissions

In 2010, Member States established a programme for Europe to find a way out of the crisis and become stronger. They agreed that, under this long-term vision, CO2 emissions would be reduced by 20 % by 2020. The fact that the Commission is going further and, in its communication entitled ‘Analysis of options to move beyond 20 % greenhouse gas emission reductions and assessing the risk of carbon leakage’, is encouraging Member States to seek an even greater reduction in CO2 emissions is to be welcomed.

However, from the latest Commission progress report on achieving the Europe 2020 targets it can be seen that many Member States are taking a passive approach in this area, and the Commission recognises that measures to achieve the collective EU target by 2020 are insufficient. The report does not provide information on the specific progress made by Member States to reduce CO2 emissions.

In its Annual Growth Survey 2012, the Commission set out the EU’s economic priorities for 2012. They concern macroeconomic stability, fiscal discipline, structural reforms, measures to boost growth and employment, etc. The Commission did not highlight the need for action on the climate and in energy policy, either in terms of their importance for the Member States’ environmental obligations or as measures for boosting economic growth.

— Does the Commission feel that, by only emphasising economic and fiscal challenges, it is relegating the climate change plans of EU Member States to a place of secondary importance?

— What steps does the Commission plan to take to ensure that EU Member States reduce CO2 emissions this year?

— How will Member States that are making no progress be encouraged to reduce CO2 emissions?

Answer given by Ms Hedegaard on behalf of the Commission

(30 March 2012)

In the Europe 2020 strategy, sustainable growth is one of the three key priorities and the climate and energy objectives constitute one of the five equally important headline targets. In the Annual Growth Survey 2012, the Commission called on Member States to advance on green taxation, to phase out environmentally harmful subsidies and to reinforce or preserve expenditure in growth-friendly areas such as energy efficiency, for which, as the Commission recalled, revenues from the auctioning of CO2 emission allowances could be used.

The Climate and Energy Package sets a 20 % greenhouse gas emission reduction target by 2020 compared to 1990, which is divided between the Emission Trading System (ETS) and non-ETS sectors. For the sectors covered by the EU ETS, an annual compliance cycle and the possibility of very high financial penalties contribute to ensure compliance. So far, the emission limits set under the EU ETS have never been exceeded. In sectors not covered by the EU ETS, legally-binding annual greenhouse emission reduction targets will apply to all Member States from 2013. The Commission closely monitors progress towards these targets, annually reports to the Council and the Parliament and provides country-specific recommendations as appropriate under the Europe 2020 strategy. Failing to reach the national targets would lead to corrective measures and the launch of an infringement procedure.

In order to help Member States reach their targets, the Commission continues to support EU‐wide measures that are currently being implemented or under discussion (e.g. energy efficiency measures, the demonstration programme for low-carbon technologies, the increase of EU climate-related expenditure to at least 20 % of the EU budget).

(Wersja polska)

Pytanie wymagające odpowiedzi pisemnej E-002153/12

do Rady

Ryszard Antoni Legutko (ECR)

(23 lutego 2012 r.)

Przedmiot: Wpisanie rzeki Odry na listę projektów priorytetowych w ramach sieci bazowej TEN-T (Baltic – Adriatic Corridor, załącznik 1 CE

Projekt rozporządzenia Parlamentu Europejskiego i Rady z dnia 19.10.2011 r. w sprawie unijnych wytycznych dotyczących rozwoju transeuropejskiej sieci transportowej ((2011/0294) (COD)) w art. 17 ogranicza możliwość wpisania szlaków żeglugi śródlądowej do rzek, które są co najmniej IV klasą drogi wodnej.

Zapis ten automatycznie pozbawia rzeki Polskie m.in. Odry, możliwości znalezienia się w gronie projektów priorytetowych w ramach sieci bazowej.

Należy podkreślić, że Odra w umowie AGN została wpisana jako rzeka o znaczeniu międzynarodowym. Brak Odry wśród priorytetowych projektów Unii Europejskiej doprowadzi do sytuacji, w której trudno będzie mówić o spójności żeglugi śródlądowej w Europie. Ze względów geograficznych jest to wręcz niemożliwe, o czym świadczą liczne wypowiedzi specjalistów zajmujących się tą tematyką.

Modernizacja Odrzańskiej Drogi Wodnej to nie tylko wymagania wynikające z potrzeb transportowych; modernizacja ma również istotne znaczenie dla zwiększenia bezpieczeństwa przeciwpowodziowego, zapewnienia stabilnych stosunków wodnych w dorzeczu oraz wykorzystania rzek jako źródła energii odnawialnej. Modernizacja ta oznacza wzrost znaczenia regionów nadodrzańskich w wymianie gospodarczej oraz ich pełną integrację z systemem europejskich dróg wodnych.

— W związku z powyższym, czy Rada zamierza wycofać się z kontrowersyjnego zapisu w projekcie rozporządzenia z dnia 19.10.2011 r.?

— Jakie działania zamierza podjąć Rada w celu wpisania rzeki Odry na listę projektów priorytetowych w ramach sieci bazowej TEN-T (konkretnie Baltic – Adriatic Corridor, załącznik 1 CEF)?

Odpowiedź

(23 maja 2012 r.)

Wniosek Komisji dotyczący rozporządzenia Parlamentu Europejskiego i Rady w sprawie unijnych wytycznych dotyczących rozwoju transeuropejskiej sieci transportowej (wytycznych TEN-T) został przedłożony Radzie w dniu 24 października 2011 r. (146) W dniu 28 października 2011 r. Komisja przedłożyła również wniosek dotyczący rozporządzenia Parlamentu Europejskiego i Rady ustanawiającego instrument „Łącząc Europę” (CEF) (147).

W podejściu ogólnym do wytycznych TEN-T – przyjętym w dniu 22 marca 2012 r. (148) – Rada poparła propozycję Komisji, by do sieci TEN-T włączyć jedynie te śródlądowe drogi wodne, które są przynajmniej drogami IV klasy żeglowności. Jednak zgodziła się zastrzec w przypisie, że do tekstu wprowadzony zostanie nowy motyw, który zaleca Komisji, by w roku 2023 w ramach przeglądu we współpracy z zainteresowanymi państwami członkowskimi oceniła, czy do sieci nie należy włączyć także innych elementów, np. niektórych śródlądowych dróg wodnych III klasy. W dniu 19 kwietnia 2012 r. Rada przystąpiła do analizy motywów.

Wniosek w sprawie instrumentu „Łącząc Europę” Rada jeszcze analizuje i na razie nie przyjęła stanowiska w jego sprawie.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002153/12

to the Council

Ryszard Antoni Legutko (ECR)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Inclusion of the River Oder in the list of priority projects within the TEN‐T Core Network (Baltic — Adriatic Corridor, Annex A CEF)

Article 17 of the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2011 on Union guidelines for the development of the Trans-European Transport Network (2011/0294 (COD)) stipulates that only rivers that are at least class IV waterways may be included as inland navigation routes.

This provision automatically deprives Polish rivers, including the Oder, of the possibility of inclusion in the list of Core Network priority projects.

It should be stressed that the Oder was included in the AGN Agreement as a river of international significance. If the Oder is absent from the list of the European Union’s priority projects, the result will be a situation in which there can be little talk of coherent inland navigation in Europe. In geographical terms this is impossible, a fact to which numerous specialists in the field have testified.

Modernisation of the Oder waterway is necessitated not only by transport needs; modernisation is also of major significance in terms of providing a greater level of flood defence, ensuring stable water relations in the drainage basin and utilising rivers as a source of renewable energy. Modernisation will increase the significance of the regions surrounding the Oder in terms of trade, and enable their full integration into the European waterways system.

— In connection with the above, does the Council intend to withdraw its support for the controversial provision in the proposal for a regulation of 19 October 2011?

— What action does the Council intend to take with a view to including the River Oder on the list of priority projects within the TEN‐T Core Network (specifically Baltic — Adriatic Corridor, Annex A CEF)?

Reply

(23 May 2012)

A Commission proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on guidelines for the development of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN‐T Guidelines) was submitted to the Council on 24 October 2011 (149). On 28 October 2011, the Commission also submitted a proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) (150).

In its general approach on the TEN‐T Guidelines, adopted on 22 March 2012 (151), the Council supported the Commission’s proposal concerning the inclusion of only inland waterways meeting the IVth class of navigability to the TEN‐T. However, the Council agreed upon a footnote which provides for the inclusion of a recital stating that in the framework of the revision in 2023, the Commission should evaluate in cooperation with the Member States concerned whether other parts, such as certain class III inland waterways, should be integrated into the network. The Council has started examining the recitals on 19 April 2012.

The Council is currently examining the CEF proposal and has therefore not yet adopted its position.

(Wersja polska)

Pytanie wymagające odpowiedzi pisemnej E-002154/12

do Komisji

Ryszard Antoni Legutko (ECR)

(23 lutego 2012 r.)

Przedmiot: Wpisanie rzeki Odry na listę projektów priorytetowych w ramach sieci bazowej TEN-T (Baltic – Adriatic Corridor, załącznik 1 CEF)

Projekt rozporządzenia Parlamentu Europejskiego i Rady z dnia 19.10.2011 r. w sprawie unijnych wytycznych dotyczących rozwoju transeuropejskiej sieci transportowej ((2011/0294) (COD)) w art. 17 ogranicza możliwość wpisania szlaków żeglugi śródlądowej do rzek, które są co najmniej IV klasą drogi wodnej.

Zapis ten automatycznie pozbawia rzeki Polskie m.in. Odry, możliwości znalezienia się w gronie projektów priorytetowych w ramach sieci bazowej.

Należy podkreślić, że Odra w umowie AGN została wpisana jako rzeka o znaczeniu międzynarodowym. Brak Odry wśród priorytetowych projektów Unii Europejskiej doprowadzi do sytuacji, w której trudno będzie mówić o spójności żeglugi śródlądowej w Europie. Ze względów geograficznych jest to wręcz niemożliwe, o czym świadczą liczne wypowiedzi specjalistów zajmujących się tą tematyką.

Modernizacja Odrzańskiej Drogi Wodnej to nie tylko wymagania wynikające z potrzeb transportowych; modernizacja ma również istotne znaczenie dla zwiększenia bezpieczeństwa przeciwpowodziowego, zapewnienia stabilnych stosunków wodnych w dorzeczu oraz wykorzystania rzek jako źródła energii odnawialnej. Modernizacja ta oznacza wzrost znaczenia regionów nadodrzańskich w wymianie gospodarczej oraz ich pełną integrację z systemem europejskich dróg wodnych.

— W związku z powyższym, czy Komisja zamierza wycofać się z kontrowersyjnego zapisu w projekcie rozporządzenia z dnia 19.10.2011 r.?

— Jakie działania zamierza podjąć Komisja w celu wpisania rzeki Odry na listę projektów priorytetowych w ramach sieci bazowej TEN-T (konkretnie Baltic – Adriatic Corridor, załącznik 1 CEF)?

Odpowiedź udzielona przez komisarza Siima Kallasa w imieniu Komisji

(4 kwietnia 2012 r.)

Komisja stworzyła sieć bazową według obiektywnej metodologii, która przed przyjęciem projektu w sprawie wytycznych TEN-T była przedmiotem dwuletniego procesu konsultacji. Państwa członkowskie były bardzo w niego zaangażowane. W związku z tym Komisja jest przekonana, że wniosek jest dobrze opracowany i nie widzi powodu, aby wprowadzać w nim zmiany.

Odnośnie do włączenia Odry do transeuropejskiej sieci transportowej, Komisja opierała się na podziale na kategorie w ramach klasyfikacji ustanowionej przez Europejską Konferencję Ministrów Transportu (152). Podział ten jest przestawiony na mapie europejskich śródlądowych dróg wodnych przygotowanej w 2006 r. przez Europejską Komisję Gospodarczą ONZ (EKG ONZ). śródlądowe drogi wodne klasy IV są zdefiniowane jako najniższa kategoria dróg o znaczeniu międzynarodowym. Drogi klasy od I do III określa się jako mające jedynie regionalne znaczenie.

Metodologia TEN-T przewiduje włączenie do sieci także tych odcinków śródlądowych dróg wodnych, w stosunku do których państwa członkowskie przedstawiły konkretny plan modernizacji zgodny z prawem UE (a zwłaszcza ze strategiczną oceną oddziaływania na środowisko, Dyrektywą Wodną i projektem Natura 2000). Polska administracja takiego planu nie dostarczyła.

Wniosek Komisji podlega obecnie zwykłej procedurze ustawodawczej w Radzie i Parlamencie Europejskim.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002154/12

to the Commission

Ryszard Antoni Legutko (ECR)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Inclusion of the River Oder in the list of priority projects within the TEN‐T Core Network (Baltic — Adriatic Corridor, Annex A CEF)

Article 17 of the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2011 on Union guidelines for the development of the Trans-European Transport Network (2011/0294(COD)) stipulates that only rivers which are at least class IV waterways may be included as inland navigation routes.

This provision automatically deprives Polish rivers, including the Oder, of the possibility of inclusion in the list of Core Network priority projects.

It should be stressed that the Oder was included in the AGN Agreement as a river of international significance. If the Oder is absent from the list of the European Union’s priority projects, the result will be a situation in which there can be little talk of coherent inland navigation in Europe. In geographical terms this is impossible, a fact to which numerous specialists in the field have testified.

Modernisation of the Oder waterway is necessitated not only by transport needs; modernisation is also of major significance in terms of providing a greater level of flood defence, ensuring stable water relations in the drainage basin and utilising rivers as a source of renewable energy. Modernisation will increase the significance of the regions surrounding the Oder in terms of trade, and enable their full integration into the European waterways system.

— In connection with the above, does the Commission intend to withdraw its support for the controversial provision in the proposal for a regulation of 19 October 2011?

— What action does the Commission intend to take with a view to including the River Oder on the list of priority projects within the TEN‐T Core Network (specifically Baltic — Adriatic Corridor, Annex A CEF)?

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(4 April 2012)

The Commission has established the Core Network based on an objective methodology that has been discussed during a two year long consultation process preceding the adoption of the TEN‐T Guidelines proposal. Member States have been closely involved in this process. The Commission is, therefore, of the opinion that its proposal is robust and there will be no reason to alter it.

With regard to the inclusion of the Oder in the trans-European transport network, the Commission has referred to the categories as defined by the classification laid down by the European Conference of Ministers of Transport (153). This is reflected by the map of ‘European Inland Waterways’ as edited by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) of 2006. The class IV inland waterways (IWW) is defined as the lowest category of international importance. The IWW of categories I to III are defined as only of regional importance.

The TEN‐T methodology has also foreseen to include those sections of IWW for which the Member State has a concrete plan to upgrade which is in accordance with EU legislation (notably, the strategic environmental assessment (SEA), water framework directive, NATURA2000). The Polish administration did not provide such a plan.

The Commission’s proposal is now subject to the ordinary legislative procedure with Council and European Parliament.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002155/12

a la Comisión

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(23 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Posible afección sobre el LIC Ríos Cinca y Alcanadre en Pomar de Cinca (Aragón)

En el término municipal de Pomar de Cinca (Huesca, Aragón), se han producido por parte de un particular unas importantes roturaciones y nivelaciones de terreno en las cercanías de la antigua escombrera de Monzón, con el objetivo de adaptarlo a la plantación de frutales.

Esta intervención se ha realizado en una zona incluida en el Lugar de Importancia Comunitaria ES2410073 Ríos Cinca y Alcanadre, que abarca unas 6 200 hectáreas. Ambos ríos constituyen dos importantes arterias fluviales que actúan como corredor biológico de muchas especies de fauna y flora, a la vez que unen el Prepirineo con el fondo del valle del Ebro. Cabe recordar que la llanura de inundación del río Cinca conforma un valle plano en el que discurren numerosos canales separados por barras de gravas y un cauce trenzado de curso bajo, lo cual se corresponde con una tipología muy escasa en el continente europeo y extremadamente sensible ante cualquier regulación artificial del régimen fluvial.

En este marco, una actuación como la realizada en Pomar de Cinca puede provocar un cambio de la raíz de la geomorfología de la zona, de las escorrentías y flujos de agua sobre la superficie del terreno, además de modificar el paisaje existente y afectar a la flora y fauna local, con el agravante de que en caso de lluvia se facilitaría la deposición de fertilizantes sobre el barranco de la Clamor de Pomar.

— Por ello, ¿posee la Comisión información sobre el impacto medioambiental que estas actuaciones pueden tener sobre el LIC Ríos Cinca y Alcanadre? De no ser así, ¿piensa solicitar la Comisión información al Departamento de Agricultura, Ganadería y Medio Ambiente de Aragón?

— En este contexto, ¿qué acciones ha emprendido y va a emprender la Comisión para preservar esta zona de alto valor ecológico y, en particular, para garantizar el respeto de la Directiva 92/43/CEE relativa a la conservación de los hábitats naturales y de la fauna y flora silvestres y de la Directiva 79/409/CEE relativa a la conservación de las aves silvestres?

Respuesta del Sr. Potočnik en nombre de la Comisión

(17 de abril de 2012)

La Comisión no dispone de información sobre el proyecto mencionado por Su Señoría o sobre la posible incidencia de dicho proyecto en el lugar ES 24100073 ₫Ríos Cinca y Alcanadre₻. La información facilitada por Su Señoría no proporciona suficientes detalles sobre la naturaleza de la incidencia y la importancia de los daños que este proyecto podría ocasionar al lugar Natura 2000. La Comisión ruega a Su Señoría le facilite más datos para poder iniciar una investigación.

La Comisión recuerda que corresponde principalmente a las autoridades nacionales garantizar el cumplimiento de la Directiva 92/43/CEE (154).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002155/12

to the Commission

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Possible adverse effects on the Cinca and Alcanadre Rivers SCI in Pomar de Cinca (Aragón)

In the municipality of Pomar de Cinca (Huesca, Aragón), a private individual has carried out major ploughing and levelling of land near the old dump site of Monzón, in order to prepare it for planting an orchard.

This has occurred in an area included in the Cinca and Alcanadre Rivers site of Community importance (SCI, ES2410073), covering an area of some 6 200 hectares. Both rivers constitute important water arteries, acting as a biological corridor for many species of fauna and flora, while also linking the Pyrenean foothills to the floor of the Ebro River valley. It should be noted that the floodplain of the Cinca River forms a valley plain through which numerous shallow channels, separated by gravel banks, run on a braided course of a type that is very rare in the European continent and extremely sensitive to any artificial regulation of river flows.

In this context, action such as that carried out in Pomar de Cinca may cause a fundamental change to the area’s geomorphology and to runoffs and water flows on the ground surface, while also modifying the existing landscape and affecting flora and fauna. All of this is made worse by the fact that any rain would facilitate the deposit of fertilisers on the Clamor de Pomar Gorge.

— Given the above, does the Commission have information about the environmental impact these activities may have on the Cinca and Alcanadre Rivers SCI? If not, does the Commission intend to request information from Aragón’s Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Environment?

— In this context, what action has the Commission taken, and does it intend to take, to preserve this area of high ecological value and, in particular, to ensure compliance with Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and wild fauna and flora, and Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(17 April 2012)

The Commission does not posses information on the project mentioned by the Honourable Member or about the impact that it might have on the site ES 24100073 ‘Ríos Cinca y Alcanadre’. The information provided by the Honourable Member does not have sufficient details on the nature of the impacts and the significance of the damage that this project could cause on the Natura 2000 site. The Commission would ask the Honourable Member to provide more details in order to be able to launch an investigation.

The Commission would like to recall that the responsibility for ensuring compliance with Directive 92/43/EEC (155) lies primarily with the national authorities.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002156/12

to the Commission

Nessa Childers (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: VAT rates for archivists, archival firms and genealogists

The value added tax (VAT) rates in Ireland have recently changed, with the ‘lower’ band of VAT — reserved for ‘labour-intensive work’ — reduced from 13.5 % to 12 %, and the ‘higher’ band of VAT increased from 21 % to 23 %.

As it stands, the services of archivists, archival firms and genealogists remain in the higher band of VAT. However, the Archives and Records Association, Ireland (ARAI) believe that these professions belong to the lower band of VAT, and has requested that they be classified as such by the Irish Government.

The Irish Minister for Finance, however, has stated in reply that: ‘under the EU VAT directive, Member States may only apply the reduced VAT rate to those goods and services which are listed under Annex III of the VAT Directive. As Annex III does not provide for a reduced rate of VAT to be applied to the services of archivists, archival firms and genealogists, it is not possible for the reduced rate to apply to them’.

— Is it definitively the case that archivists, archival firms and genealogists cannot qualify for the reduced band of VAT under the terms of the EU VAT Directive?

— Would the Commission restrict the Irish government from attempting to classify these services under the lower band of VAT, if it chose to do so?

Answer given by Mr Šemeta on behalf of the Commission

(28 March 2012)

The Commission confirms the reply provided to the Honourable Member by the Irish Minister for Finance.

Indeed, only the goods and services listed in Annex III to the VAT Directive (156) may be subject to a reduced VAT rate set no lower than 5 %. The services of archivists, archival firms and genealogists do not form part of Annex III and must be taxed at the standard rate.

The application of a reduced VAT rate to these services would therefore be incompatible with the EU VAT Directive.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002157/12

to the Commission

Edward McMillan-Scott (ALDE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: The health of honeybees and the existence of varroa-resistant native dark honeybees in the North York Moors National Park

In 2004, the Beekeeping and Biodiversity in Europe (BABE) project was completed, which confirmed through DNA sampling carried out by the University of Copenhagen that native dark honeybees (Apis mellifera mellifera) exist in the North York Moors National Park, England. Of 49 samples submitted from the eastern side of the National Park, only three samples were found to have been genetically contaminated by foreign bees. Furthermore, a natural defence mechanism against the varroa mite has been found in all North York Moors native colonies tested, with the most recent figures dating from 2009. Selective breeding to produce bees fully resistant to varroa can only be achieved if beekeepers in the area can maintain this genetically stable population free from foreign bee influence.

In light of the results of the 2001-2004 BABE project, the EU’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity, Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 which commits to ‘control of varroasis’, amongst other measures, and the Commission’s 2010 communication COM(2010) 0714 on ‘Honeybee Health’:

Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission

(12 April 2012)

1-2.Following the BABE project, the Commission supported EU research to develop still missing knowledge on bee genetics and on sustainable apiculture and pollination. Examples include the FP6 project ALARM (157), on pollinators and changes in biodiversity, the FP7 project STEP (158) on the pan-European status of pollinators and FP6 Bee Shop (159) and FP7 Bee Doc (160) projects addressing various aspects of the bee genome and resistance to pests and pathogens in European honeybee races.

To facilitate the use of relevant EU‐funded research results (such as those of BABE), the Commission requires the projects to disseminate the results and new knowledge to potential users. By focusing on key societal challenges and innovation, the new research framework programme (161) is expected to make uptake of results even more immediate and effective. EU coordination and dissemination of up-to-date science has been strengthened also by designating an EU reference laboratory for bee health (162) and an EU bee health research webpage (163).

3.It is the responsibility of the Member States and the beekeeping industry to ensure a proper follow-up of research results (e.g. the selective breeding of bees to fight against varroasis). The Commission provides co-financing for certain measures, e.g. the control of varroasis is one of the measures provided for under Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 (164) to improve general conditions for the production and marketing of apiculture products. The Commission also supports cooperation with specialised bodies for the implementation of applied research programmes. The Commission is undertaking an evaluation of the use of these measures by Member States and their effectiveness. This will include, as part of an EU overview, a description of the situation in the United Kingdom.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002158/12

to the Commission

Claude Moraes (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Human rights and the EU‐Colombia Free Trade Agreement

According to the most recent figures from the Trade Union Congress, more trade unionists are killed in Colombia each year than in all other countries combined. Several of my constituents have raised concerns that the free trade agreement which the EU is expected to conclude with Colombia later this year does not go far enough in addressing these atrocities, and may even serve to exacerbate them.

Could the Commission therefore detail how it will address these concerns and how it will ensure that the EU‐Colombia Free Trade Agreement is fully supportive of human rights?

Answer given by Mr De Gucht on behalf of the Commission

(10 April 2012)

The Commission is aware that the human rights situation in Colombia is far from perfect. Nevertheless, all the efforts deployed by the Colombian government so as to bring justice to the victims of this violence, to enhance protection measures for individuals and to prevent further occurrences of this nature have showed encouraging results. Although there is still much progress to be made, the International Labour Organisation has recognised that the situation has positively changed and significant improvements have been achieved in recent years.

With this in mind, the Commission has monitored this process and has actively engaged in a dialogue with Colombian authorities, International Organisations and NGOs on the nature of human rights violations and the most appropriate means to address the situation. In this respect, special emphasis has been placed on labour rights. The Commission considers that all the steps taken during the negotiation process have already contributed to a series of positive developments in the human rights field, expecting that the Colombian government will be able to deliver further positive results with the entry into force of the Trade Agreement.

The Commission considers the current human rights provisions as negotiated in the agreement are fully addressing the human rights challenges that Colombia is still facing. The unilaterally enforceable human rights clause together with the binding commitments to effectively implement core labour standards and effectively enforce domestic labour laws will be effective mechanisms to hold the Colombian government to its commitments on the integrity of trade unionists and the protection of human rights.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002160/12

to the Commission

Gay Mitchell (PPE)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: Commission proposal for a revision of European Good Distribution Practice Guidelines (GDP)

In relation to the Commission’s proposal for a revision of European Good Distribution Practice Guidelines (GDP), will the Commission clarify whether it has considered the cost-benefit impact of the proposed new requirements, to ensure that they are not overly burdensome for wholesale distributors of medicinal products?

Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission

(3 April 2012)

The revised GDP guidelines are based on advancements of practices for an appropriate storage and distribution of medicinal products in the European Union. The Commission has paid particular attention to avoid any unnecessary costs for wholesale distributors.

The proposed changes to the guidelines take into account extensive feedback from various experts conducting inspections of the wholesale distributors and the GDP guide from the World Health Organisation. Following the consultation in 2011, the Commission will now conduct an in-depth assessment of each comment, in collaboration with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and will then consult the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use at the EMA, and the Pharmaceutical Committee where all Member States are represented.

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-002161/12

à la Commission

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(23 février 2012)

Objet: Place des agricultrices dans la nouvelle politique agricole commune

Comme la plupart des États membres, la Belgique est confrontée, depuis une trentaine d'années, à une érosion massive du nombre de ses exploitations agricoles. Aujourd'hui, avec une diminution d'environ mille fermes par an, le nombre d'agricultrices (principalement des conjointes aidantes) qui sont contraintes de quitter le monde agricole pour ₫aller chercher₻ du travail ailleurs est inquiétant: il avoisinerait les 6 %.

Souvent peu qualifiées, ces agricultrices se résignent, si elles veulent subvenir aux besoins de leurs familles, à accepter des emplois précaires, peu valorisants et mal rémunérés.

Pourtant, tout le monde s'accorde à dire que le potentiel économique des femmes, de toutes les générations, est primordial dans les exploitations agricoles. Les hommes et les femmes doivent conserver des perspectives d'avenir en matière de vie et de prospérité en région rurale.

Il est nécessaire de mettre en œuvre le principe d'égalité des sexes dans la politique agricole commune car c'est un moyen de promouvoir une croissance économique durable et le développement rural. Il est donc essentiel que l'Union européenne recentre ses stratégies de soutien afin de développer les zones rurales de manière à faciliter la vie des femmes.

Il s'agit notamment de promouvoir l'attitude entrepreneuriale et les compétences des femmes dans l'agriculture, d'améliorer l'accès et la formation spécifique des femmes, d'équiper les zones rurales d'infrastructures modernes, de viser une plus grande reconnaissance et plus de soutien pour les réseaux de femmes, de favoriser la qualité et l'accessibilité des installations d'infrastructure et de service, de mettre en place une sécurité sociale adéquate pour les femmes travaillant dans l'agriculture, d'assurer la propriété partagée des exploitations agricoles, et plus généralement de porter une attention particulière aux femmes.

Quelles sont les mesures prioritaires que la Commission compte proposer pour maintenir les femmes dans les exploitations agricoles et ainsi valoriser la pérennisation du nombre des agriculteurs dans l'Union européenne?

Réponse donnée par M. Cioloș au nom de la Commission

(28 mars 2012)

La Commission estime que l'égalité entre les hommes et les femmes et l'entreprenariat féminin dans les zones rurales sont indispensables au développement du potentiel humain et social dans ces zones. Les besoins des femmes dans les zones rurales sont examinés par les orientations stratégiques de la Communauté pour le développement rural, qui énumèrent les priorités du développement rural au niveau européen. La promotion de l'entrée des femmes sur le marché du travail est considérée comme une action clé dans les orientations. Les programmes de développement rural offrent, à l'heure actuelle, des mesures telles que l'aide aux jeunes agriculteurs, la diversification, les microentreprises, l'approche Leader et la formation professionnelle, que les États membres peuvent aussi orienter vers les femmes.

Le principe de non-discrimination entre les sexes sera maintenu dans la future politique agricole commune. Le nouveau projet de loi (165) prévoit un nombre suffisant d'outils pour répondre aux besoins des femmes dans les zones rurales, dans le cadre de l'aide au développement des activités agricoles et des entreprises, de la formation et de mesures de transfert des connaissances, mais aussi de mesures de coopération et du programme Leader. La mise à disposition de services de garde abordables pour les autres personnes à charge est également une composante importante permettant aux femmes issues de zones rurales d'obtenir leur indépendance économique.Ces outils peuvent, dans leur ensemble, servir dans le cadre de projets visant les femmes et les femmes entrepreneurs ainsi que des projets développés par les femmes.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002161/12

to the Commission

Marc Tarabella (S&D)

(23 February 2012)

Subject: The place of women farmers in the new common agricultural policy

Like most Member States, Belgium has, over the last 30 years or so, seen a huge decline in the number of farms. With about 1 000 farms currently going out of business every year, women farmers (mainly assisting spouses) are being forced to leave farming in order to seek work elsewhere, and the scale of the phenomenon is worrying: the figure is thought to be close to 6 %.

Since, in many cases, they have few qualifications, if they want to provide for their families these women farmers have to resign themselves to accepting poorly paid low-status jobs, with little job security.

Yet everyone agrees that the economic potential of women, of all generations, is essential on farms. Men and women in rural areas are entitled to have a future in terms of living standards and prosperity.

The principle of gender equality needs to be applied to the common agricultural policy, as it is a way of promoting sustainable economic growth and rural development. It is therefore vital for the European Union to refocus its support strategies in order to develop rural areas with a view to making women’s lives easier.

In particular, this means promoting the entrepreneurial mind-set and the skills of women in agriculture, improving access and specific training for women, equipping rural areas with modern infrastructure, aiming for greater recognition of, and more support for, women’s networks, promoting the quality and accessibility of infrastructure and service facilities, introducing proper social security for women working in agriculture, bringing about shared farm ownership, and, in general, paying more attention to women.

What measures will the Commission propose as a matter of priority to keep women on farms and thereby maintain the number of farmers in the European Union on a lasting basis?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(28 March 2012)

The Commission considers gender mainstreaming and female entrepreneurship in rural areas as vital for building their human and social potential in those areas. The needs of women in rural areas are addressed by the Community Strategic Guidelines for Rural Development (RD) which identifies the priorities for RD on European level. The guidelines mention the encouragement of the entry of women into the labour market as a key action. The Rural Development Programmes offer at present measures like support to young farmers, diversification, micro enterprises, Leader approach or vocational training which can also be targeted by Member States to women.

The principle of non-discrimination between genders will be maintained in the future common agricultural policy. Sufficient tools which address the needs of women in rural areas are provided in the new proposed legislation (166) in the context of the farm and business development support, the training and knowledge transfer measures as well as through a cooperation measure and Leader. The provision of affordable care services for other dependants is also an important element to allow women from rural areas to gain economic independence. All these tools can cover projects that target women and female entrepreneurs as well as projects developed by women themselves.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002164/12

προς την Επιτροπή

Kriton Arsenis (S&D)

(24 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: Μετανάστευση της δισφαινόλης Α στο πόσιμο νερό

Σύμφωνα με τη διεθνή περιβαλλοντική οργάνωση Chemsec υπάρχει κίνδυνος επιμόλυνσης του πόσιμου νερού από τη δισφαινόλη Α (BPA) ή τη δισφαινόλη Α διγλυκιδυλικός αιθέρας (BADGE). Οι εποξικές ρητίνες που παρασκευάζονται από BPA ή BADGE χρησιμοποιούνται στην επανεπένδυση (relining) του εσωτερικού των πεπαλαιωμένων σωλήνων ύδρευσης για την αποκατάστασή τους. Σύμφωνα, ωστόσο, με τους Bae et al (2002), η BPA μπορεί να διαρρεύσει στο πόσιμο νερό από τους σωλήνες ύδρευσης, με την ποσότητα αυτή να αυξάνεται με την αύξηση της θερμοκρασίας. Διαρροή της BPA από τους σωλήνες στο πόσιμο νερό, έχει αναφερθεί επίσης, όταν η εποξική ρητίνη δεν είχε αναμιχθεί σωστά ή δεν είχε αρκετό χρόνο για να στεγνώσει. Έχουν υπάρξει αναφορές για συγκεντρώσεις της BPA άνω των 30 ppb (μg/lt) στο νερό αφού είχε θερμανθεί μέχρι 70 °C. Με το πέρασμα του χρόνου και την αλλοίωση των εποξικών ρητινών έχει επίσης παρατηρηθεί διαρροή της BPA στο πόσιμο νερό. Η BPA είναι ορμονικός διαταράκτης και η χρήση της έχει συνδεθεί με καρκινογενέσεις, μείωση γονιμότητας, διαβήτη, παχυσαρκία κ.ά. Λόγω των δυσμενών επιπτώσεων της BPA στην υγεία, αρκετές χώρες έχουν απαγορεύσει τη χρήση της κυρίως στα προϊόντα για μικρά παιδιά (μπιμπερό και υλικά συσκευασίας τροφίμων). Στην ΕΕ δεν υπάρχει νομοθεσία για τη χρήση της BPA στους σωλήνες ύδρευσης αλλά ούτε και για τα επίπεδα της BPA στο πόσιμο νερό.

Η Ευρωπαϊκή Επιτροπή θα πρέπει να λάβει υπόψη της τις επιστημονικές μελέτες που καταδεικνύουν την επικινδυνότητα της BPA για τον ανθρώπινο οργανισμό και το περιβάλλον και να απαγορεύσει τη χρήση προϊόντων που περιέχουν BPA στους σωλήνες ύδρευσης.

Λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τα ανωτέρω, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Potočnik εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(16 Απριλίου 2012)

Η Επιτροπή είναι πλήρως ενήμερη για τις ανησυχίες σχετικά με τους ενδεχόμενους κινδύνους που συνδέονται με την έκθεση του ανθρώπου στη δισφαινόλη Α μέσω της τροφικής αλυσίδας. Σχετικά με το θέμα αυτό, παραπέμπουμε το Αξιότιμο Μέλος του Κοινοβουλίου στην απάντηση της Επιτροπής στην κοινοβουλευτική ερώτηση E-010732/2011 (167).

Η Επιτροπή δεν διαθέτει καμία πληροφορία σχετικά με τις προσπάθειες που καταβάλλουν τα κράτη μέλη για την αποκατάσταση/αντικατάσταση των σωλήνων ύδρευσης με εποξική ρητίνη που περιέχει δισφαινόλη A. Η Επιτροπή δεν σχεδιάζει επί του παρόντος να προτείνει ρυθμιστικά μέτρα για τη χρήση δισφαινόλης A στους σωλήνες ύδρευσης ούτε να διαθέσει ειδικά κονδύλια έρευνας για την εξεύρεση εναλλακτικών υλικών. Προς το παρόν, κανένα πρόγραμμα της Επιτροπής δεν περιλαμβάνει την ενθάρρυνση των επιχειρήσεων να αναπτύξουν υλικά που δεν περιέχουν δισφαινόλη Α.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002164/12

to the Commission

Kriton Arsenis (S&D)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: Migration of bisphenol A into drinking water

According to the international environmental organisation Chemsec, drinking water is at risk of being contaminated by bisphenol A (BPA) or bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE). Epoxy resins made from BPA or BADGE are used to reline the inside of deteriorating water pipes to repair them. However, according to Bae et al. (2002), BPA can leak into drinking water from the water pipes, its amount increasing with an increase in temperature. BPA leakage from pipes into drinking water has also been reported when the epoxy resins have not been mixed properly or have not had enough time to dry. There have been reports of BPA concentration of more than 30 ppb (mg/lt) in water reaching a temperature of 70°C. BPA leakage in drinking water has also been observed with the passage of time and the deterioration of the epoxy resins. BPA is a hormone disturber and its use has been linked to carcinogenicity, reduced fertility, diabetes, obesity and others. Due to the detrimental impacts of BPA on health, many countries have banned its use, mainly in products for small children (bottles and food packaging materials). In the EU, there is no legislation on the use of BPA in water pipes, nor on BPA levels in drinking water.

The European Commission should consider the scientific studies that prove the risk of BPA to the human body and the environment and should prohibit the use of products containing BPA in water pipes.

In view of this:

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(16 April 2012)

The Commission is well aware of the concerns relating to the potential risks associated with human exposure to Bisphenol A through the food chain. In this context the Honourable Member is referred to the Commissions answer to parliamentary Question E‐010732/2011 (168).

The Commission does not have any information concerning efforts being taken by Member States to restore/replace water pipes with epoxy resin containing BPA. The Commission does not currently have any plans either to propose measures to regulate the use of BPA in water pipes or to set up special research funds to find alternative materials. At this time, encouraging companies to develop materials not containing BPA is not part of a Commission programme.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002165/12

προς την Επιτροπή

Kriton Arsenis (S&D)

(24 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: Προστασία των οικοσυστημάτων και των ειδών βαθέων υδάτων από αλιευτικές δραστηριότητες

Με τον τρόπο που ασκείται επί του παρόντος η αλίευση σε βαθιά ύδατα, έχει σοβαρές περιβαλλοντικές επιπτώσεις ευρείας κλίμακας στα οικοσυστήματα των ωκεανών. Έχει αποδειχθεί ότι η αλιεία σε βαθιά νερά προκαλεί ζημιές στα ευάλωτα οικοσυστήματα λόγω της υπεραλίευσης εξαιρετικά ευάλωτων ειδών βαθέων υδάτων, λόγω των υψηλών ποσοστών παρεμπιπτόντων αλιευμάτων με αποτέλεσμα τις σπάταλες απορρίψεις τους, και επειδή τα αλιευτικά εργαλεία, κυρίως οι τράτες βυθού, έρχονται σε επαφή με το βυθό της θάλασσας. Βάσει μιας νέας ανάλυσης πολιτικής από την περιβαλλοντική οργάνωση PEW και σύμφωνα με διάφορες εκτιμήσεις, αποδεικνύεται ότι το καθεστώς της ΕΕ για τη διαχείριση της αλιείας σε βαθιά ύδατα δεν είναι το κατάλληλο, δεν εφαρμόζεται επαρκώς και δεν συνάδει με τις διεθνείς συμφωνίες ούτε με τις νομικές υποχρεώσεις για βιώσιμη διαχείριση της αλιείας. Πολυάριθμες επιστημονικές μελέτες έχουν καταλήξει στο συμπέρασμα ότι οι τράτες βυθού σε βαθιά ύδατα συνιστούν τη μεγαλύτερη απειλή για τα ευάλωτα είδη και οικοσυστήματα βαθέων υδάτων.

Επιπλέον, το Διεθνές Συμβούλιο για την Εξερεύνηση της Θάλασσας (ICES) εκτιμά ότι η αλιεία βαθέων υδάτων από τους στόλους αλιευτικών της ΕΕ στον βορειοανατολικό Ατλαντικό είναι εντελώς εκτός των ασφαλών βιολογικών ορίων και συστήνει να ελαττωθεί σημαντικά ή να απαγορευτεί δια παντός η αλιεία βαθέων υδάτων.

Ενόψει της προσεχούς πρότασης για το καθεστώς πρόσβασης σε βαθιά ύδατα:

Απάντηση της κας Δαμανάκη εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(3 Απριλίου 2012)

Στόχος της Επιτροπής είναι η εξασφάλιση της αειφόρου εκμετάλλευσης των ειδών βαθέων υδάτων και η ταυτόχρονη μέγιστη δυνατή μείωση των επιπτώσεων της αλιείας βαθέων υδάτων στο θαλάσσιο περιβάλλον. Η διατήρηση τόσο του ευπαθούς θαλάσσιου οικοσυστήματος, όσο και των ιχθυαποθεμάτων βαθέων υδάτων σε υγιή κατάσταση αποτελεί προτεραιότητα της στρατηγικής της Επιτροπής.

Η Επιτροπή ολοκληρώνει τις διαβουλεύσεις του προπαρασκευαστικού της έργου, με σκοπό την προσεχή έγκριση πρότασης για την ενίσχυση του καθεστώτος πρόσβασης της αλιείας βαθέων υδάτων. Η Επιτροπή είναι πρόθυμη να συζητήσει διεξοδικά με το αξιότιμο μέλος του Κοινοβουλίου τα συγκεκριμένα θέματα που θέτει στην ερώτησή του, μόλις εγκριθεί η πρόταση.

Η Επιτροπή έχει ήδη διενεργήσει εκτίμηση κοινωνικοοικονομικών επιπτώσεων πριν από την κατάρτιση της πρότασής της. Η εκτίμηση αυτή περιλαμβάνει ανάλυση των επιλογών ύστερα από διαβούλευση με όλους τους ενδιαφερόμενους φορείς και τα ενδιαφερόμενα κράτη μέλη και σχολιασμό από μέρους τους και θα καταστεί διαθέσιμη μαζί με την πρόταση.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002165/12

to the Commission

Kriton Arsenis (S&D)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: Protecting deep-sea ecosystems and species against fishing activities

As currently practiced, deep-sea fishing has serious and widespread environmental consequences for ocean ecosystems. Deep-sea fishing has been found to damage vulnerable ecosystems as a result of overfishing of highly vulnerable deep-sea species, high by-catch rates, leading to wasteful discarding, and fishing gear, particularly bottom trawl gear, coming into contact with the seabed. According to a new policy analysis by the PEW Environmental Group, various assessments have found that the EU’s deep-sea fisheries management regime is inadequate, poorly enforced and inconsistent with international agreements and legal obligations for the sustainable management of fisheries. Numerous scientific studies have concluded that deep-sea bottom trawl fishing poses the greatest threat to vulnerable deep-sea species and ecosystems.

In addition, the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) estimates that EU fleets’ catch of deep-water fish in the north-east Atlantic by EU fleets is entirely ‘outside safe biological limits’ and has recommended that fishing for deep-sea species should be significantly reduced or ended entirely.

Pending the forthcoming deep-sea access regime proposal:

Answer given by Ms Damanaki on behalf of the Commission.

(3 April 2012)

The Commission aims to ensure sustainable exploitation of deep-sea species while reducing the impact of deep-sea fishing operations in the marine environment as much as possible. Maintaining both, vulnerable marine ecosystem and deep-sea stocks in a healthy situation is a priority of the Commission's strategy.

The Commission is finalising its preparatory work consultations with a view to adopting a proposal reinforcing the access regime for deep sea fisheries shortly. The Commission will be pleased to have an in-depth discussion with the Honourable Member on the matters specifically raised in his question, as soon as the proposal is adopted.

The Commission has already carried out a socioeconomic impact assessment prior to developing its proposal. It contains an analysis of options after consultation and feedback with all the stakeholders and Member States concerned and will become available together with the proposal.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002166/12

to the Commission

Jim Higgins (PPE)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: Minimum standards for WIFI on trains

Further to its answer to Question E‐000674/2012, does the Commission feel it important that customers should be entitled to know in advance whether or not a WIFI service will be available on a train, and does the Commission have any plans to encourage train operators, as public transport providers, to increase the availability of WIFI on trains, so as to ensure that there is a modal shift from private motorcars to environmentally sustainable means of transport, which should be a Commission priority?

Can the Commission outline what compensation passengers might be entitled to if a WIFI service did not work properly, resulting in costs for them because they were unable to conduct business?

If there are no EU rules at present, are there plans to introduce guidance measures in relation to this point?

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(22 March 2012)

The provision of WiFi on trains is not a matter which is, or need be, regulated at EU level. Nonetheless, the Commission agrees with the Honourable Member that the provision of high quality rail services is an important element in encouraging greater use of rail transport, as foreseen in last year's White Paper on the Future of Transport. The rail legislation already adopted by the EU and the further provisions the Commission is planning to propose later in 2012 are intended to further stimulate such innovation in the rail sector.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-002167/12

προς την Επιτροπή

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(24 Φεβρουαρίου 2012)

Θέμα: Στρατηγική για την αντιμετώπιση των θανάτων από την πείνα διεθνώς

Κατά το έτος 2011 οι άνθρωποι που αντιμετώπισαν υποσιτισμό διεθνώς προσέγγισαν το ένα δισ. ψυχές σύμφωνα με τον FAO, ενώ κάθε 5 δευτερόλεπτα ένα παιδί συνεχίζει να χάνει τη ζωή του από την πείνα σύμφωνα με το BBC. Παράλληλα, το παγκόσμιο ΑΕΠ αγγίζει τα 70 τρισ. ευρώ και το ύψος της αξίας των χαρτοφυλακίων των επενδυτών διεθνώς προσεγγίζει τα 800 τρισ. ευρώ.

Στα πλαίσια μιας ενιαίας στρατηγικής παγκόσμιας εμβέλειας η ευαισθητοποίηση των εχόντων θα μπορούσε να συμβάλει στη σωτηρία ανθρώπινων ζωών.

Παράλληλα, γεννιούνται ερωτήματα για το κατά πόσον η εξωτερική βοήθεια που δίνει η ΕΕ και κυμάνθηκε στα 12 δισ. ευρώ για το 2011, κατευθύνεται για τη μείωση του παγκόσμιου δράματος που γεννά η πείνα.

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Piebalgs εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(24 Απριλίου 2012)

Η Επιτροπή διαδραματίζει επί πολλά έτη πρωταρχικό ρόλο στην αντιμετώπιση της πείνας και του υποσιτισμού. Η ΕΕ είναι ο μεγαλύτερος χορηγός βοήθειας στον τομέα της επισιτιστικής ασφάλειας. Μόνο κατά τα δύο τελευταία έτη η Επιτροπή διέθεσε περίπου 4 δισεκατ. USD υλοποιώντας (και υπερβαίνοντας σε ποσό) τη δέσμευση που ανέλαβε το 2009 στην L'Aquila, εξ ονόματος της ΕΕ, να διαθέσει 3,8 δισεκατ. USD για τη στήριξη της γεωργίας και της επισιτιστικής ασφάλειας κατά την περίοδο 2010-2012.

Η γεωργία, η επισιτιστική ασφάλεια και η διατροφή κατέχουν πρωτεύουσα θέση στην ανακοίνωση σχετικά με το ₫πρόγραμμα δράσης για αλλαγή₻ (169) και στον διάλογο με κυβερνήσεις των χωρών εταίρων. Επιπλέον, το 2010 θεσπίστηκαν, σε υπουργικό επίπεδο στην ΕΕ, πλαίσια πολιτικής για την επισιτιστική ασφάλεια (170) και την ανθρωπιστική επισιτιστική βοήθεια (171) προσδίδοντας μεγαλύτερη συνοχή και αντίκτυπο στις προσπάθειες της ΕΕ.

Η Επιτροπή αναγνωρίζει ότι θα πρέπει να ενταθούν οι προσπάθειες για συνεργασία με άλλους φορείς που δραστηριοποιούνται στα θέματα αυτά, ιδίως στον ιδιωτικό τομέα, και να αντληθεί χρηματοδότηση από αυτούς. Θα εξακολουθήσει να προωθεί το συντονισμό με άλλους δωρητές, καθώς και με ιδιωτικούς φορείς, με σκοπό την αύξηση των πόρων και την ενθάρρυνση υπεύθυνων επενδύσεων σε μια βιώσιμη γεωργία και στην επισιτιστική και διατροφική ασφάλεια.

Η Επιτροπή αναλαμβάνει συντονισμένες ενέργειες για την επισιτιστική ασφάλεια σε παγκόσμιο επίπεδο. Συμβάλλει σημαντικά στην παγκόσμια διακυβέρνηση στον τομέα της επισιτιστικής ασφάλειας, στηρίζοντας ιδίως, μεταξύ άλλων πρωτοβουλιών, τη μεταρρύθμιση της Επιτροπής για την Παγκόσμια Επισιτιστική Ασφάλεια και την εφαρμογή του προγράμματος επισιτιστικής ασφάλειας στο πλαίσιο των G8/G20. Η δρομολόγηση παγκόσμιας πρωτοβουλίας για την επίτευξη του επιμέρους στόχου γ του1ου Αναπτυξιακού Στόχου της Χιλιετίας, κορυφώθηκε με την πρωτοβουλία SUN (Scaling Up Nutrition) στο πλαίσιο της οποίας η Επιτροπή άσκησε την επιρροή της για να διασφαλίσει ότι θα ζητηθεί η γνώμη των πληττόμενων χωρών οι οποίες θα έχουν λόγο επί των διεθνών πολιτικών και συστημάτων που προορίζονται για την παροχή βοήθειας προς αυτές.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002167/12

to the Commission

Nikolaos Salavrakos (EFD)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: International strategy to address deaths from starvation

According to the FAO, in 2011 almost one billion people suffered from malnutrition worldwide, while, according to the BBC, starvation continues to claim the life of one child every five seconds. At the same time, global GDP is nearly EUR 70 trillion and the global value of investors’ portfolios is almost EUR 800 trillion.

A global strategy to raise awareness among more well-off people could save lives.

Questions are also being asked about the extent to which the foreign aid granted by the EU — amounting to EUR 12 billion in 2011 — is directed at reducing the global tragedy caused by hunger.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Piebalgs on behalf of the Commission

(24 April 2012)

The Commission has played a leading role in tackling hunger and malnutrition for many years. The EU is the world's largest grant donor to food security. In the past two years alone the Commission has committed nearly USD 4 billion, living up to (and exceeding) the USD 3.8 billion pledge it made, on behalf of the EU, in 2009 in L'Aquila to support agriculture and food security in 2010-2012.

Agriculture, food security and nutrition are placed high on the ‘Agenda for Change’ communication (172) and in dialogue with partner governments. Furthermore, in 2010 policy frameworks on food security (173) and humanitarian food assistance (174) were adopted at EU ministerial level and give greater coherence and impact to EU efforts.

The Commission recognises that efforts need to be stepped up to join forces with, and attract financing from, other players also active in the sector, namely the private sector. It will continue to promote coordination with other donors, as well as with private actors, to scale up resources and encourage responsible investment in sustainable agriculture and food and nutrition security.

The Commission is taking concerted action on food security at the global level. It is a major contributor to global food security governance — especially through its backing for reform of the Committee on World Food Security and for implementation of the Food Security agenda in the G8/G20 context, among other initiatives. The launch of a global initiative to tackle under-nutrition and boost efforts to achieve Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 1, target c, culminated in the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) initiative in which the Commission was influential in ensuring that affected countries are consulted and have a say on international policies and systems intended to help them.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-002168/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 de febrero de 2012)

Asunto: Bloqueo de importaciones de petróleo a la UE

Según las conclusiones de un estudio del Banco Central Europeo (175), un aumento de los precios del petróleo tiene, en la mayoría de los países de la OCDE, un impacto directo en la economía real. Es decir, hay una clara relación entre el aumento de los precios del petróleo y sus efectos negativos sobre el crecimiento real del PIB.

Según un artículo del FT (176), los precios del petróleo han tocado techo este jueves 23 de febrero en los mercados, alcanzando un precio record histórico de 93,63 € el barril.

Según diferentes analistas, dicho aumento de los precios denominados en euros puede crear un choque regional en Europa y generar aún más incertidumbre en las maltrechas economías europeas. Además, dada la fungibilidad del mercado del crudo y la importancia de los productores de la región del Golfo, donde —según Corporación de Reservas Estratégicas (CORES)— productores como Irán abastecieron al Estado español, entre septiembre del año 2010 y octubre del 2011, el 14,7 % del total de sus importaciones de crudo. Dado el gran impacto económico que tienen las importaciones de petróleo en la gran mayoría de economías europeas, ya sea en su balanza de pagos o en el crecimiento real del PIB, y teniendo en cuenta el bloqueo a las importaciones provenientes de Irán aprobado recientemente y que entrará en vigor a mediados de este año 2012,

Si no, ¿cuál es el motivo para no hacer el estudio?

Respuesta del Sr. Oettinger en nombre de la Comisión

(16 de abril de 2012)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002168/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: Block on imports of petroleum to the EU

According to the conclusions of a study by the European Central Bank (177), in most OECD countries an increase in petroleum prices has a direct impact on the real economy. In other words, there is a clear relationship between increased petroleum prices and negative effects on real GDP growth.

According to an article in the Financial Times  (178), petroleum prices hit a ceiling on Thursday, 23 February 2012 in the markets, reaching a historical record price of EUR 93.63 per barrel.

Various analysts believe that the rise in prices denominated in euros may have a regional impact in Europe and cause even more uncertainty in battered European economies. Moreover, account must be taken of the fungibility of the oil market and the importance of producers in the Gulf region, where — according to the Corporation of Strategic Reserves of Oil-based Products (CORES) — between September 2010 and October 2011 producers such as Iran supplied 14.7 % of Spain’s total crude oil imports. Given the huge economic impact of petroleum imports on the great majority of European economies, whether on their balance of payments or on real GDP growth, and taking into account the blocking of imports from Iran that was approved recently and is to enter into force by mid‐2012,

Answer given by Mr Oettinger on behalf of the Commission

(16 April 2012)

in the Strait of Hormuz.

(Dansk udgave)

Forespørgsel til skriftlig besvarelse E-002170/12

til Kommissionen

Jens Rohde (ALDE)

(24. februar 2012)

Om: Kvindekvoter i bestyrelser

Torsdag den 8. marts 2012 vil medlem af Kommissionen med ansvar for retlige anliggender Viviane Reding fremlægge et udkast til et direktiv om kvindekvoter. Udkastet vil efter sigende komme til at indeholde en målsætning, som lyder, at der senest i 2015 skal være 30 % kvinder i europæiske virksomheders bestyrelser, og i 2020 skal det være op til 40 %.

Er Kommissionen enig i, at bestyrelsesposterne i de europæiske virksomheder bør bestrides af personer, som er valgt ud fra de rette erhvervsmæssige kompetencer og kvalifikationer og ikke på baggrund af deres køn?

Kan Kommissionen be‐ eller afkræfte, at ovennævnte forslag til et direktiv om kvindekvoter også kommer til at gælde for mindre virksomheder med kun 5 000 eller færre ansatte?

Svar afgivet på Kommissionens vegne af Viviane Reding

(3. april 2012)

Det ærede medlem henvises til den statusrapport om kvindernes rolle i den økonomiske beslutningstagning i EU, som Kommissionens næstformand med ansvar for retlige anliggender, grundlæggende rettigheder og EU‐borgerskab fremlagde den 5. marts 2012 (179). I rapporten konkluderes det, at selv om kvinderne er kompetente, idet 60 % af alle nyuddannede fra universiteterne er kvinder, sker der kun begrænsede fremskridt med hensyn til at forbedre kønsfordelingen i virksomhedsbestyrelserne.

Som opfølgning på de opgaver, der blev opstillet i Kommissionens strategi for ligestilling mellem mænd og kvinder 2010‐2015 (180), undersøger Kommissionen for tiden politikmulighederne for målrettede foranstaltninger med henblik på at øge kvindernes deltagelse i den økonomiske beslutningstagning på europæisk plan. Sideløbende med offentliggørelsen af statusrapporten har Kommissionen lanceret en offentlig høring, der vil bidrage til vurderingen af virkningerne af eventuelle EU‐foranstaltninger til at rette op på de nuværende forhold. Kommissionen vil efter en fuldstændig konsekvensanalyse træffe afgørelse senere i 2012 om eventuelle foranstaltninger, herunder om foranstaltningernes art og omfang.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002170/12

to the Commission

Jens Rohde (ALDE)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: Quotas for women on management boards

On Thursday 8 March 2012, the Commissioner with responsibility for justice, Viviane Reding, will submit a draft directive on quotas for women. The draft will reportedly contain an objective proposing that women should make up 30 % of European firms’ management boards 2015 at the latest, rising to 40 % by 2020.

Does the Commission agree that positions on management boards in European companies should be occupied by individuals selected on the basis of the relevance of their professional abilities and qualifications and not on the basis of their gender?

Can the Commission confirm or deny that the abovementioned proposal for a directive on quotas for women will also apply to smaller firms with 5 000 or fewer employees?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(3 April 2012)

The Honourable Member is referred to the progress report ‘Women in economic decision-making in the EU’, presented by the Vice-President of the Commission responsible for Justice, Fundamental Rights and Citizenship on 5 March 2012 (181). The report concludes that in spite of the fact that women are qualified — they represent 60 % of new university graduates — the progress in improving the gender balance on company boards continues to be very limited.

Following the priorities set out in its Strategy for Equality between Women and Men 2010-2015 (182), the Commission is now exploring policy options for targeted measures to enhance female participation in economic decision-making at the European level. In parallel to the publication of the progress report, the Commission has launched a public consultation that will contribute to assessing the impact of possible EU measures to redress the current situation. A decision on possible measures, including on their nature and scope, will be taken by the Commission later in 2012, after a full impact assessment.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-002171/12

aan de Commissie

Laurence J. A. J. Stassen (NI)

(24 februari 2012)

Betreft: Handelsoorlog om CO2-vliegtaks dupeert Europese luchtvaartmaatschappijen

Woensdag 22 februari jl. hebben 23 landen, waaronder de Verenigde Staten, Rusland, China, India, Brazilië en Japan maatregelen aangekondigd tegen Europa’s eenzijdige invoering van een CO2-vliegtaks (ETS voor de luchtvaart). De landen, bijeengekomen in Moskou, hebben vergevorderde plannen om hun nationale luchtvaartmaatschappijen bij wet te verbieden zich te onderwerpen aan ETS. Ook wordt er inmiddels openlijk gesproken over tegenmaatregelen waarmee een handelsoorlog tussen de EU en deze landen een feit is. Europese luchtvaartmaatschappijen dreigen in de toekomst landingsrechten en overvliegrechten te worden onthouden. Ook valt in een gezamenlijk verklaring te lezen dat Europese luchtvaartmaatschappijen extra heffingen in rekening kunnen worden gebracht (183). Europa’s obsessie met CO2-reductie heeft het op ramkoers gebracht met alle grote vliegnaties  ter wereld en stelt het lot van Europese luchtvaartmaatschappijen in de waagschaal.

Antwoord van mevrouw Hedegaard namens de Commissie

(28 maart 2012)

De Commissie verwijst het geachte Parlementslid naar haar antwoord op schriftelijke vragen E-8691/2011 van het geachte Parlementslid en E-958/2012 van mevrouw Beňová (184).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002171/12

to the Commission

Laurence J.A.J. Stassen (NI)

(24 February 2012)

Subject: Trade war over CO2 flight tax is harming European airlines

On Wednesday 22 February 2012, 23 countries, including the United States, Russia, China, India, Brazil and Japan, announced measures against Europe’s unilateral introduction of a CO2 flight tax (Emissions Trading Scheme for air travel — ETS). These countries, whose representatives met in Moscow, have advanced plans to forbid their national airlines by law from subjecting themselves to ETS. In the meantime, they are also openly discussing countermeasures, which shows that a trade war between the EU and these countries has begun. In the future, European airlines may be denied landing rights and flyover rights. A joint declaration also says that additional charges can be imposed on European airlines (185). Europe’s obsession with CO2 reduction has placed it on a collision course with all the large aviation nations of the world, putting the fortunes of European airlines in jeopardy.

Answer given by Ms Hedegaard on behalf of the Commission

(28 March 2012)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answers to written questions E‐8691/2011 by the Honourable Member and E‐958/2012 by Mrs Beňová (186).

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002172/12

alla Commissione

Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: CIP 6 e incentivi all'incenerimento dei rifiuti in Italia: aiuti di Stato illegittimi (3)

Nella sua risposta alla mia interrogazione E-006489/2011 la Commissione segnalava che la chiusura delle procedure di infrazione 2004/5061 e 2004/4336 è motivata dal fatto che le autorità italiane hanno chiarito che l'incenerimento dei rifiuti non biodegradabili è ammesso a beneficiare del regime di sostegno riservato alle fonti energetiche rinnovabili, senza essere considerato rinnovabile. La Commissione stessa, d'altra parte, nella corrispondenza inviata all'Italia (lettere della DG TREN del 12.1.2007 — (2006)227587 e del 24.1.2007 — (2006)228547) segnalava alle autorità italiane che il regime di aiuti ai rifiuti non biodegradabili deve rispettare le norme comunitarie in materia di aiuti di Stato. D'altra parte, nella risposta all'interrogazione E-006489/2011 la Commissione affermava di non aver ricevuto alcuna notifica dall'Italia riguardo un progetto di aiuti di Stato per l'incenerimento dei rifiuti non biodegradabili. La situazione è estremamente grave, poiché la Commissione, pur in assenza di notifica, è a conoscenza almeno dal 2004 dei contributi statali che dal 1992 l'Italia ha garantito e continua a garantire agli inceneritori. Pertanto può la Commissione europea:

Risposta data da Joaquín Almunia a nome della Commissione

(17 aprile 2012)

La Commissione attualmente verifica la conformità del regime italiano esistente di contributi statali alla produzione di energia dall'incenerimento di rifiuti con la normativa in materia di aiuti di Stato. Per quanto riguarda la domanda sui contributi ricevuti dagli impianti di incenerimento in Italia dal 1992, la Commissione non ha ancora accertato se siano stati concessi aiuti di Stato.

In questa fase, la Commissione non è in grado di fornire ulteriori dettagli sulla sua valutazione delle misure di cui sopra, in quanto il processo è ancora in corso.

La Commissione non ha la facoltà di chiedere alle autorità italiane di pubblicare il resoconto di tutti gli impianti di incenerimento che hanno usufruito di contributi statali.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002172/12

to the Commission

Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Decision CIP6 and incineration of waste in Italy: unlawful state aid (3)

In its response to my Question E‐006489/2011, the Commission indicated that the closure of infringement proceedings 2004/5061 and 2004/4336 was due to the fact that the Italian authorities had made it clear that the incineration of non‐biodegradable waste was eligible to benefit from the support regime for renewable energy sources, without being considered renewable. The Commission itself, however, in its correspondence with Italy (letters from DG TREN of 12 January 2007 — (2006)227587 — and of 24 January 2007 — (2006)228547), had informed the Italian authorities that the aid scheme for non‐biodegradable waste had to comply with the EU regulations on state aid. However, in its response to Question E‐006489/2011, the Commission confirmed that it had not received any notification from Italy on a state aid project concerning the incineration of non‐biodegradable waste. The situation is extremely serious, as the Commission, even without having received notification, has been aware — since 2004 at least — of the state aid that Italy has been giving to incinerators since 1992. Can the Commission therefore:

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(17 April 2012)

The Commission is in the process of analysing the compliance of the existing Italian regime of incentives for energy production from waste incineration with the state aid rules. Concerning the question on support received by incineration plants in Italy since 1992, the Commission has not yet established either whether state aid has been granted.

At this stage, the Commission cannot provide further details on its assessment of the above measures, as the process is still ongoing.

The Commission does not have the power to request the Italian authorities to publish the record of all the incineration plants which have received state aid.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002173/12

alla Commissione

Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Attuazione della direttiva sui rifiuti di apparecchiature elettriche ed elettroniche (RAEE) in Italia e inchieste di Greenpeace (3)

Nella risposta all’interrogazione P-006462/2011, la Commissione europea afferma di aver aperto la procedura di infrazione nei confronti dell'Italia con riferimento alla normativa RAEE e che ₫i risultati delle indagini riferite dall'onorevole parlamentare sollevano dubbi circa l'effettiva attuazione della direttiva in Italia₻.

La Commissione si riprometteva nell'agosto 2011 di ₫decidere le ulteriori iniziative per garantire che la Repubblica Italiana si adegui alla direttiva RAEE₻. In virtù di tale affermazione e del fatto che, sulla base dei negoziati attualmente in corso per la revisione della direttiva RAEE gli Stati membri dovranno verosimilmente prepararsi ad un approccio sempre più ambizioso con riferimento alla riduzione, al riutilizzo, al recupero e allo smaltimento dei rifiuti di apparecchiature elettriche ed elettroniche, può la Commissione europea far sapere qual è lo stato di avanzamento della procedura di infrazione 2009/2264?

Può essa far sapere, inoltre, se durante questi sei mesi l'Italia ha fornito ulteriori informazioni o preso impegni (ed eventualmente con che tempistiche) per uniformarsi tempestivamente alla direttiva RAEE?

Risposta data da Janez Potočnik a nome della Commissione

(3 maggio 2012)

Il 25 novembre 2011 la Commissione ha inviato alla Repubblica italiana una lettera di costituzione in mora complementare nell'ambito del procedimento di infrazione 2009/2264.

La Repubblica italiana ha risposto alla lettera complementare in questione nel gennaio e nel marzo 2012. La Commissione sta esaminando queste risposte. In funzione dell'esito di questa valutazione, la Commissione deciderà quali ulteriori misure adottare.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002173/12

to the Commission

Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Implementation of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive in Italy and Greenpeace surveys (3)

In its answer to Question P‐006462/2001, the Commission confirmed that it has launched an infringement procedure against Italy with reference to the WEEE Directive and that ‘the results of the surveys mentioned by the Honourable Member’ raised ‘doubts on the effective implementation of the directive in Italy’.

In August 2011, the Commission was due to ‘decide which further steps should be taken to ensure that the Italian Republic complies with the WEEE Directive’. Pursuant to this and to the fact that, based on the negotiations currently underway on the review of the WEEE Directive, Member States should probably prepare for an increasingly ambitious approach to the reduction, re-use, recovery and disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment, can the Commission confirm what progress has been made on infringement procedure No 2009/2264?

Can it also confirm whether, during the last six months, Italy has provided further information or made any commitments (and if so, under what time frames) in order to comply promptly with the WEEE Directive?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(3 May 2012)

On 25 November 2011 the Commission sent to the Italian Republic a complementary letter of formal notice in the framework of infringement procedure 2009/2264.

The Italian Republic has replied to the complementary letter of formal notice in January and March 2012. These replies are under assessment. Based on the outcome of the assessment, the Commission will decide which further steps need to be taken.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002174/12

alla Commissione

Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Rigassificatori in Italia e aiuti di Stato illegittimi

Nella risposta all'interrogazione E-008555/2011 la Commissione afferma che ₫la misura in questione sembrava comportare solo un rischio limitato di falsare la concorrenza₻ e pertanto ₫i servizi della Commissione hanno deciso di non concedere un trattamento prioritario alla denuncia in oggetto₻. La Commissione fa riferimento al suo ₫codice delle migliori pratiche applicabili nei procedimenti di controllo agli aiuti di Stato₻. Tale codice è stato adottato dalla Commissione per ₫migliorare l'efficacia, la trasparenza, la credibilità e la prevedibilità del sistema UE degli aiuti di Stato₻. Proprio in virtù di questi principi si chiede alla Commissione europea di rispondere puntualmente alle seguenti domande, alcune già poste nella precedente interrogazione E-008555/2011 e alle quali non ha dato una risposta:

Con riferimento alla nota della DG Concorrenza del 17.6.2011 (già citata nell’interrogazione E-008555/2011):

Risposta di Joaquín Almunia a nome della Commissione

(14 giugno 2012)

La Commissione nota che non è stata adottata alcuna decisione formale in merito al regime normativo applicabile ai terminali di rigassificazione in Italia e che, a questo stadio, non è possibile escludere che la misura in questione costituisca un aiuto.

La Commissione conferma che le autorità italiane non hanno notificato la misura per la valutazione della compatibilità con le norme in materia di aiuti di Stato. A tal proposito, nella nota del 17 giugno 2011 al denunciante, la Commissione ha considerato il livello di garanzia di reddito previsto dalla misura in questione quale criterio per la potenziale compatibilità degli aiuti e non relativamente alla loro eventuale illegalità, come sembra avere inteso l'onorevole parlamentare.

La Commissione nota inoltre che i criteri per l'applicazione della garanzia di reddito (fattore di garanzia) sono riportati negli articoli da 15 a 17 della versione consolidata del regime di regolamentazione nazionale (Delibera ARG/gas 92/08 del 7 luglio 2008).

La Commissione vorrebbe inoltre informare l'onorevole parlamentare che, conformemente a questi criteri, la garanzia di reddito non sarà applicata al terminal GNL di Porto Empedocle, a cui la precedente interrogazione (187) si riferisce, poiché questo terminal ha recentemente ottenuto un'esenzione (188) dalle norme del mercato interno sull'accesso dei terzi e dalle tariffe per la quota eccedente il 71,5 % della sua capacità.

Tuttavia, in seguito alle affermazioni dell'onorevole parlamentare circa l'esistenza di aiuti illegali, la Commissione ha chiesto all'Italia di fornire informazioni che le permetteranno di esprimersi sull'esistenza degli aiuti e, qualora questi aiuti esistano, sulla loro compatibilità.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002174/12

to the Commission

Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Regasification plants in Italy and unlawful state aid

In its response to Question E‐008555/2011, the Commission stated that ‘the measure appeared to have only a limited potential to distort competition’ and therefore ‘the Commission’s services did not decide to grant priority treatment to the complaint’. The Commission made reference to its ‘Best Practices Code on the conduct of state aid control proceedings’. This code was adopted by the Commission to ‘improve the effectiveness, transparency, credibility and predictability of the state aid regime’. It is precisely because of these principles that the Commission is asked to respond promptly to the following questions, some of which have already been asked in the previous question, No E‐008555/2011, and to which it has not provided an answer:

With reference to the DG Competition note of 17 June 2011 (already mentioned in Question E‐008555/2011):

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(14 June 2012)

The Commission notes that no formal decision has been adopted concerning the regulatory regime applicable to regasification terminals in Italy and that at this stage it cannot be excluded that this measure constitutes aid.

The Commission confirms that the Italian authorities did not notify the measure for the assessment of compatibility with state aid rules. In this respect, in the note of 17 June 2011 to the complainant, the Commission considered the level of the income guarantee provided by the measure at hand as a criteria for the potential compatibility of the aid, and not with regard to its possible unlawfulness as the Honourable Member seems to have understood.

The Commission also notes that the criteria for the application of the income guarantee (fattore di garanzia) are laid down in Articles 15 to 17 of the consolidated version of the national regulatory regime (Delibera ARG/gas 92/08 of 7 July 2008).

The Commission would further like to inform the Honourable Member that, pursuant to these criteria, the income guarantee will not apply to the LNG Terminal in Porto Empedocle, to which her previous questions (189) refer, as it has recently been grantedan exemption (190) from the internal market rules on third party access and from tariffs for the share exceeding 71.5 % of its capacity.

However, following the allegations of the existence of illegal aid brought forward by the Honourable Member, the Commission has requested Italy to submit information that will enable the Commission to take a view on the existence of aid and, if there is aid, on its compatibility.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-002175/12

an den Rat

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(27. Februar 2012)

Betrifft: Verbot von Tonaufnahmen vor Ratstagungen

Medienberichten zufolge wurde ein Verbot von Tonaufnahmen der Minister vor EU-Ratstagungen verhängt. Anlassfall war ein Treffen der EU-Finanzminister am 9. Februar 2012, bei welchem ein Kamerateam ein Gespräch zwischen dem deutschen Finanzminister Schäuble und dem Portugiesen Vitor Gaspar aufgenommen hatte. Thema war ein neues Hilfsprogramm für Lissabon. Dies war den beiden Ministern offenbar so unangenehm, dass am 20. Februar 2012 Tonaufnahmen im Vorfeld der Ministerratstagungen verboten wurden. Nun protestiert der Österreichische Journalisten Club (ÖJC) gegen diese Einschränkung der freien Berichterstattung in der EU.

Daraus resultieren folgende Fragen:

Antwort

(30. April 2012)

In den Regeln für die Arbeit der Pressevertreter im Rat (191), die mit dem Internationalen Presseverband (IPA/API) vereinbart worden sind, heißt es (unter Nummer 6): „ Für Foto-/Videoaufnahmen im Sitzungssaal (Tischrunde) gelten folgende Verhaltensregeln: (…) Die Kameramikrofone sind auf Hintergrundgeräusch einzustellen (nicht auf Gesprächsaufnahme); falls trotz dieser Einstellung dennoch Einzelgespräche erfasst werden, dürfen diese Aufzeichnungen keinesfalls verwendet werden “ .

An diesen Regeln hat sich nichts geändert. Nach den jüngsten Verstößen hat das Generalsekretariat des Rates die Journalisten mit Unterstützung der IPA/API an die geltenden Regeln erinnert.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002175/12

to the Council

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Ban on audio recordings prior to Council meetings

According to reports in the media, a ban has been placed on audio recordings of ministers prior to EU Council meetings. The reason for this was a meeting of the EU Finance Ministers on 9 February 2012, when a camera team recorded a conversation between German Finance Minister, Mr Schäuble, and his Portuguese counterpart, Mr Gaspar. The topic of the conversation was a new aid programme for Lisbon. This was obviously such an embarrassment for the two ministers that audio recordings prior to the meetings of the Council of Ministers were banned on 20 February 2012. The Austrian Journalists Club (ÖJC) is now protesting against this restriction on free reporting in the EU.

The following questions now arise:

Reply

(30 April 2012)

The rules applicable to press activities in the Council (192), which have been agreed with the International Press Association (IPA/API), indicate (in point 6), that ‘press representatives taking part in full table rounds (photo/video) must: (…) make sure that camera microphones are set to record background noises (not conversations) and, if despite this setting conversations are nonetheless recorded, such recordings must not be used’.

These rules have not changed. Following recent instances of non-adherence to this rule, the General Secretariat of the Council (GSC) reminded journalists of the applicable rules, with the assistance of IPA/API.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-002176/12

an die Kommission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(27. Februar 2012)

Betrifft: Entwicklungshilfe der Europäischen Union — allgemeine Daten

Im Rahmen der Vergabe von Entwicklungshilfe befasst sich die Entwicklungspolitik der EU mit den unterschiedlichsten Maßnahmen und Projekten in Drittstaaten, um dort die politische, wirtschaftliche und soziale Situation zu verbessern.

Der Abgeordnete bittet in diesem Zusammenhang um Beantwortung folgender Fragen:

Antwort von Herrn Piebalgs im Namen der Kommission

(10. Mai 2012)

Als Antwort auf die Frage des Herrn Abgeordneten zur Entwicklungshilfe der Europäischen Union verweist die Kommission auf die entsprechenden Statistiken zu den Gesamtausgaben, den geografischen und den länderspezifischen Mittelzuweisungen, die jeweils im Jahresbericht veröffentlicht werden. Auf folgender Website können die Jahresberichte der Kommission eingesehen werden: http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/multimedia/publications/index_en.htm.

In Bezug auf die Frage des Herrn Abgeordneten zum durchschnittlichen Pro-Kopf-Einkommen in den Ländern, die von der Europäischen Union Entwicklungshilfe erhalten, teilt die Kommission mit, dass sie auf die Statistiken der Organisation für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (OECD) zurückgreift, wenn es sich um Mitgliedstaaten der OECD handelt (http://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/statistics). Handelt es sich um Länder, die nicht Mitglied der OECD sind, bezieht sie sich auf die offiziellen Quellen der Weltbank (http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.PCAP.CD). Darüber hinaus steht eine gemeinsame Website von OECD, Weltbank und Asiatischer Entwicklungsbank (http://www.aidflows.org) zur Verfügung, auf der allgemeine statistische Angaben zum Pro‐Kopf‐Einkommen weltweit veröffentlicht werden.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002176/12

to the Commission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Development aid from the European Union — general data

In the context of the granting of development aid, EU development policy considers a wide variety of measures and projects in third countries, with the aim of improving the political, economic and social situation in these countries.

Can the Commission answer the following questions:

Answer given by Mr Piebalgs on behalf of the Commission

(10 May 2012)

With reference to the Honourable Member's inquiry about the development assistance of the European Union, the Commission would like to inform that relevant statistical data on the overall spending, geographical and country specific allocations are reflected in the Annual report published yearly. Please visit following website to find Commission's Annual reports: http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/multimedia/publications/index_en.htm

As regards the Honourable Member's enquiry about average income per capita in the countries the European Union provided development assistance, the Commission uses statistical data provided by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) (please visit http://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/statistics) for the OECD members and World Bank official sources for non-OECD members (please visit http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.PCAP.CD). In addition a joint website cosponsored by OECD, World Bank and Asia Development Bank — http://www.aidflows.org — could also be used for the overall statistical data related to the income per capita all over the world.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002179/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — India: profanato cimitero cristiano

Un antico cimitero cristiano è stato profanato e devastato a Sabarmati, nei pressi di Ahmedabad, capitale dello stato di Gujarat (India occidentale). Ne ha dato notizia l'agenzia Fides la scorsa settimana.

Secondo i cristiani dell'All India Christian Council, vi sono fondati sospetti che l'attacco sia opera di gruppi radicali indù, molto attivi nello stato. In merito a questo episodio, l'Aicc ha anche chiesto le dimissioni immediate del Primo ministro del Gujarat, Narendra Modi, noto leader militante nel Baratiya Janata Party (BJP) e molto vicino a gruppi estremisti indù.

Secondo alcuni testimoni oculari, i camion e i bulldozer hanno agito ₫con il pretesto di fare delle pulizie₻. Il cimitero ecumenico di Sabarmati risale al periodo britannico. L'area era stata concessa ai fedeli di sette confessioni cristiane presenti ad Ahmedabad (cattolici, metodisti, e alcuni gruppi pentecostali) prima del 1947. I testimoni parlano di ₫lapidi e croci distrutte e ammucchiate, una parte del campo devastata, un'altra parte del cimitero spianata da bulldozer per diventare un parcheggio₻.

Si prega pertanto il Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante di rispondere ai seguenti quesiti:

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002180/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — India: fanatici indù assaltano campus gestito dai gesuiti

Il 30 gennaio scorso l'Istituto universitario San Giuseppe di Anekal, nei pressi di Bangalore, ha subito un'aggressione da parte di un centinaio di estremisti indù.

Il preside dell'istituto gestito dai Gesuiti ha raccontato a Fides di aver vissuto ore di grande paura, soprattutto per la complicità delle istituzioni civili e delle forze di sicurezza con i violenti, di cui facevano parte anche alcuni consiglieri comunali della città. Inoltre la polizia ha permesso che l'occupazione del campus si protraesse per due ore. Il capo dell'istituto ha acconsentito a farsi arrestare, come chiesto dai facinorosi, senza alcun capo di accusa, pur di placare gli animi. Gli agenti di polizia intervenuti lo avrebbero però costretto a camminare fino alla locale stazione di polizia, mettendone a rischio l'incolumità. Alcuni studenti intervenuti per proteggere il preside, che è stato rilasciato solo nella tarda serata, sono stati picchiati e alcuni hanno anche riportato ferite.

Responsabili dell'irruzione nel campus universitario sono giovani appartenenti ai gruppi Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal, Rashtra Sakthi Sene, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, movimenti estremisti e di ispirazione xenofoba.

Si prega pertanto il Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante di rispondere ai seguenti quesiti:

Risposta congiunta di Catherine Ashton a nome della Commissione

(8 giugno 2012)

L'alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente Catherine Ashton è a conoscenza degli eventi cui fa riferimento l'onorevole parlamentare. Il Servizio europeo per l'azione esterna (SEAE) segue attentamente, insieme con la delegazione dell’UE a New Delhi, gli atti di intolleranza religiosa e di discriminazione contro le minoranze in India. La questione è stata sollevata a più riprese con le autorità indiane, anche al livello più alto possibile, e se ne discute regolarmente nell'ambito del dialogo annuale sui diritti umani tra UE e India.

Inoltre, la delegazione dell'UE e le ambasciate degli Stati membri a New Delhi tengono contatti periodici e continui con interlocutori locali e con le ONG europee in diversi stati dell'India per monitorare la situazione delle minoranze, compresa quella dei cristiani. L’UE segue, inoltre, attentamente gli sviluppi per quanto riguarda la sensibilizzazione ai diritti umani, la riforma delle forze di polizia e la legislazione in cui rientra, tra l’altro, il disegno di legge, non ancora adottato, relativo alla prevenzione della violenza collettiva e ne discute con le autorità locali.

Si tratta di un problema complesso che comprende aspetti legati alla libertà di culto, ma anche alla concorrenza economica, come hanno dimostrato gli episodi di violenza collettiva avvenuti nel 2008 in Orissa.

É opportuno ricordare che la preparazione delle relazioni per il prossimo esame periodico universale del 2012 ha rappresentato un’opportunità per fare il punto della situazione per quanto riguarda la libertà di fede e di culto che sarà ampiamente discussa in preparazione del riesame periodico universale dell'India nel giugno di quest’anno.

Va anche notato, a questo proposito, che nel 2008 l’India ha invitato il Relatore speciale delle Nazioni Unite sulla libertà di religione o di credo. Inoltre, va debitamente riconosciuto il ruolo svolto dalla Commissione nazionale per le minoranze che segue attentamente tali questioni con missioni d'indagine e con cui la delegazione dell’UE è regolarmente in contatto.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002179/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — India: Christian cemetery desecrated

It was reported last week by the Fides news agency that an ancient Christian cemetery had been desecrated in Sabarmati, near Ahmadabad, the state capital of Gujarat (Western India).

According to Christians from the All India Christian Council (AICC), there are reasonable grounds to suspect that the attack was orchestrated by radical Hindu groups, who are very active in the state. Given the serious nature of the incident, the AICC has called for the immediate resignation of the Prime Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, a well-known militant leader in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who has close ties to Hindu extremist groups.

Several eyewitnesses have said that the trucks and bulldozers acted ‘under the pretext of cleaning’. The ecumenical cemetery in Sabarmati dates back to the period of British rule. The area had been given to the followers of seven Christian denominations (Catholics, Methodists and a number of Pentecostal groups) who had been present in Ahmadabad prior to 1947. Witnesses spoke of ‘crosses and gravestones destroyed and piled up, one side of the plot was devastated whilst the other side was flattened by bulldozers, to be turned into a car park’.

In light of this, could the Vice-President/High Representative respond to the following questions:

Question for written answer E-002180/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — India: Hindu fanatics attack a Jesuit-run campus

On 30 January 2012, St Joseph’s PU College in Anekal, near Bangalore, was attacked by around 100 Hindu extremists.

The principal of the Jesuit-run college told the Fides news agency that he had endured hours of terror, especially as civil institutions and the security forces were complicit with the rioters, amongst whom were several town councillors. Furthermore, the police had allowed the occupation of the campus to go on for two hours. Despite no charge being laid against him, the college’s principal had allowed himself to be arrested, simply to placate the rioters who were demanding his arrest. The policemen involved forced him to walk to the local police station, compromising his safety. Several students who intervened to protect the principal, who was only released in the late evening, were beaten and a number of them also sustained injuries.

The perpetrators of the attack on the college campus were youths belonging to the groups Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal, Rashtra Sakthi Sene and Karnataka Rakshana Vedike; extremist organisations that are driven by xenophobia.

In light of this, could the Vice-President/High Representative respond to the following questions:

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

(8 June 2012)

The HR/VP is aware of the events referred to in the written question. The European External Action Service (EEAS), together with the EU Delegation in Delhi, closely monitors acts of religious intolerance and discrimination against minorities in India. Concerns in this regard have been raised repeatedly with the Indian authorities, including at the highest possible level, and the topic is a standard feature of the annual EU‐India Human Rights Dialogue.

The EU Delegation and EU Member State embassies in Delhi are furthermore in regular contact with local interlocutors and with European NGOs in a number of Indian states in order to monitor the situation of minorities in India, including the situation of Christians. The EU is also closely following developments with respect to rights awareness, police reform, and legislation such as the still-awaited Communal Violence Prevention Bill, and discusses these matters with the authorities.

The issue is complex, often including facets related to freedom of religion as well as to economic competition, as was demonstrated by the 2008 Orissa communal violence.

It should be noted that the preparation of reports for the upcoming 2012 Universal Periodic Review (UPR) has been the opportunity to take stock of the situation regarding Freedom of Religion or Belief and will be broadly discussed in the run-up to India’s UPR in June this year.

It that regard, it should also be noted that India invited the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief in 2008. Moreover, the role of the National Commission for Minorities, which follows up on these issues through fact finding missions and with which the EU Delegation is in regular contact, should be acknowledged.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002181/12

alla Commissione

Niccolò Rinaldi (ALDE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Protezione e benessere degli animali

Nell'ultimo mese la stampa locale di Grosseto ha portato alla luce diversi casi di maltrattamenti di cani, uno in particolare legato alle condizioni di un canile-lager in località Roccatederighi.

In Italia sono purtroppo ancora incredibilmente frequenti episodi di questo genere; in Romania si è a conoscenza dell'abominevole prassi dello sterminio utilizzato contro il fenomeno del randagismo, così come lo scandaloso funzionamento di molte perreras spagnole.

Alla luce di ciò:

Risposta data da John Dalli a nome della Commissione

(29 marzo 2012)

La Commissione accetta che gli Stati membri adottino approcci diversi in relazione al benessere dei cani, in particolare dei cani randagi. Tuttavia, le differenze d'approccio degli Stati membri non giustificano necessariamente un intervento dell'UE.

In particolare, la Commissione rinvia l'onorevole deputato alla propria risposta all'interrogazione scritta E-006543/2011 (193) concernente la competenza dell'Unione in tema di cani randagi.

La Commissione ha adottato una strategia UE per la protezione e il benessere degli animali 2012-2015 (194). In tale contesto la Commissione eseguirà nel 2014 uno studio sul benessere dei cani e dei gatti oggetto di pratiche commerciali. Sulla base dei risultati dello studio la Commissione esaminerà se siano necessari ulteriori interventi tenendo debitamente conto dei principi di sussidiarietà e proporzionalità.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002181/12

to the Commission

Niccolò Rinaldi (ALDE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Animal welfare and protection

In the last month, the local press in Grosseto has highlighted various cases of cruelty to dogs, with one particular story concerning conditions in a canile lager dog pound in the village of Roccatederighi.

Unfortunately, in Italy, occurrences of this type are still remarkably frequent, whilst in Romania it is well-known that the shocking practice of extermination is used to control the population of strays, and in Spain horrifying methods are used in many of its perreras dog pounds.

In light of this:

Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission

(29 March 2012)

The Commission accepts that Member States may take different approaches in relation to the welfare of dogs in particular for stray dogs. However, differences in Member States' approaches do not necessarily justify EU intervention.

In particular the Commission would like to refer the Honourable Member to its reply to Written Question E‐006543/2011 (195) regarding the competence of the Union on stray dogs.

The Commission adopted an EU strategy for the protection and welfare of animals 2012-2015 (196). In this framework the Commission will perform in 2014 a study on the welfare of dogs and cats involved in commercial practices. Based on the findings of the study, the Commission will consider whether further actions are necessary with due regard to the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-002182/12

aan de Commissie

Ivo Belet (PPE)

(27 februari 2012)

Betreft: Steun van de EIB voor KMO's

In de Verklaring van de leden van de Europese Raad van 30 januari wordt de nadruk gelegd op maatregelen die economische groei en jobcreatie stimuleren. Er wordt daarbij verwezen naar de noodzaak om de steun van de Europese Investeringsbank (EIB) voor kleine en middelgrote ondernemingen (KMO’s) te versterken. De Commissie wordt verzocht passende aanbevelingen te doen, met name aangaande de mogelijkheid „om de EU-begroting als hefboom van de financieringscapaciteit van de EIB-groep te laten fungeren”.

Volgens haar maatschappelijk beleidsplan voorziet de EIB-groep in 2012 7,8 miljard euro aan leningen aan KMO’s uit de EU en de kandidaat-lidstaten, weliswaar het laagste volume sinds de uitbreiding van het EIB-stelsel voor leningen aan KMO’s in 2008. Het Europees Investeringsfonds (EIF) heeft de afgelopen jaren via haar verschillende activiteiten het volume van vrijgemaakt kapitaal voor KMO's kunnen verhogen en wil ook in 2012 meer dan 12 miljard euro aan nieuw kapitaal genereren.

Tussen de verschillende EU-lidstaten zijn er grote relatieve verschillen wat het volume van de afgesloten financieringscontracten betreft. Ondanks de ingevoerde administratieve vereenvoudigingen, blijft de procedurele last voor vele KMO’s erg hoog liggen. In een aantal Europese lidstaten zijn de administratieve vereisten van intermediaire financiële instellingen om toegang tot kredieten te verkrijgen immers bijzonder uitgebreid.

Is de Europese Commissie van plan om, in het kielzog van een gecoördineerd Europees economisch beleid, maatregelen te nemen die de coherentie en efficiëntie van de verschillende nationale formele financieringssystemen voor KMO’s in de hand werken, ten einde de toegang voor KMO's te versoepelen?

Welke andere instrumenten kan en wil de Europese Commissie aanwenden om de kredietverleningprocedures van de EIB en het EIF aan KMO’s te vereenvoudigen?

Welke mogelijkheden ziet de Europese Commissie om de EU-begroting ten dienste van de financieringscapaciteit van de EIB-groep in te zetten?

Antwoord van de heer Tajani namens de Commissie

(24 april 2012)

Nationale financieringsmaatregelen zijn de verantwoordelijkheid van de lidstaten, maar financiële instrumenten van de Europese Unie (EU) worden ontwikkeld om de toegevoegde waarde voor de EU en de complementariteit met nationale regelingen te maximaliseren. Voor de volgende programmeringsperiode (2014-2020) stelt de Commissie voor om via de nieuwe programma's COSME (197) en Horizon 2020 (198), die in de plaats komen van het kaderprogramma voor concurrentievermogen en innovatie en van de risicodelende financieringsfaciliteit, de beschikbare bedragen van de financiële instrumenten voor vreemd en eigen vermogen van kmo's te verhogen. De Commissie stelt bovendien voor gemeenschappelijke financiële instrumenten te ontwikkelen die EU-middelen en structuurfondsen kunnen combineren voor de verwezenlijking van de doelstellingen van het Europa 2020-beleid. Ten slotte stelt de Commissie voor om de uitvoering van de financiële instrumenten van de EU te harmoniseren en te vereenvoudigen (199)

Tijdens het „SME Finance Forum” heeft de Commissie de procedurele vereisten van de EIB-groep (200) besproken om de eventuele buitensporige administratieve lasten voor de kmo's aan te pakken. Aan intermediaire banken worden echter bepaalde eisen gesteld om transparante en volledige verslaglegging en goed financieel beheer te waarborgen.

De EIB-groep beschikt over uitgebreide ervaring in de financiering van kmo's via intermediaire banken in de lidstaten (201) en in het beheer van EU-programma's die garanties en durfkapitaal aan kmo's verstrekken. Naar aanleiding van de conclusies van de informele Europese Raad van 30 januari 2012 onderzoekt de Commissie, samen met de EIB en de Raad, hoe de EIB de groei nog meer en nog beter kan ondersteunen en zal zij hierover bij de Europese Raad in juni 2012 verslag uitbrengen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002182/12

to the Commission

Ivo Belet (PPE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: EIB support for SMEs

The Statement of the Members of the European Council dated 30 January 2012 focuses on measures to stimulate economic growth and job creation. The Statement refers to the need to strengthen the European Investment Bank (EIB)’s support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Commission is requested to make appropriate recommendations, in particular regarding the possibility ‘for the EU budget to leverage EIB group financing capacity’.

In line with its corporate operational plan, the EIB Group plans to lend EUR 7.8 billion to SMEs from the EU and candidate Member States in 2012, admittedly the lowest volume since the EIB expanded its SME lending scheme in 2008. Over the past years, the European Investment Fund (EIF) has been able to increase, through its various activities, the volume of available capital for SMEs and also wants to generate more than EUR 12 billion of new capital in 2012.

There are large relative differences between the various EU Member States concerning the volume of financing contracts concluded. Despite the administrative simplifications implemented, the procedural burden for many SMEs remains very heavy. In a number of European Member States, the administrative requirements of intermediary financial institutions in order to obtain access to loans are exceptionally elaborate.

Does the European Commission intend, in the wake of a coordinated European economic policy, to take measures aimed at making various national formal funding systems for SMEs more coherent and efficient in order to facilitate access for SMEs?

Which other instruments is the European Commission able and willing to employ in order to simplify the EIB and the EIF’s credit provision procedures for SMEs?

Which possibilities does the European Commission see for applying the EU budget to boost the EIB Group’s financing capacity?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(24 April 2012)

National funding measures are the responsibility of Member States but European Union (EU) financial instruments are being designed with a view to maximising EU added value and complementarity with national schemes. In fact, for the next programming period (2014-2020) the Commission is proposing to increase the amounts available for SME debt and equity financial instruments in the successors of the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme and the Risk Sharing Finance Facility — namely under COSME (202) and Horizon 2020 (203). Moreover, the Commission proposes to develop joint financial instruments which could combine EU and structural funds in the pursuit of Europe 2020 policy objectives. Finally, the Commission is proposing to harmonise and simplify the implementation of EU financial instruments (204).

The Commission has discussed the procedural requirements of the EIB Group (205) in the framework of the SME finance Forum in order to address possible excessive administrative burden for SMEs. However, certain requirements are imposed on intermediary banks in order to ensure transparent and comprehensive reporting and sound financial management.

The EIB Group has significant experience in providing SME financing through intermediary banks in Member States (206) and in managing EU programmes providing guarantees and venture capital to SMEs. Following the informal European Council conclusions of 30 January 2012, the Commission, in cooperation with the EIB and the Council, is examining further options to enhance EIB's action to support growth and will report back to the European Council in June 2012.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002183/12

to the Commission

William (The Earl of) Dartmouth (EFD)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Availability of EU trade statistics

Could the Commission provide details (statistics are preferred) of the EU’s share of world trade in 1975 and how that share has changed since that date? Could the Commission also explain why there is only EU trade data available from 1999 onward in the Eurostat database, when it is important to study the development of the EU in world trade so that all Member States may be successful in the future?

Answer given by Mr Šemeta on behalf of the Commission

(20 April 2012)

EU’s shares of world trade since 1975 based on statistical data are provided in the annex sent directly to the Honourable Member and to Parliament's Secretariat.

Official statistics on international trade in goods are published by the Commission (Eurostat). The Comext reference database provides users with harmonised data for the EU since 1988. These data (totals and at product level) can be consulted at the following link: http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/newxtweb/

There are two factors that restrain the availability of data.

Firstly, since the EU composition is evolutive, the content of the database follows the same trend and, as a rule, data of new Member States are collected and published from the moment of their membership. However, for the 10 new Member States that joined the EU in 2004, some ‘older’ national data were transformed to match the EU requirements and integrated into the Comext database. Thus, the data available for these countries date back to 1999.

Secondly, the publication of harmonised data at product level depends on the goods' classification used. Presently published data at product level are the data collected by Member States since the introduction of the Combined Nomenclature (207) in 1988. For earlier periods, data at total levels are available. Transformation of countries' data before their EU membership is often not possible because of the often wide differences in the classifications used.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002184/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Crollo al tempio di Giove

Il tempio di Giove a Pompei perde pezzi. Continua l'emergenza archeologica iniziata con il crollo della Casa dei gladiatori. Alcuni frammenti di intonaco provenienti da un muro non affrescato di colore grigio-bianco, sono caduti nell'antico luogo di culto pagano, un gioiello dell'archeologia. I pezzi sono stati già recuperati.

Il distacco — ha reso noto la Soprintendenza di Pompei — riguarda un pezzo di intonaco grezzo di circa un metro ed è avvenuto ₫dal paramento esterno della parete orientale, della cella del tempio di Giove₻, che si trova nel Foro. Il tempio, situato nella parte settentrionale del Foro, risale al 250 a. C. Nel 79 d. C., quando ci fu l’eruzione che distrusse la città, il tempio era in fase di ristrutturazione resasi necessaria dopo il terremoto del 62 d.C. Il sacrario è posto su un alto podio, decorato da sei colonne di ordine corinzio.

Alla luce dei fatti sopraesposti, può la Commissione far sapere:

Risposta data da Johannes Hahn a nome della Commissione

(19 aprile 2012)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002184/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Collapse in the Temple of Jupiter

The Temple of Jupiter in Pompeii is crumbling. And so the archaeological crisis that began with the collapse of the House of the Gladiators continues. Several fragments of plaster from a greyish white non-frescoed wall fell in this ancient pagan place of worship, which is considered to be an archaeological jewel. The fragments have now been retrieved.

The head of the Pompeii heritage department announced that it was a fragment of rough plaster approximately a metre long that had become detached ‘from the external surface of the eastern wall of the cell in the Temple of Jupiter’, situated in the Forum. The Temple, located in the northern section of the Forum, dates back to 250 BC. In 79 AD, when the eruption destroyed the city, the Temple was undergoing essential renovation work following the earthquake in 62 AD. The shrine stands on a raised podium, which is adorned with six Corinthian columns.

In light of this, could the Commission state:

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(19 April 2012)

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002185/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Contratti penalizzanti per le donne

Nei contratti di consulente esterno la televisione di Stato italiana inserisce una clausola penalizzante per le donne. ₫In caso — si legge nei contratti — di malattia, infortunio, gravidanza o altre cause di impedimento insorte durante l'esercizio del contratto, questo potrà essere risoluto senza compenso o indennizzo₻.

La clausola, quindi, impedisce addirittura al contrattualizzato di avere problemi di salute e, nel caso delle donne, di aspettare un bambino.

Alla luce dei fatti sopraesposti, può la Commissione far sapere:

Risposta data da Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(25 aprile 2012)

L'articolo 10 della direttiva 92/85/CEE (210) vieta espressamente il licenziamento delle lavoratrici nel periodo compreso tra l'inizio della gravidanza e il termine del congedo di maternità. L'uso di clausole di risoluzione finalizzate a licenziare le lavoratrici in caso di gravidanza non è pertanto conforme alla suddetta direttiva.

Se le consulenti esterne in questione non rientrano nella definizione di lavoratrici a norma della direttiva 92/85/CEE, si applica loro la direttiva 2006/54/CE (211) o la direttiva 86/613/CEE (212), che si applica alle lavoratrici autonome e che, come affermato all'articolo 1, integra la direttiva 76/207/CEE relativamente all'attuazione del principio della parità di trattamento tra gli uomini e le donne che svolgono un'attività autonoma vietando, come la direttiva 76/207/CEE, qualsiasi discriminazione fondata, sia direttamente sia indirettamente, sul sesso. A prescindere da quale sia la direttiva applicabile, è importante garantire alle interessate la tutela concessa dal diritto dell’Unione alle donne gestanti nel caso in cui il rapporto giuridico che le legano ad un altro soggetto sia stato risolto a causa di una gravidanza (213).

L'Italia ha recepito la direttiva 92/85/CEE tramite il decreto legislativo 25 novembre 1996, n. 645 (GU n. 299 del 21/12/1996) (214), la direttiva 2006/54/CE tramite il decreto legislativo 25 gennaio 2010, n. 5 (GU n. 151 del 5/2/2010) e la direttiva 86/613/CEE tramite una serie di leggi fra cui la legge 19 maggio 1975, n. 151 (GU n. 135 del 23/5/1975) e la legge 30 dicembre 1971, n. 1204 (GU n.14 del 18/1/1972).

Interpretare e applicare le leggi nazionali che recepiscono queste direttive è compito dei tribunali nazionali, cui le donne interessate possono rivolgersi per far valere i loro diritti. La Commissione contatterà inoltre le autorità italiane per ottenere ulteriori informazioni e valutare se, a causa della proprietà pubblica di RAI, l'utilizzo di tali clausole implica un'infrazione della normativa dell'UE da parte dello Stato italiano.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002185/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Work contracts that penalise women

Italian state television contracts for external consultants contain a clause that penalises women. It reads as follows: ‘In the event of illness, accident, pregnancy or other impediment during the contracted period, the contract may be terminated without any payment or compensation’.

This clause therefore prohibits the contracted party from having any health problems and it discriminates against women who become pregnant.

In light of this, could the Commission state:

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(25 April 2012)

Article 10 of Directive 92/85/EEC (215) explicitly prohibitsthe dismissal of workers during the period from the beginning of their pregnancy to the end of the maternity leave. Therefore, the use of termination clauses to dismiss female workers in case of pregnancy is not in conformity with the abovementioned directive.

If the female consultants concerned are not workers within the meaning of Directive 92/85/EEC, they falls within the scope of Directive 2006/54/EC (216), or for ‘a self-employed person’ — within the scope of Directive 86/613 (217), which applies to self-employed persons and which, as is stated in Article 1 of that directive, supplements Directive 76/207 as regards the application of the principle of equal treatment for those workers, prohibiting, like Directive 76/207, any discrimination whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, on grounds of sex. Whichever directive applies, it is important to ensure, for the person concerned, the protection granted under EC law to pregnant women in cases where the legal relationship linking her to another person has been severed on account of her pregnancy (218).

Italy has transposed Directive 92/85/EEC with Leg. Decr. n. 645/1996, OJ of 21.12.1996 n. 299 (219), Directive 2006/54 with Leg. Decr. n. 5/2010, OJ of 5.2.2010 n. 151 and Directive 86/613 with a series of laws, including Law 151/1975, OJ of 23.5.1975 n. 135 and Law 1204/1971, OJ of 18.1.1972 n. 14.

It is for the national courts to interpret and apply the national laws transposing these directives and the women concerned can enforce their rights through national courts. In addition, the Commission will contact the Italian authorities for further information to examine whether due to public ownership of RAI the use of such clauses amounts to an infringement of EC law by the Italian State.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002187/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(27 febbraio 2012)

Oggetto: Serre fotovoltaiche

Un'esigenza centrale dell'Italia di oggi è quella di poter praticare linee di sviluppo economico che permettano contemporaneamente creazione di occupazione: dunque soluzioni di sviluppo sostenibile. Questa soluzione di sviluppo sostenibile ha oggi sia una base tecnica che una base economica. La base tecnica di questa linea è la produzione, con alta produttività, di prodotti ortofrutticoli in ambiente controllato assieme a energia elettrica fotovoltaica. Si tratta necessariamente di serre fotovoltaiche effettive, dove il termine effettive significa che deve essere garantito che la produzione elettrica non limiti in nessun modo la producibilità agricola.

Un'unità agricola basata su serre fotovoltaiche effettive (fattoria solare) può mettere a disposizione del produttore alcuni importanti vantaggi, come una produttività agricola nettamente superiore, almeno 50 volte, al corrispondente terreno aperto con culture ad alta qualità e alto prezzo nonché numerosi posti di lavoro stabili (5-8 persone per ettari serra) con attività a chilometro ₫doppio zero₻ (produzione e consumi ₫distribuiti₻). In prospettiva a questi vantaggi specifici, possono aggiungersi quelli di un'integrazione con impianti a biomassa (cogenerazione), di uno sviluppo del valore aggiunto lungo la filiera agroalimentare e una valorizzazione azionaria del capitale-terra. Infine, la possibilità di nuovi e più moderni modi di lavoro agricolo. Si apre oggi un'importante linea di sviluppo sostenibile in Italia e con grandi potenzialità di esportazione di soluzioni impiantistiche nei paesi della Sunbelt mondiale (Expo 2015).

Tutto ciò premesso, può la Commissione far sapere se:

Risposta data da Dacian Cioloş a nome della Commissione

(30 marzo 2012)

L’orticoltura in serra è un’attività ad uso intensivo di capitale, manodopera e spesso, di energia. La Commissione concorda con l’onorevole parlamentare sul fatto che impiegare parte della copertura delle serre per produrre energia elettrica senza un calo della produttività orticola equivarrebbe a utilizzare le superfici agricole a scarso rendimento in modo ancor più efficiente.

In linea di massima, la produzione di energia fotovoltaica non è ancora economicamente competitiva nell’Unione europea. La costruzione di serre fotovoltaiche è pertanto possibile soltanto nel caso in cui siano previsti incentivi economici.

L’UE è impegnata ad aumentare al 20 % la percentuale delle energie rinnovabili, tra cui l’elettricità verde, nel suo mix energetico entro il 2020. Spetta agli Stati membri definire e attuare le misure per raggiungere gli obiettivi nazionali rispettivi. Tali misure possono prevedere o meno un sostegno all’energia elettrica prodotta da serre fotovoltaiche.

La Commissione incoraggia gli Stati membri a condividere le loro esperienze sulla promozione delle energie rinnovabili, lo scambio delle migliori pratiche e l’elaborazione di strategie comuni, ad esempio attraverso CA-RES, l’azione concertata sulla direttiva relativa alle fonti energetiche rinnovabili (220). La Commissione gestisce inoltre il programma dell’UE ₫Energia intelligente — Europa₻, nel cui ambito è possibile presentare progetti sulle energie rinnovabili e promuovere le migliori pratiche in tutta Europa.

Anche la politica agricola comune, e in particolare la politica di sviluppo rurale, prevede possibilità di cofinanziamento degli investimenti di agricoltori e orticoltori per la costruzione di nuove serre, il miglioramento dell’efficienza energetica di quelle già esistenti o la produzione e l’uso di fonti energetiche rinnovabili. In tutte le regioni dell’UE, la responsabilità della politica di sviluppo rurale è condivisa tra l’Unione, lo Stato membro e la regione interessata. L’eventuale sostegno per la costruzione di serre fotovoltaiche dipende dal programma di sviluppo rurale in vigore in quella determinata regione.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-002187/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Frances Silvestris (PPE)

(27 February 2012)

Subject: Photovoltaic greenhouses

Today, one of the things Italy really needs is a way of promoting economic development whilst also creating new jobs: in other words, it needs sustainable development solutions. These days, sustainable development solutions are both technologically and economically based. The technological basis in this case is the production of fruit and vegetables in a controlled environment, achieving a high level of productivity, alongside photovoltaic electricity. The photovoltaic greenhouses used have to be effective, in other words they must ensure that electricity generation does not hinder agricultural productivity in any way.

An agricultural unit based on effective photovoltaic greenhouses (a solar farm) can provide a number of benefits for the producer, such as a marked increase in agricultural productivity, at least 50 times higher than the corresponding area of open farmland, and high-quality, high-value crops, as well as creating numerous permanent jobs (five to eight people per acre of greenhouse) with ‘double zero kilometre’ activities (‘distributed’ production and consumption). In addition to these specific advantages, other prospects could be opened up, namely integration with biomass plants (cogeneration), the enhancement of added value in the agri-foodstuffs industry as a whole, an increase in the value of land, and the development of new modernised farming methods. Today we are taking an important step forward for sustainable development in Italy, and there is great potential for exporting plant designs to global Sun Belt countries (Expo 2015).

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(30 March 2012)

Horticulture in greenhouses is a capital-, labour‐ and often also energy-intensive use of agricultural land. The Commission agrees that using part of the greenhouse roof space for production of electricity without a loss in horticultural productivity would be tantamount to using the scarce resource agricultural land even more efficiently.

Generally, photovoltaic electricity is not yet economically competitive in the EU. Construction of photovoltaic greenhouses will thus only take place if there are economic incentives in place.

The EU is committed to increase its use of renewable energy — including use of green electricity — to 20 % in 2020. It is the responsibility of the Member States to define and to implement measures to achieve their respective national targets. These measures may or may not include support to electricity from photovoltaic greenhouses.

The Commission encourages Member States to share their experiences with promoting renewable energy, to exchange best practices and to develop common approaches, for example through the Concerted Action on the Renewable Energy Sources Directive (221). The Commission also manages the EU's Intelligent Energy Europe Programme where innovative renewable energy projects can be demonstrated and best practices promoted across Europe.

The common agricultural policy through its rural development policy can also co-finance investments by farmers and horticulturalists into either new greenhouses, into improving the energy-efficiency of existing greenhouses or into production and use of renewable energy. In any given region in the EU, responsibility for rural development policy is shared between the EU, the Member State and the region. Whether specifically the building of photovoltaic greenhouses can be supported depends on the Rural Development Programme in force in that region.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-002188/12