. The Commission has no reasons to believe that the current authorised uses, as supported by industry, would not represent the actual conditions of use.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001324/13

to the Commission

Julie Girling (ECR)

(7 February 2013)

Subject: Illegal bird hunting in Malta

It has once again been brought to my attention that the Maltese Government is still failing to comply with the Birds Directive (2009/147/EC).

Is the Commission aware of the case recently reported by Birdlife Malta (52) where a man was caught on camera and admitted to illegally shooting and killing a barn swallow, but was not charged after a court decided that there was insufficient evidence?

Can the Commission provide an update on how it is ensuring that Malta and all the other Member States are complying with the Birds Directive (2009/147/EC)?

What does the Commission intend to do if countries such as Malta continue to fail to prevent the illegal hunting of protected birds?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(13 March 2013)

The incident reported by Birdlife Malta was brought to the attention of the Commission in an earlier question. The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-347/2013 (53) by Mr Ashley Fox.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-001326/13

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Lorenzo Fontana (EFD)

(8 febbraio 2013)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Arresti politici in Azerbaigian

A seguito di alcune proteste avvenute il 23 gennaio nella città di Ismayilli, il 26 gennaio si è tenuta una dimostrazione pacifica nelle strade della capitale Baku, sfociata in arresti indiscriminati. Il 4 febbraio, in seguito a questi eventi, anche il candidato alle presidenziali di ottobre, Illgar Mammadov, del partito di opposizione REAL (Republican Alternative), e un attivista del principale partito di opposizione, il Musavat, sono stati arrestati.

Alla luce dei recenti eventi già denunciati nell'interrogazione E-000406/2013, del fatto che le prossime elezioni presidenziali si svolgeranno nell'ottobre 2013 e dei rapporti diplomatici e commerciali che l'Unione europea intrattiene con la Repubblica dell'Azerbaigian, Stato costituzionalmente democratico, può il Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante far sapere:

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

(21 marzo 2013)

La dichiarazione congiunta rilasciata il 9 febbraio dai portavoce dell’Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente e del Commissario Füle riflette le preoccupazioni in merito agli arresti di Ilgar Mammadov e di Tofig Yagublu avvenuti il 4 febbraio. L’Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente ha auspicato indagini eque, trasparenti e rapide in merito alle imputazioni di entrambi. Questa posizione è stata ribadita in una dichiarazione dell’UE sulla situazione dei diritti umani in Azerbaigian, rilasciata nell’ambito del Consiglio permanente dell’OSCE del 14 febbraio. Al contempo, negli incontri politici del massimo livello, l’UE ha sottolineato e continuerà a sottolineare la necessità di una campagna equa e trasparente condotta in condizioni di parità e pienamente in linea con le raccomandazioni dell’OSCE-ODIHR formulate in seguito alle elezioni del 2010. Si ritiene che l’Azerbaigian debba garantire uno spazio politico aperto che consenta un dialogo sostanziale e accolga opinioni divergenti, in linea con gli impegni assunti dal paese in sede di Consiglio d’Europa, OSCE e partenariato orientale.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001326/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Lorenzo Fontana (EFD)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Political arrests in Azerbaijan

Following protests on 23 January 2013 in the town of Ismayilli, a peaceful demonstration held on 26 January 2013 on the streets of the Azeri capital, Baku, was broken up by the police, who made indiscriminate arrests. In the wake of these events, on 4 February 2013 Illgar Mammadov, who stood for the opposition party REAL (Republican Alternative) in the presidential election held in October 2012, and an activist from the main opposition party, Musavat, were also arrested.

In the light of the recent events referred to in Written Question E-000406/2013 and the fact that the next presidential election are due to be held in October 2013, and given that the European Union maintains diplomatic and trade relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan, an ostensibly democratic state, can the Vice-President/High Representative say whether she has taken further steps to ensure that the forthcoming elections are free and fair?

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

(21 March 2013)

Concerns about the arrests of Ilgar Mammadov and Tofig Yagublu on 4 February were reflected in the joint statement made by the spokespersons of the HR/VP and Commissioner Füle on 9 February. The HR/VP has since called for a fair, transparent and speedy investigation of the charges against both. This position was also reiterated in an EU statement on the situation of human rights in Azerbaijan, made in the framework of the OSCE Permanent Council of 14 February. At the same time, in political meetings at the highest level, the EU has underlined and will continue to underline the need for a fair and transparent campaign conducted on a level playing field and fully in line with the OSCE-ODIHR recommendations issued following the 2010 elections. I believe that Azerbaijan should guarantee an open political space allowing a substantive dialogue that includes diverging views, in line with Azerbaijan’s commitments towards the Council of Europe, OSCE and the Eastern Partnership.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-001327/13

alla Commissione

Lorenzo Fontana (EFD)

(8 febbraio 2013)

Oggetto: Riconoscimento della lingua italiana dei segni

In Italia la lingua dei segni non è ancora stata riconosciuta come lingua ufficiale a tutti gli effetti.

Alla luce di quanto segue:

può la Commissione far sapere:

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(10 aprile 2013)

In base alle informazioni contenute nell'ultima edizione del testo «Sign Language Legislation in the European Union », pubblicato nel 2012 dall'Unione europea dei sordi (EUD), la lingua dei segni è riconosciuta, almeno in una certa misura, in tutti gli Stati membri dell'Unione europea, salvo tre: Bulgaria, Malta e Lussemburgo. Per quanto riguarda l'Italia, pur non essendo riconosciuta giuridicamente a livello nazionale, la lingua dei segni è, a volte, prevista dalla normativa regionale, per esempio in Sicilia o in Val d'Aosta (54).

La Commissione è impegnata ad applicare, nei limiti delle sue competenze, la convenzione delle Nazioni Unite sui diritti delle persone con disabilità. Gli specifici provvedimenti volti a rispettare il diritto dei non udenti di utilizzare la lingua dei segni sono, principalmente, di competenza degli Stati membri. In questo ambito non è prevista una disciplina armonizzata dell'Unione europea. La Commissione sostiene, tuttavia, l'azione degli Stati membri, incentivando lo scambio di conoscenze e le attività di sensibilizzazione, anche attraverso il finanziamento delle spese di gestione dell'Unione europea dei sordi, nel quadro di un accordo di partenariato triennale.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001327/13

to the Commission

Lorenzo Fontana (EFD)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Recognition of the Italian sign language

In Italy, sign language is not yet recognised as an official language for all purposes.

— Given that such recognition would protect the rights of equal opportunities, dignity and respect of the individual;

— in view of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, which is fully binding on the European institutions and the Member States, and Article 22 of which establishes respect for cultural and linguistic diversity, with Article 26 recognising the right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence, social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community;

— in the light of the European Parliament resolutions of 17 June 1988 (OJ C187 of 18 July 1988) and 18 November 1998 (OJ C379 of 7 December 1998), and the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages of 1992, which Italy has ratified;

— considering that Italy has ratified, by Law No 18 of 3 March 2009, also the principles enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;

can the Commission say:

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(10 April 2013)

According to the recently published 2012 edition of ‘Sign Language Legislation in the European Union’ by the European Union of the Deaf (EUD), sign language is legally recognised at least to some extent in all but three EU Member States: Bulgaria, Malta and Luxembourg. As regards the situation in Italy, while there is no legal recognition at the national level, sign language is sometimes included in regional legislation, for example in Sicily or in the Aosta Valley (55).

The Commission is committed to the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to the extent of its competences. The specific measures needed in respect of the right of deaf persons to use sign language fall mainly within the competences of the Member States. A harmonised European legal framework in this area is not envisaged. However, the Commission supports Member States' action by fostering exchange of knowledge and awareness raising activities, including via its subsidy of the operating costs of the EUD under a three-year partnership agreement.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001328/13

to the Commission

Vicky Ford (ECR)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: LIFE+ funding: figures and review

It has been brought to my attention that UK participation in the LIFE+ financial instrument is well below expectations.

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(22 March 2013)

Between 2007 and 2011 there were 125 UK applications for funding under LIFE+. 32 were selected for funding. The success rate is comparable to the overall success rate across the EU.

The aim is to ensure value for money by focusing EU funding on the highest quality proposals. The Commission is, however, working with national authorities to encourage more high quality proposals from all Member States. Training courses are organised to make sure that all Member State National Contact Points for LIFE+ have a thorough understanding of the selection process and the main issues that lead to failure for proposals during the evaluation, so that they can provide assistance to potential applicants.

The Commission is working closely with DEFRA to improve the success rate of LIFE+ applications in the UK. For several years annual information sessions have taken place in London to promote a greater understanding of which type of projects can be funded under LIFE+, how to transform a good idea into a high quality LIFE+ application etc.

The evaluation of the proposals submitted in 2012 will be finalised in May 2013. At that point it should be possible to see if the efforts have had any positive effects on the success rate.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001329/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Aumento do número de casos de cancro

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

A estratégia da UE em matéria de saúde prevê a implementação de novas medidas no combate a esta doença?

Resposta dada por Joe Borg em nome da Comissão

(27 de março de 2013)

Em 2009, a Comissão adoptou uma comunicação intitulada Acção Contra o Cancro: Parceria Europeia (56). A parceria é posta em prática através da Ação Conjunta cofinanciada pelo Programa de Saúde da UE. Tem por objetivo contribuir para a redução da incidência do cancro através da prevenção e da promoção da saúde; despistagem e diagnóstico precoces; cuidados de saúde relacionados com o cancro; cooperação e coordenação da investigação e dos dados sobre o cancro.

A Parceria apoia os Estados-Membros na partilha das melhores práticas e no desenvolvimento dos planos nacionais de luta contra o cancro, o que deve representar um contributo sustentável na redução da incidência do cancro na UE. Um dos objetivos da Parceria é ajudar a reduzir a incidência do cancro em 15 % até 2020.

A parceria termina no final de 2014. A Comissão e os Estados-Membros estão agora a preparar uma nova Ação Conjunta para continuar a lutar contra a incidência do cancro. O objetivo é desenvolver um guia europeu sobre a melhoria da qualidade em termos de luta contra o cancro. O guia deve abordar aspetos de luta integrada contra o cancro, incluindo a prevenção, a despistagem, o tratamento, o acompanhamento, cuidados de apoio e paliativos e sobrevivência. Esta ação contribuirá para alcançar os objetivos da Parceria Europeia contra o Cancro e assentará nas suas realizações e em ações anteriores da UE de luta contra o cancro.

A Comissão coordena igualmente um «Observatório Europeu» sobre radioisótopos médicos, que tem por finalidade garantir a produção e o fornecimento de radioisótopos para imagiologia médica para apoiar a luta contra o cancro.

O Centro Comum de Investigação da Comissão continua a investigação em matéria de métodos inovadores e melhorados para o tratamento do cancro e de desenvolvimento de materiais de referência certificados para o acompanhamento de pacientes e contribui em várias iniciativas comuns com os Estados-Membros.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001329/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Rise in the number of cancer cases

According to data from Statistics Portugal (INE), 25 593 people died from cancer in Portugal in 2011.

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and the annual number of new cases is expected to double in the next 25 years, reaching 22 million in 2030.

World Cancer Day was held on 4 February 2013 and oncology experts who participated in the World Oncology Forum warned that ‘current strategies for controlling cancer are not working’.

Does the EU’s health strategy include the implementation of new measures to combat this disease?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(27 March 2013)

In 2009, the Commission adopted a communication on Action Against Cancer: European Partnership (57). The Partnership is implemented via a Joint Action co-funded by the EU Health Programme. It aims to contribute to the reduction of the cancer burden through health promotion and prevention; screening and early diagnosis; cancer-related healthcare; cooperation and coordination in cancer research and cancer data.

The Partnership supports Member States in sharing best practice and developing National Cancer Plans which should make a sustainable contribution to reducing the burden of cancer in the EU. One of the Partnership's aims is to help reduce the cancer incidence by 15% by 2020.

The Partnership will end in 2014. The Commission and Member States are now preparing a new Joint Action to continue addressing the burden of cancer. The aim is to develop a European guide on quality improvement in cancer control. The guide should address aspects of integrated cancer control, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, supportive and palliative care, and survivorship. This will contribute to reaching the aims of the European Partnership Against Cancer, and will build on its achievements and on previous EU actions on cancer.

The Commission is also coordinating a ‘European Observatory’ on medical radioisotopes, which aims to secure the production and supply of radioisotopes for medical imaging to support the fight against cancer.

The Commission's Joint Research Centre further carries out research on innovative and improved methods for cancer treatment and on development of certified reference materials for patient monitoring, and contributes to various common initiatives with Member States.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001330/13

à Comissão (Vice-Presidente/Alta Representante)

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: VP/HR — Visita de Ahmadinejad ao Cairo

O Presidente do Irão, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, é o primeiro líder da república Islâmica a visitar o Egito desde que Teerão rompeu as relações diplomáticas com o referido país em 1980.

Durante a sua estadia no Egito, Ahmadinejad afirmou que «se Teerão e o Cairo concordassem em mais questões regionais e internacionais, muita coisa iria mudar».

Pergunto à Vice-Presidente:

Que avaliação faz da visita e das declarações de Ahmadinejad no Egito?

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

(8 de maio de 2013)

A Alta Representante/Vice-Presidente registou a visita ao Cairo do Presidente Ahmadinejad do Irão, bem como as suas declarações. Neste momento, a Alta Representante/Vice-Presidente entende que a situação não é mais do que um encontro de duas Partes para discutir assuntos regionais.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001330/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Ahmadinejad's visit to Cairo

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the President of Iran, is the first leader of the Islamic Republic to visit Egypt since Tehran severed diplomatic ties with the country in 1980.

During his stay in Egypt, Mr Ahmadinejad said that ‘If Tehran and Cairo see more eye-to-eye on regional and international issues, many [issues] will change.’

What is the Vice-President’s assessment of Mr Ahmadinejad’s visit to Egypt and the statement he made there?

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

(8 May 2013)

The HR/VP has taken note of Iran’s President Ahmadinejad’s visit to Cairo and the statement he made. Currently, the HR/VP makes no further assessment of the situation than that it is a meeting of two parties having discussions on regional issues.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001331/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Aumento das taxas de desemprego

Considerando o seguinte:

Pergunto à Comissão:

Que avaliação faz da dimensão das taxas de desemprego registadas nestes países?

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(2 de abril de 2013)

A Comissão considera que a elevada taxa de desemprego na Espanha e na Grécia é um problema grave. Para além da perda de produção e de rendimento, o desemprego é uma fonte de dificuldades sociais e humanas. Assim, a Comissão considera que não devem ser poupados esforços para enfrentar as consequências sociais da elevada taxa de desemprego e restabelecer as condições para a criação sustentada de postos de trabalho. A este respeito, a Comissão propôs recentemente uma Garantia para a Juventude e os Estados‐Membros aprovaram uma Iniciativa para o Emprego dos Jovens com uma dotação de 6 000 milhões de euros.

As insuficiências do mercado de trabalho já eram uma característica dos mercados de trabalho grego e espanhol muito antes do início da crise económica e financeira, sobretudo a segmentação do mercado de trabalho em Espanha e baixas taxas de emprego e participação na Grécia. A crise da dívida que atingiu estes países fez das reformas estruturais e da consolidação fiscal credível condições necessárias para restaurar a confiança e restabelecer a solvência fiscal e incentivar o crescimento económico a médio prazo. Caso não se proceda a uma consolidação, o resultado será uma crise orçamental mais grave e efeitos muito mais desastrosos na atividade económica e no emprego.

Por esse motivo, apesar das diversas situações dos Estados‐Membros enumeradas pelo Senhor Deputado, estes países, independentemente de uma possível existência de programas de assistência financeira, têm vindo a envidar esforços para que as finanças públicas entrem numa via sustentável, empreendendo simultaneamente reformas para reforçar a capacidade de ajustamento e melhorar a competitividade. Essas reformas são condições prévias para promover a criação de emprego e abordar os problemas do mercado de trabalho que já vinham atingindo estas países quando as suas economias estavam a crescer rapidamente.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001331/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Rise in unemployment

Unemployment in Spain rose again in January, with an additional 132 055 people finding themselves out of work. Some 4.9 million Spaniards are currently unemployed, which is more than 26 % of the working population.

Spain and Greece currently have the highest unemployment rates in the euro area, a situation that continues to affect mainly young people under 25 years of age.

These figures are a reflection of the austerity policies that have been imposed.

What is the Commission’s assessment of the unemployment rates in these countries?

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 2013)

The Commission sees high unemployment in Spain and Greece as a serious problem. Besides the loss of production and income, joblessness is a source of social and human hardship. Thus, the Commission is of the view that no effort should be spared to address the social consequences of high unemployment and re-establish the conditions for sustained job creation. In this respect it recently proposed a Youth Guarantee and Member States agreed to a 6 billion Euros Youth Employment Initiative.

Labour market weaknesses characterised the Greek and the Spanish labour markets well before the start of the economic and financial crisis, most notably labour market segmentation in Spain and low employment and participation rates in Greece. The debt crisis that hit these countries has made credible fiscal consolidation and structural reforms necessary conditions to restore confidence and re-establish fiscal solvency and foster economic growth over the medium term. Failing to undertake consolidation would result in a more acute fiscal crisis and much more disastrous effects on economic activity and employment.

For this reason, despite the very varied situations of the Member States listed by the Honourable Member, these countries, irrespective of a possible presence of financial assistance programmes, have been dovetailing efforts to put public finances on a sustainable track, while undertaking reforms to enhance adjustment capacity and improve competitiveness. These reforms are preconditions to promote job creation and tackle the labour market problems that these countries were already experiencing when their economies were growing fast.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001333/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Rede Rural Nacional V

A Rede Rural Nacional é uma estrutura de ligação entre agentes com papel ativo no desenvolvimento rural que querem partilhar as suas experiências e os seus conhecimentos, melhorar o desempenho e obter melhores resultados.

À Rede Rural Nacional podem aderir agentes do desenvolvimento rural localizados em qualquer zona do país.

Pergunto à Comissão:

Qual a dotação financeira disponível até ao final do programa?

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001334/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Rede Rural Nacional VI

A Rede Rural Nacional é uma estrutura de ligação entre agentes com papel ativo no desenvolvimento rural, que querem partilhar as suas experiências e conhecimentos, melhorar o desempenho e obter melhores resultados.

À Rede Rural Nacional podem aderir agentes do desenvolvimento rural localizados em qualquer zona do país.

Pergunto à Comissão:

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001335/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Rede Rural Nacional VII

A Rede Rural Nacional é uma estrutura de ligação entre agentes com papel ativo no desenvolvimento rural que querem partilhar as suas experiências e os seus conhecimentos, melhorar o desempenho e obter melhores resultados.

À Rede Rural Nacional podem aderir agentes do desenvolvimento rural localizados em qualquer zona do país.

Pergunto à Comissão:

No que diz respeito à Rede Rural Nacional, quais foram as atividades desenvolvidas no quadro da sua participação na Rede Rural Europeia e quais as verbas despendidas com a mesma à data de dezembro de 2012?

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001336/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Rede Rural Nacional VIII

A Rede Rural Nacional é uma estrutura de ligação entre agentes com papel ativo no desenvolvimento rural que querem partilhar as suas experiências e os seus conhecimentos, melhorar o desempenho e obter melhores resultados.

À Rede Rural Nacional podem aderir agentes do desenvolvimento rural localizados em qualquer zona do país.

Pergunto à Comissão:

No que diz respeito à Rede Rural Nacional, quais foram as verbas despendidas em assistência técnica e qual o valor, em percentagem, do total da assistência técnica até dezembro de 2012?

Resposta conjunta dada por Dacian Cioloş em nome da Comissão

(12 de março de 2013)

A verba remanescente do Feader relativa ao programa português da rede rural nacional é de 4,2 milhões de euros.

Em 2012 não se perderam fundos desse programa.

As redes rurais nacionais são parceiros importantes à escala nacional, que participam em numerosas atividades da rede europeia de desenvolvimento rural (REDR). As despesas de deslocação são reembolsadas no caso do comité de coordenação da REDR, do subcomité Leader e dos seminários da REDR.

Em 2012 os representantes das redes rurais nacionais foram convidados a participar nos seguintes eventos:

Para mais informações sobre as atividades da REDR e da rede rural nacional portuguesa, queira consultar: (http://enrd.ec.europa.eu/) e (http://www.rederural.pt/index.php/actividades).

A rede rural nacional portuguesa prevê que uma percentagem de entre 10 e 25 % do montante atribuído ao programa (9,3 milhões de euros de contribuição do Feader) é gasta com o funcionamento da rede rural, estando incluídas todas as atividades relacionadas com a REDR. A Comissão não pode especificar os montantes atribuídos especificamente para este efeito até dezembro de 2012.

Em conformidade com o artigo 66.o, n.o 3, do Regulamento (CE) n.° 1698/2005 (58), todas as redes rurais nacionais operam com fundos provenientes da assistência técnica. Até dezembro de 2012, um montante total de 5,1 milhões de euros do Feader foi pago ao programa da rede rural nacional, o que representa 16 % das despesas gerais de assistência técnica do conjunto de todos os programas portugueses de desenvolvimento rural.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001333/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: National Rural Network V

The National Rural Network is a structure linking active players in rural development who wish to share their experiences and expertise, improve performance and obtain better results.

Rural development actors from any part of the country may join the National Rural Network.

What is the available financial envelope for this programme up to its completion?

Question for written answer E-001334/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: National Rural Network VI

The National Rural Network is a structure linking active players in rural development who wish to share their experiences and expertise, improve performance and obtain better results.

Rural development actors from any part of the country may join the National Rural Network.

In view of the delay in execution, can the Commission state whether any appropriations had been ‘lost’ as of December 2012?

Question for written answer E-001335/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: National Rural Network VII

The National Rural Network is a structure linking active players in rural development who wish to share their experiences and expertise, improve performance and obtain better results.

Rural development actors from any part of the country may join the National Rural Network.

What activities were carried out within the framework of the National Rural Network’s participation in the European Rural Network and what funding had been disbursed for this purpose as of December 2012?

Question for written answer E-001336/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: National Rural Network VIII

The National Rural Network is a structure linking active players in rural development who wish to share their experiences and expertise, improve performance and obtain better results.

Rural development actors from any part of the country may join the National Rural Network.

Can the Commission specify, for the National Rural Network, what amounts have been spent on technical assistance, and what this represented as a percentage of all technical assistance as of December 2012?

Joint answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(12 March 2013)

The remaining EAFRD financial envelope of the Portuguese National Rural Network (NRN) Programme amounts to EUR 4.2 million.

In 2012 no funds were lost by this programme.

The NRNs are important partners at the national level, participating in many activities of the European Network for Rural Development (ENRD). Travel costs are reimbursed in the case of ENRD Coordination Committees (CC), Leader Sub-Committees (LsC) and ENRD workshops.

In 2012 NRNs representatives were invited to participate in the following events:

More information on the ENRD and Portuguese NRN activities is available at: http://enrd.ec.europa.eu/ and http://www.rederural.pt/index.php/actividades

The Portuguese NRN foresees that between 10 and 25% of the allocated amount to the programme (EUR 9.3 million of EAFRD contribution), is spent on the functioning of the Rural Network, including all related ENRD activities. The Commission is unable to specify the funds disbursed for this specific purpose up to December 2012.

According to Article 66.3 of Regulation (EC) 1698/2005 (59), all NRNs operate with funds coming from technical assistance. Until December 2012, a total EAFRD amount of EUR 5.1 million has been paid to the NRN Programme, representing 16% of the overall expenditure in technical assistance spent by all Portuguese Rural Development Programmes.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001337/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Suíça quer limitar entrada de imigrantes portugueses

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

Que posição assume sobre a referida intenção do país helvético de limitar a entrada de portugueses, espanhóis e italianos neste país?

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

(10 de abril de 2013)

A Comissão remete para as suas respostas às perguntas precedentes O-000115/2012, O‐000113/2012 e E-004403/2012 (60) sobre as restrições quantitativas decididas pelo governo suíço em abril de 2012 relativamente aos cidadãos da República Checa, Estónia, Letónia, Lituânia, Hungria, Polónia, Eslovénia e Eslováquia.

O Acordo sobre a livre circulação de pessoas, alterado pelo Protocolo de 26 de outubro de 2004, prevê, no seu artigo 10.°, n.° 4, que até doze anos após a entrada em vigor do Acordo (ou seja, até 1 de junho de 2014), a Suíça poderá limitar unilateralmente o número de novas autorizações de residência de qualquer uma dessas categorias (residência por um período superior a quatro meses e inferior a um ano ou residência por um período igual ou superior a um ano) concedidas a trabalhadores assalariados e independentes da União Europeia, se o número de novas autorizações de residência de uma das duas categorias concedidas a trabalhadores assalariados e independentes for superior à média dos três anos anteriores em mais de 10 %. Esta possibilidade diz respeito aos nacionais de todos os Estados-Membros sem distinção (a Bulgária e a Roménia ainda estão abrangidas por medidas de transição por força do Protocolo de 27 de maio de 2008 do Acordo).

A Comissão não recebeu qualquer comunicação oficial da Suíça relativamente ao eventual alargamento das restrições quantitativas aplicáveis aos nacionais dos Estados-Membros.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001337/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Switzerland's intention to limit the number of Portuguese immigrants

The Swiss authorities are considering invoking a safeguard clause on the free movement of persons, under an agreement concluded with the European Union, to prevent the entry of immigrants from southern Europe, including Portuguese, Spanish and Italian citizens.

According to the French newspaper Les Echos, Switzerland does not want to become a refuge for the destitute of Europe. In April 2012, the Federal Council decided to cut the number of EU workers in the country.

Since the beginning of April 2012, the Swiss Government has placed restrictions on the entry of citizens from eight EU countries (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and the Czech Republic).

A clause in the bilateral agreement concluded between Switzerland and the EU allows for the implementation of a system for monitoring the movement of persons, resulting in quotas for immigrants entering the country.

Switzerland is a leading destination for Portuguese immigrants, and they form the largest foreign community in the country.

What is the Commission’s view of Switzerland’s intention to limit the number of Portuguese, Spanish and Italian immigrants?

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

(10 April 2013)

The Commission refers to its replies to previous questions O-000115/2012, O-000113/2012 and E-004403/2012 (61) on the quantitative restrictions decided by the Swiss Government in April 2012 as regards the nationals of the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia.

The Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons, as amended by the Protocol of 26 October 2004, provides in its Article 10(4) that, up to twelve years after the entry into force of the Agreement (i.e. until 1 June 2014), Switzerland may limit unilaterally the number of new residence permits of either of two categories (residence for a period of more than four months and less than one year and residence for a period equal to, or exceeding, one year) for employed and self-employed persons of the European Union if the number of new residence permits for either of the two categories issued to employed and self-employed persons in a given year exceeds the average for the three preceding years by more than 10%. This possibility concerns the nationals of all the Member States without distinction (bar Bulgaria and Romania, still under transition measures on the basis of the Protocol of 27 May 2008 to the Agreement).

The Commission has not received any official communication from Switzerland regarding a possible extension of the quantitative restrictions to the nationals of Member States.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001338/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Biocombustível na UE

Considerando o seguinte:

Assim, pergunto à Comissão:

Tem conhecimento do referido relatório? Como o avalia, tendo em conta que aponta no sentido oposto ao defendido pela União Europeia?

Resposta dada por Günther Oettinger em nome da Comissão

(4 de abril de 2013)

A Comissão tem conhecimento do relatório em causa (62) na revista «Nature Climate Change » , da autoria de um grupo de investigadores britânicos da Universidade de Lancaster, em Inglaterra.

Com base numa avaliação do impacto da plantação de 72 Mha de talhadia em rotações curtas (choupo, salgueiro ou eucalipto) na poluição pelo ozono e dos seus efeitos na saúde humana e nas colheitas, o estudo sugere que as emissões de gases com efeito de estufa não devem ser o único critério a ter em conta quando se desenvolvem políticas relativas aos biocombustíveis.

A Comissão avalia uma série de impactos quando elabora iniciativas sobre políticas, incluindo para os biocombustíveis. Essa avaliação engloba o impacto ambiental, social e económico, como foi o que aconteceu quando a Comissão adotou recentemente uma proposta com vista a minimizar os impactos negativos estimados das alterações indiretas da utilização dos solos associadas à utilização de biocombustíveis (63). Contudo, as análises da Comissão não consideraram os impactos referidos no estudo referido, não podendo a Comissão confirmar a sua validade ou pertinência.

A Comissão não tem conhecimento de quaisquer discussões sobre os preços dos alimentos neste estudo.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001338/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Biofuel in the EU

According to a study published in the journal Nature Climate Change, greater dependence on biofuel could lead to not only a reduction in agricultural production for human consumption, but also to an escalation in food prices.

This study, authored by a group of British researchers from Lancaster University in England, predicts that biofuel cultivation may add to pollution, despite reducing emissions of greenhouse gases such as CO2 compared with fossil fuels such as oil, coal and gas.

Following the adoption of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) in 2009, which establishes a series of environmental goals to be achieved by 2020, the EU has identified biofuel as a way of reducing the greenhouse effect and the emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

Is the Commission aware of this report? How does it evaluate it, given that it contradicts the EU’s stance on biofuel?

Answer given by Mr Oettinger on behalf of the Commission

(4 April 2013)

The Commission is aware of a study (64) in the journal Nature Climate Change, authored by a group of British researchers from Lancaster University in England.

Assessing the impacts of planting 72 Mha of short rotation coppice (poplar, willow or eucalyptus) on ozone pollution and its effects on human health and crop yields, the study suggests that not only greenhouse gas emissions should be the criteria when policies concerning biofuels are developed.

The Commission assesses a range of impacts when it develops policy initiatives, including for biofuels. Such assessment include wider environmental, social and economic impacts, as for example was the case when the Commission recently adopted a proposal to minimise the estimated negative impacts of indirect land-use change emissions, associated with the use of biofuels (65). However, the Commission's analyses have not considered the impacts suggested by the above study, and the Commission cannot confirm their validity or relevance.

The Commission is not aware of any discussion of food prices in this study.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001340/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Relatório do Banco Mundial

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(13 de março de 2013)

Para uma apreciação das perspetivas económicas da UE e da área do euro, convidamos o Senhor Deputado a consultar as recentes Previsões Económicas europeias do Inverno 2013, apresentadas a 22 de fevereiro de 2013, e disponíveis no seguinte endereço: (http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/publications/european_economy/forecasts/index_en.htm).

Na sua Análise Anual do Crescimento, de 28 de novembro de 2012, a Comissão Europeia definiu as prioridades económicas para 2013; prosseguir uma consolidação orçamental diferenciada, favorável ao crescimento, restabelecer as condições normais de concessão de crédito à economia real, incentivar o crescimento e a competitividade no presente e no futuro, combater o desemprego e as consequências sociais da crise e modernizar a administração pública. As medidas céleres e ambiciosas tanto a nível da UE como dos Estados-Membros, a par com estas orientações, contribuirão para atenuar os efeitos económicos negativos a curto prazo e, ao mesmo tempo, para lançar as bases para o regresso ao crescimento sustentável e à criação de emprego.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001340/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: World Bank Report

In its biannual report on ‘Global Economic Prospects’ experts from the World Bank say that the European economy is only likely to emerge from recession in 2014, a year later than expected.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(13 March 2013)

For an appreciation of the economic outlook for the EU and euro area, the Honourable Member is pointed to the recent winter 2013 European Economic Forecast presented on 22 February 2013 and available under the following link:

http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/publications/european_economy/forecasts/index_en.htm

The European Commission has set out its economic priorities for 2013 in the Annual Growth Survey of 28 November 2012; pursuing differentiated, growth-friendly fiscal consolidation, restoring normal lending to the economy, promoting growth and competitiveness for today and tomorrow, tackling unemployment and the social consequences of the crisis and modernising public administration. Taking swift and ambitious action on both EU and national level along these lines will contribute to mitigating negative short term economic developments while laying the foundations for a return to sustainable growth and jobs creation.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001341/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Situação em Chipre

Considerando que o BCE tem formulado preocupações em relação à situação de crise em Chipre e ao possível contágio da zona euro, em especial numa altura em que Irlanda e Portugal tentam regressar aos mercados;

Pergunta-se:

Como analisa a situação de Chipre?

Chipre já apresentou algum pedido de resgate, como tem vindo a ser anunciado?

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(12 de março de 2013)

Em 22 de fevereiro de 2013, a Comissão publicou as suas previsões do inverno, que incluem as projeções macroeconómicas e orçamentais para todos os Estados-Membros da UE, incluindo Chipre (66).

A República de Chipre apresentou um pedido de assistência financeira por parte dos Estados-Membros da zona do euro, no final de junho de 2012. A declaração do Eurogrupo, publicada em 27 de junho de 2012, está disponível no seguinte endereço:

http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ecofin/131308.pdf

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001341/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Situation in Cyprus

The ECB has expressed concerns about the crisis in Cyprus and possible contagion in the euro area, especially at a time when Ireland and Portugal are trying to return to the markets.

How does the Commission view the situation in Cyprus?

Has Cyprus already submitted a bailout request, as has been reported?

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(12 March 2013)

On 22 February 2013, the Commission has published its Winter Forecast which includes the macroeconomic and fiscal outreach for all EU Member States, including Cyprus (67).

Cyprus submitted a request for financial assistance from euro area Member States in late June 2012. The statement of the Eurogroup, released on 27 June 2012, can be found at:

http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ecofin/131308.pdf

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001342/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Reembolso das LTRO ao BCE

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(15 de março de 2013)

Porém, uma parte significativa da liquidez injetada através das LTRO a três anos permanecerá no sistema bancário. Além disso, a devolução de uma parte do excesso de liquidez pode constituir, na realidade, um sinal do regresso da confiança aos bancos da UE. Tais sinais podem permitir aos bancos ponderar a transferência dos «amortecedores de liquidez» onerosos que ainda mantêm para a concessão de empréstimos à economia.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001342/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: LTRO repayments to the ECB

— The European Central Bank (ECB) has revealed that 278 banks will repay EUR 137.2 billion under the LTRO (longer-term refinancing operation) at the earliest opportunity.

— A year ago, the ECB launched two refinancing lines for European banks, called LTRO, to avoid a bottleneck of credit in the financial system.

— Analysts believe that repayments to the ECB signal the return of stability to the financial sector, after the crisis of confidence resulting from the sovereign debt crisis.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(15 March 2013)

However, an important part of the liquidity injected through the 3-year LTROs will still remain in the banking system. In addition, returning some excess liquidity may be actually a signal of the return of confidence in EU banks. Such signs may allow banks to consider transferring the costly liquidity buffers they still hold towards lending to the economy.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001343/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Aumento dos prazos dos empréstimos da «troika» aos países intervencionados

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(20 de março de 2013)

A possibilidade de prolongar a duração dos empréstimos concedidos a Portugal e à Irlanda pela UE e pelos Estados‐Membros da área do euro — através do Mecanismo Europeu de Estabilização Financeira (MEEF) e do Fundo Europeu de Estabilidade Financeira (FEEF) — está presentemente a ser examinada. Neste contexto, tem de ser analisado um conjunto de questões jurídicas, técnicas e financeiras. A decisão de prolongar ou não a duração dos empréstimos, e, em caso afirmativo, sobre as modalidades dessa extensão, está nas mãos do Conselho e dos Estados‐Membros da área do euro. O prolongamento da duração dos empréstimos concedidos pelo FMI não está a ser considerado.

A extensão da duração dos empréstimos concedidos pela UE, numa modalidade adequada, poderia ajudar Portugal e a Irlanda a aceder mais facilmente aos mercados. Esta possibilidade também poderá ter um efeito indireto no crescimento económico. Os empréstimos a baixo custo estariam disponíveis por mais tempo, pelo que a taxa de juro implícita e as correspondentes despesas financeiras de Portugal, durante os anos da extensão, seriam mais baixas (pressupondo que os investidores privados continuariam a cobrar uma taxa de juro mais elevada). O Estado poderia usar as poupanças a nível das despesas financeiras para efeitos de investimento ou consumo público e eventualmente gerar crescimento. Os programas de ajustamento económico da Irlanda e de Portugal incluem diversas medidas específicas, em particular no domínio estrutural, que incidem explicitamente na revigoração do crescimento económico nestes países.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001343/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Lengthening the maturity of loans from the Troika to the bailed-out countries

— Some argue that lengthening the maturity of loans from the Troika to the countries implementing adjustment programmes would foster their growth.

— The extent of returns to international creditors would support the growth of these countries as, otherwise, they will be forced to create primary surplus in the next 5‐10 years.

— A positive result in each quarter is needed to maintain investor confidence.

— Any problems implementing the programmes will undermine confidence and the success of the reforms.

— Lengthening the maturity of loans to the bailed-out countries could improve their credit rating and therefore facilitate a strong return to the markets.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(20 March 2013)

The possibility to lengthen the maturity of loans granted by the EU and the euro area Member States to Portugal and Ireland — via EFSM and EFSF — is currently under consideration. A number of legal, technical and financial issues have to examined in this context. The eventual decision whether and, if yes, in which format to lengthen the maturities of loans is in the hands of the Council and of the euro area Member States. The extension of IMF loans is not considered.

The extension of EU loan maturities in an appropriate format could help Portugal and Ireland to ease market access. It could also have an indirect effect on economic growth. The low-cost loans would be outstanding for longer, so Portugal's implicit interest rate and respectively interest expenditure during the years of extension would be lower (assuming that private investors would continue charging higher interest rate). The State could use savings in interest expenditure for investment or public consumption, possibly generating growth. Economic adjustment programmes for Ireland and Portugal include several specific measures, in particular in the structural field, that explicitly target the reinvigoration of economic growth in these countries.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001344/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Insolvência de empresas em Portugal

Considerando que:

Pergunto:

Resposta dada por António Tajani em nome da Comissão

(12 de abril de 2013)

Por forma a suportar as empresas em tempos difíceis, a Comissão está a promover um melhor ambiente empresarial: isto inclui trabalhar com os Estados Membros na partilha e identificação de boas práticas, assim como procurar, sempre que possível, dispensar as microempresas da legislação da UE (68).

Está também a facilitar o acesso a apoio financeiro por parte das pequenas e médias empresas (PME). A Comissão está a trabalhar conjuntamente com os Estados Membros para definir um sistema abrangente de políticas e instrumentos financeiros para apoiar financeiramente as PME. Para além disso, a Comissão está a trabalhar com várias instituições financeiras para proporcionar financiamento às PME (69).

É essencial a existência de leis modernas e procedimentos eficientes por forma a ajudar as empresas a ultrapassar as dificuldades financeiras e a obterem uma «segunda oportunidade». Consequentemente, a Comissão adotou uma comunicação (70) sobre uma nova abordagem à insolvência e pretende iniciar uma consulta pública sobre esta matéria. Convidou também os Estados Membros a melhorar os seus procedimentos e serviços relacionados com as insolvências. (71)

Combinar a consolidação fiscal com instrumentos de reforço do crescimento é a única rota a seguir para voltar a colocar Portugal na trajetória do crescimento sustentável. As reformas em curso estão a preparar o terreno para uma economia dinâmica e competitiva, necessária para assegurar a longo prazo a viabilidade e solvência das empresas portuguesas. Estas reformas incluem uma revisão da insolvência corporativa e da lei de recuperação para melhor suportar o resgate atempado das empresas viáveis e novos mecanismos judiciais e sistemas extrajudiciais rápidos de reestruturação e reembolso da dívida empresarial (Sireve, PER), sendo postas em prática para ajudar na recuperação de empresas em dificuldades financeiras e para evitar novas falências.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001344/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Insolvency of Portuguese companies

According to an annual report by the credit and suretyship insurance company COSEC, the number of insolvent enterprises in Portugal rose to 6 688 in 2012, a 41 % increase on the figure for 2011, with the construction sector being the worst hit.

The study also explained that this sector accounted for almost 28 % of total verified insolvencies in 2012, with 1 846 cases, and that the total number of insolvent enterprises rose by 43 % in 2012 in comparison with the previous year.

The report concludes that the 2012 figures confirmed COSEC’s forecast of reduced growth in international trade, which together with more restrictive monetary and fiscal policies, particularly in Europe, caused a considerable number of companies to disappear.

COSECalso highlighted the fact that 76% of the insolvent companies were micro-enterprises, with particularly large numbers of cases in the construction (20 %), retail (14 %) and services (13%) sectors.

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(12 April 2013)

In order to support companies in difficult times, the Commission is promoting a better business environment: this includes working with Member States in identifying and exchanging good practice, as well as seeking wherever possible to exempt micro-enterprises from EU legislation (72).

It is also facilitating access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Commission is working with Member States to set out a comprehensive system of financial policies and instruments to support SME financing. Moreover, the Commission is working with various financial institutions to provide SMEs with funding (73).

It is essential to have modern laws and efficient procedures to help businesses overcome financial difficulties and get a ‘second chance’. Consequently, the Commission adopted a communication (74) on a new approach to insolvency and plans to launch a public consultation on the issue. It also invited Member States to improve existing procedures and services related to insolvencies (75).

Combining fiscal consolidation with growth enhancing instruments is the only way forward to put Portugal back on the path of sustainable growth. The reforms underway are laying the ground for a dynamic and competitive economy required to ensure the long-term solvency and viability of Portuguese companies. These reforms include a revision of the corporate insolvency and recovery law to better support early rescue of viable firms and new fast track in-court mechanisms and out-of-court corporate debt restructuring and recovery mechanisms (SIREVE, PER) were put in place to help the recovery of companies in financial difficulties and to prevent further bankruptcies.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001345/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: 50 milhões de euros para o Mali

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

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

(3 de abril de 2013)

Em consonância com o Groupe international de Soutien et de Suivi sur la situation au Mali, que recebeu em 5 de fevereiro de 2013 em Bruxelas, a UE participa na mobilização internacional em favor da estabilidade e da segurança no Mali.

Neste contexto, o Conselho dos Negócios Estrangeiros de 18 de fevereiro de 2013 manifestou o seu apoio político à operação francesa Serval, bem como à Missão Internacional de Apoio ao Mali sob liderança africana (MISMA). Reafirmou igualmente o seu compromisso de combater a ameaça terrorista.

Além disso, em paralelo com a ação dos Estados-Membros, implicados diretamente a nível operacional (França) ou indiretamente, por meio de um apoio logístico à operação africana, a UE prestará um apoio financeiro de 50 milhões de euros à MISMA através do Fundo de Apoio à Paz em África. Os fundos atribuídos destinam-se a cobrir essencialmente as despesas de subsistência das tropas e dos oficiais. Os custos associados aos equipamentos militares não podem ser cobertos pelo Fundo de Apoio à Paz em África.

A Comunidade Económica dos Estados da África Ocidental (Cedeao) assegurará a gestão financeira do apoio da UE à MISMA. Este apoio incluirá igualmente uma assistência com vista a reforçar as capacidades da Cedeao para a gestão financeira da MISMA e das futuras operações de apoio à paz na África Ocidental.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001345/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: EUR 50 million for Mali

The Commission is going to provide EUR 50 million to support peace in Mali.

This European contribution was decided at the Donors’ Conference in Ethiopia.

This action strongly signals the Commission’s support for territorial integrity and the restoration of peace in Mali.

(Version française)

En ligne avec le Groupe international de Soutien et de Suivi sur la situation au Mali qu'elle a accueilli le 5 février 2013 à Bruxelles, l'UE participe à la mobilisation internationale en faveur de la stabilité et de la sécurité au Mali.

Dans ce cadre, le Conseil Affaires étrangères du 18 février 2013 a apporté son soutien politique à l'opération française Serval ainsi qu'à la mission internationale de soutien au Mali sous conduite africaine (MISMA). Il a également réaffirmé son engagement dans la lutte contre la menace terroriste.

Aussi, en parallèle à l'action de ses États-membres, impliqués au plan directement opérationnel (France) ou indirectement via un soutien logistique à l'opération africaine, l'UE apportera un appui financier de 50 millions d'euros à la MISMA à travers sa Facilité de Paix pour l'Afrique. Les fonds alloués couvriront essentiellement les per diem des troupes et des officiers d'état-major. Les coûts relatifs aux équipements militaires ne peuvent pas être couverts par la Facilité de Paix pour l'Afrique.

La Communauté économique des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest (Cedeao) assurera la gestion financière de la contribution de l'UE à la MISMA. Cette contribution comprendra également une assistance afin de renforcer les capacités de la Cedeao pour la gestion financière de la MISMA et de futures opérations de soutien à la paix en Afrique de l'Ouest.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-001346/13

à Comissão

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 de fevereiro de 2013)

Assunto: Apoio da «troika» a Portugal

Considerando que:

Pergunto à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(25 de março de 2013)

A Comissão, por ocasião da preparação do 6.° relatório de avaliação do programa de ajustamento económico para Portugal, consultou o Mecanismo Europeu de Estabilização Financeira (MEEF), o Fundo Europeu de Estabilidade Financeira (FEEF) e o Fundo Monetário Internacional (FMI) com vista a obter valores exatos relativamente aos respetivos desembolsos, passados e futuros, para Portugal. Os dados e explicações recebidos dos mutuantes foram apresentados no relatório original. A pedido expresso das autoridades portuguesas, a Comissão, em colaboração com o FEEF, concordou em rever o relatório no que toca à parte do financiamento concedida pelo FEEF, sublinhando os montantes dos desembolsos líquidos do FEEF.

O montante dos desembolsos depende da definição de desembolso adotada pelo FEEF e da perspetiva mutuante/beneficiário. O montante principal da assistência financeira a Portugal desembolsada pelo FEEF deverá atingir 28,4 mil milhões de euros. Este montante é o relevante na perspetiva dos mutuantes, uma vez que define o montante das garantias do FEEF assumidas pelos Estados-Membros fiadores. O montante do desembolso líquido do FEEF deverá ser igual a 26 mil milhões de euros. Este montante é o relevante do ponto de vista da gestão de tesouraria do país beneficiário. A diferença deve-se sobretudo à «reserva de segurança específica para o empréstimo» e à «margem pré-paga» que estavam previstas no quadro jurídico do FEEF quando este foi criado e foram aplicadas às primeiras parcelas dos desembolsos a Portugal.

O FMI acordou emprestar a Portugal um total de 23,7 mil milhões de direitos de saque especiais (DSE). Este montante era equivalente a 26 mil milhões de euros aquando o início do programa mas aumentou devido às flutuações DSE/EUR; este montante em euros pode vir a sofrer novas alterações.

O Senhor Deputado pode proceder a consultas complementares junto do FEEF ou do MEE para mais pormenores acerca das alterações no quadro legal do FEEF que afetam o montante dos desembolsos, bem como quanto às obrigações financeiras de Portugal perante o FEEF.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001346/13

to the Commission

Nuno Melo (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Troika assistance to Portugal

Instead of the EUR 82 billion that Portugal was going to receive in additional borrowing, as part of the economic and financial adjustment programme agreed with the Troika, it will now only receive EUR 80 billion, owing to a mistake made by the Commission, which had to be rectified in the report by Brussels.

Does the Commission accept that its services made a mistake when they announced the amount of EUR 82 billion?

Exactly how much will Portugal receive under the economic and financial adjustment programme agreed with the Troika?

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(25 March 2013)

The Commission, when preparing the 6th review report, consulted the EFSM, the EFSF and the IMF for precise estimates of their past and future disbursements to Portugal. The data and explanations received from the lenders were presented in the original report. Upon the explicit request by the Portuguese authorities, the Commission, in consulatation with the EFSF, agreed to revise the report with respect to the EFSF lending part and to stress the EFSF net disbursement amounts in the report.

The disbursement amounts depend on EFSF disbursement definition and lender / beneficiary perspective. The principal financial assistance amounts to Portugal disbursed by the EFSF is projected to be equal to EUR 28.4 billion. This amount is relevant from the lenders' perspective as it defines the amount of EFSF guarantees to be provided by guarantor MS. The net EFSF disbursement amount is projected to equal to EUR 26 billion. This amount is relevant from the cash management perspective of the beneficiary country. The difference is mainly attributable to the ‘loan specific cash buffer’ and the ‘prepaid margin’ that were present in the EFSF legal framework when the EFSF was created and were applied to the first tranches disbursed to Portugal.

The IMF agreed to lend Portugal in total SDR 23.7 billion. This amount was equivalent to EUR 26 billion at the inception of the programme but has increased due to SDR/EUR fluctuations; this amount in EUR may further change.

The Honourable Member may further consult the EFSF/ESM for details on EFSF legal framework changes affecting the disbursement amounts as well as on Portugal's outstanding obligations vis-à-vis the EFSF.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001347/13

an die Kommission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(8. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Freihandelszone EU/USA — Datenschutz

Seit Jahrzehnten wird die Idee eines transatlantischen Binnenmarktes zwischen den Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika und der Europäischen Union diskutiert. Seither gab es einige diesbezügliche Entschließungen seitens der EU, bisher ohne nennenswerte Ergebnisse. Nun aber scheint das Projekt wieder Fahrt aufnehmen. So setzten US-Präsident Barack Obama und EU-Ratspräsident Herman van Rompuy bereits Ende des vorigen Jahres eine Arbeitsgruppe ein, die die Idee erneut prüfen soll. Auch die die irische EU-Ratspräsidentschaft steht hinter dem Projekt. In vielerlei Hinsicht pflegen die USA und Europa jedoch einen sehr unterschiedlichen Zugang zu wichtigen wirtschafts‐ und sozialpolitischen Themen. Daraus ergibt sich folgende Frage:

Beim Datenschutz könnten die Zugänge zwischen Europäern und Amerikanern nicht unterschiedlicher sein. Sei es hinsichtlich des Zugriffs auf Bankdaten, oder auf Daten in sogenannten Clouds. Zudem exstieren einige auch für europäische Bürger äußerst bedenkliche Gesetze in den USA, wie etwa der Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), der den US-Behörden ein hohes Maß an Überwachung ermöglicht. Darüber hinaus können US-Behörden mit dem sogenannten Subpoena-Verfahren Unternehmen zwingen, Daten herauszugeben, wobei der Schutz europäischer Bürger nicht klar geregelt ist. Die US-Administration scheint offenbar auch auf Twitter-Profile und Ähnliches zugreifen zu wollen. In Anbetracht der Tatsache, dass die Nutzung des Internets in immer weiteren Bereichen des alltäglichen Lebens eine zentrale Rolle spielt und oftmals mehrere Unternehmen an den Diensten beteiligt sind, würde es in einem transatlantischen Binnenmarkt noch schwieriger werden als bisher, europäische Datenschutzstandards zu wahren. Wie gedenkt die Kommission hier vorzugehen?

Antwort von Frau Reding im Namen der Kommission

(8. April 2013)

Die Kommission ist sich bewusst, wie wichtig die Gewährleistung eines gleichmäßig hohen Schutzes der personenbezogenen Daten natürlicher Personen ist; auch dann, wenn diese Daten in Länder außerhalb der EU transferiert werden.

Sie kennt die Bedenken angesichts der extraterritorialen Anwendung fremden Rechts auf Datenverarbeitungsvorgänge im Hoheitsgebiet der Mitgliedstaaten. Dieses Recht kann gegen Völkerrecht verstoßen und Bürger in der Union in ihren Grundrechten beeinträchtigen. Die Kommission steht auf dem Standpunkt, dass amerikanische Strafverfolgungsbehörden, nach deren Erkenntnissen sich von ihnen benötigte Informationen an einem Ort außerhalb ihrer Hoheitsgewalt befinden, die vorhandenen Kooperationsmechanismen zwischen den USA und der EU nutzen oder sich an die EU-Mitgliedstaaten wenden sollten, in denen sich diese Daten befinden.

Bei der umfassenden Datenschutzreform wurde diesen Bedenken Rechnung getragen. Der Vorschlag für eine Datenschutz-Grundverordnung (76) verschärft und vereinfacht gleichzeitig die Vorschriften für die Datenübermittlung in Länder, für die kein Angemessenheitsbeschluss gilt. Darin wird auch klargestellt, dass Datenübermittlungen nur dann erlaubt sein sollen, wenn die Bedingungen für eine internationale Datenübermittlung vorliegen.

Die Frage wird regelmäßig mit den US-Behörden diskutiert, so auch bei den Verhandlungen über ein Abkommen zwischen der EU und den USA über den Austausch personenbezogener Daten zwischen den Justiz‐ und Polizeibehörden, das allen Personen ein hohes Datenschutzniveau garantieren soll.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001347/13

to the Commission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: EU-USA free trade area — data protection

For several decades now the idea of a transatlantic single market between the USA and the EU has been mooted. Since then there have been a number of resolutions from the EU on this issue, so far without appreciable success. However, the project now seems to be gathering momentum again. As recently as the end of last year, President Barack Obama of the USA and EU Council President Herman van Rompuy set up a joint working party to reconsider the idea. The Irish Presidency of the EU has also backed the project. In many respects, however, the USA and Europe have very different approaches to important issues of economic and social policy. That being so, I should like to ask the following question.

In the area of data protection, the European and American approaches could hardly be more different, whether regarding access to bank data or to data in ‘clouds’. Furthermore there are some laws in the USA which appear very dubious to Europeans, such as the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) which allows the US authorities to exercise a high degree of surveillance. There is also the subpoena procedure, whereby US authorities can force businesses to release data, and in which the protection of EU citizens is not clearly regulated. The US administration is also evidently keen to access Twitter profiles and similar data. Given that the use of the Internet plays a key role in an increasing number of areas of daily life, and that frequently several undertakings are involved in providing a given service, in a transatlantic internal market it would become even harder to guarantee European data protection standards. What measures does the Commission propose to take in this area?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(8 April 2013)

The Commission is sensitive to the importance of guaranteeing a consistent and high level of protection of individuals’ personal data, including when it is transferred outside the EU.

The Commission is aware of the concerns related to the extraterritorial application of laws of third countries regulating data processing activities that fall under the jurisdiction of Member States. These laws may be in breach of international law and affect the fundamental rights of individuals in the Union. The Commission considers that when a law enforcement authority in the US realises that necessary information lies outside its jurisdiction, it should ask for it via the existing cooperation mechanisms between the US and the EU or its Member States where that data are located.

These concerns have been taken into account in the comprehensive reform package of data protection rules. The proposal for a General Data Protection Regulation (77) reinforces and simplifies rules on international transfers to countries not covered by adequacy decisions. The proposed Regulation also makes clear that data transfers should only be allowed where the conditions of the regulation for an international transfer are met.

This issue is also regularly raised with the US authorities, notably in the context of the negotiation of an EU-US agreement on the exchange of personal data between judicial and police authorities that should provide a high level of protection for all individuals.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001348/13

an die Kommission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(8. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Freihandelszone EU/USA — Lebensmittel

Seit Jahrzehnten wird die Idee eines transatlantischen Binnenmarktes zwischen den Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika und der Europäischen Union diskutiert. Seither gab es einige diesbezügliche Entschließungen seitens der EU, bisher ohne nennenswerte Ergebnisse. Nun aber scheint das Projekt wieder Fahrt aufnehmen. So setzten US-Präsident Barack Obama und EU-Ratspräsident Herman van Rompuy bereits Ende des vorigen Jahres eine Arbeitsgruppe ein, die die Idee erneut prüfen soll. Auch die irische EU-Ratspräsidentschaft steht hinter dem Projekt. In vielerlei Hinsicht pflegen die USA und Europa jedoch einen sehr unterschiedlichen Zugang zu wichtigen wirtschafts‐ und sozialpolitischen Themen. Daraus ergibt sich folgende Frage:

Während die Europäer gentechnisch veränderten Nahrungs‐ und Futtermitteln extrem skeptisch gegenüberstehen, gibt es in den USA nicht einmal diesbezügliche Warnhinweise auf Lebensmittelverpackungen. Ähnliches gilt für Massentierhaltung und den Einsatz von Antibiotika (siehe WTO-Streit um hormonbehandeltes Rindfleisch). Wie gedenkt die Kommission in einem gemeinsamen Binnenmarkt mit den USA europäische Standards und Wertvorstellungen in der Lebensmittelherstellung zu wahren?

Antwort von Herrn De Gucht im Namen der Kommission

(19. März 2013)

In künftigen Verhandlungen über ein Handels‐ und Investitionsabkommen zwischen der EU und den USA wird die Gesundheit der europäischen Verbraucher nicht für wirtschaftliche Gewinne aufs Spiel gesetzt werden. Grundlegende Rechtsvorschriften zum Verbraucherschutz stehen nicht zur Debatte.

Die Kommission verlangt, dass Produkte aus Drittstaaten (einschließlich den USA) Standards erfüllen müssen, die denen der EU-Rechtsvorschriften gleichwertig sind.

Die Kommission wird weiterhin ihr Möglichstes tun, um zu garantieren, dass die europäischen Standards und Werte in der Lebensmittelherstellung geschützt werden. Dabei bedient sie sich der in den einschlägigen EU-Rechtsvorschriften vorgesehenen Mittel. Dazu zählen z. B. die Audits durch den Inspektionsdienst der Generaldirektion Gesundheit und Verbraucher, die aktuell und auch in Zukunft sowohl in Drittstaaten als auch in Mitgliedstaaten stattfinden werden.

Dies wird in dem Abschlussbericht der Hochrangigen Arbeitsgruppe anerkannt, in dem deutlich gemacht wird, dass im Bereich des Gesundheits-, Sicherheits‐ und Umweltschutzes das Niveau zu erreichen ist, welches von jeder Seite als angemessen erachtet wird oder ansonsten legitime Regelungsziele einzuhalten sind.

Ziel der Kommission ist es, die Handelsbarrieren, die aufgrund der Funktionsweise unserer Systeme entstanden sind, abzubauen und neue Möglichkeiten für Beschäftigung und Wachstum zu schaffen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001348/13

to the Commission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: EU-USA free trade area — food

For several decades now the idea of a transatlantic single market between the USA and the EU has been mooted. Since then there have been a number of resolutions from the EU on this issue, so far without appreciable success. However, the project now seems to be gathering momentum again. As recently as the end of last year, President Barack Obama of the USA and EU Council President Herman van Rompuy set up a joint working party to reconsider the idea. The Irish Presidency of the EU has also backed the project. In many respects, however, the USA and Europe have very different approaches to important issues of economic and social policy. That being so, I should like to ask the following question:

While Europeans are extremely sceptical about genetically modified foods and feedstuffs, in the USA there are not even GMO warnings on food packaging. The same is true of factory farming and the use of antibiotics (see the WTO dispute on hormone-treated beef). How does the Commission propose, in a common single market with the USA, to protect European standards and values in food production?

Answer given by Mr De Gucht on behalf of the Commission

(19 March 2013)

Any future negotiations of an EU-US trade and investment agreement would not be about compromising the health of European consumers for commercial gain. Basic legislation protecting consumers will not be up for negotiation.

The Commission requires that products from third countries (included US) must comply with standards equivalent to those laid down in the EU legislation.

The Commission will continue to do its outmost to guarantee the protection of European standards and value in food production by means of the tools provided for by the relevant EU legislation, i.e. the audits of the inspection service of the Health and Consumers Directorate General, which are and will be carried out both in third countries and in Member States.

This is recognised by the Final Report of the High Level Working Group which clearly states: ‘…while achieving the levels of health, safety, and environmental protection that each side deems appropriate, or otherwise meeting legitimate regulatory objectives.’

What the Commission hopes to achieve is to minimise trade barriers resulting from the operation of our systems and create new opportunities for jobs and growth.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001349/13

an die Kommission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(8. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Freihandelszone EU/USA — Lobbyismus

Seit Jahrzehnten wird die Idee eines transatlantischen Binnenmarktes zwischen den Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika und der Europäischen Union diskutiert. Seither gab es einige diesbezügliche Entschließungen seitens der EU, bisher ohne nennenswerte Ergebnisse. Nun aber scheint das Projekt wieder Fahrt aufnehmen. So setzten US-Präsident Barack Obama und EU-Ratspräsident Herman van Rompuy bereits Ende des vorigen Jahres eine Arbeitsgruppe ein, die die Idee erneut prüfen soll. Auch die die irische EU-Ratspräsidentschaft steht hinter dem Projekt. In vielerlei Hinsicht pflegen die USA und Europa jedoch einen sehr unterschiedlichen Zugang zu wichtigen wirtschafts‐ und sozialpolitischen Themen. Daraus ergibt sich folgende Frage:

In den USA gibt es eine lange und bedeutende Lobbying-Tradition. Während das Lobbying in Brüssel traditionell konsensorientiert ist, wird Lobbying in den USA auf recht aggressive und äußerst professionalisierte Weise betrieben. In der amerikanischen Bevölkerung sind Lobbying-Praktiken weitgehend akzeptiert. Dagegen stehen europäische Bürger dem sehr viel skeptischer gegenüber. Obschon sie in den letzten Jahren spürbar zugenommen haben, sind Lobbying-Aktivitäten in Brüssel nicht ebenso ausgeprägt wie auf der anderen Seite des Atlantiks. Schätzungen zu Folge arbeiten 20 000 Lobbyisten in Washington, in Brüssel nur halb so viele. Wie gedenkt die Kommission in einem transatlantischen Binnenmarkt einen übermäßigen Einfluss von Lobbyisten auf die gemeinsamen Binnenmarktregeln zu verhindern?

Antwort von Herrn Barroso im Namen der Kommission

(5. April 2013)

Nach Ansicht der Kommission lässt sich eine übermäßige oder unausgewogene Einflussnahme von Interessengruppen auf die Politik am besten dadurch vermeiden, dass während des Entscheidungsprozesses allen Interessengruppen umfassend die Möglichkeit gegeben wird, ihre Standpunkte darzulegen, so dass alle Interessen Gehör finden können. Von den Dienststellen der Kommission wird deshalb erwartet, dass sie gemäß den demokratischen Grundsätzen, insbesondere Artikel 11 EUV, allen Gruppen Gelegenheit geben, ihre Ansichten zu äußern. Zu diesem Zweck werden die Arbeitsprogramme und Fahrpläne („Roadmaps“) der Kommission, die die Interessengruppen geraume Zeit vor Vorlage geplanter Initiativen über diese informieren, veröffentlicht und verbreitet und verschiedene Konsultationsverfahren durchgeführt, darunter über öffentliche Internetinstrumente wie „Ihre Stimme in Europa“. Weitere umfassende Möglichkeiten, an Konsultationen teilzunehmen, bietet als zusätzliche Gewähr das Transparenzregister, da alle registrierten Organisationen und Einzelpersonen (5 500) direkt über Fahrpläne und Konsultationen informiert werden.

Die Mitarbeiter der Kommission erhalten im Rahmen ihrer Einarbeitung und während ihres Berufslebens regelmäßig Schulungen über die berufsethischen Regeln, um sie über ihre Pflichten in Bezug auf Unabhängigkeit, Unparteilichkeit und Objektivität aufzuklären. Zudem haben sie die Möglichkeit, an Ausbildungsmaßnahmen zu Konsultationsstandards teilzunehmen und sich durch einschlägige Leitlinien darüber zu informieren.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001349/13

to the Commission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: EU-USA free trade area — lobbying

For several decades now the idea of a transatlantic single market between the USA and the EU has been mooted. Since then there have been a number of resolutions from the EU on this issue, so far without appreciable success. However, the project now seems to be gathering momentum again. As recently as the end of last year, President Barack Obama of the USA and EU Council President Herman van Rompuy set up a joint working party to reconsider the idea. The Irish Presidency of the EU has also backed the project. In many respects, however, the USA and Europe have very different approaches to important issues of economic and social policy. That being so, I should like to ask the following question:

In the USA there is a long and important tradition of lobbying. Whereas in Brussels lobbying is traditionally geared to consensus, in the USA it is carried out in a very aggressive and extremely professional manner. While lobbying practices are widely accepted among the American public, European citizens are much more sceptical about them. Although they have increased perceptibly in recent years, lobbying activities in Brussels are not as pronounced as on the other side of the Atlantic. It is estimated that 20 000 lobbyists work in Washington, whereas the figure is only half that in Brussels. In a transatlantic single market, how does the Commission propose to prevent lobbyists having an excessive influence on the common rules of the single market?

Answer given by Mr Barroso on behalf of the Commission

(5 April 2013)

The Commission considers that the best way to avoid an excessive or unbalanced influence on policy making from particular interests is to ensure that during the process, the widest opportunity is given to all stakeholders to channel their views so that all interests can be heard. Commission services are therefore expected to ensure that an opportunity is given to all parties, to make their views known, in the full spirit of the provisions on democratic principles and in particular Article 11 TEU. Publicity and dissemination of the Commission working programmes, roadmaps informing stakeholders well in advance about planned initiatives as well as a broad set of consultation processes, including through open Internet instruments such as ‘your voice in Europe’, are contributing to this objective. The Transparency Register offers an additional guarantee enabling a wide range of input to consultations, as all registrants (over 5 500) are directly informed about road maps and consultations.

Trainings on professional ethics are provided to Commission staff on taking up their post and on a regular basis during their careers to raise awareness about their obligations of independence, impartiality and objectivity. In addition, specific training on standards and guidance on consultations to be followed in practice are also offered to the staff.

(Versiunea în limba română)

Întrebarea cu solicitare de răspuns scris P-001350/13

adresată Comisiei

Elena Băsescu (PPE)

(8 februarie 2013)

Subiect: Cadrul de evaluare a aspectelor legate de mediu, climă și energie care să permită extracția de hidrocarburi neconvenționale în condiții de siguranță și securitate

În septembrie 2012, Comisia a publicat 3 studii cu privire la hidrocarburile neconvenționale, accentul punându-se pe gazele de șist. Totuși, concluziile acestor studii nu reprezintă punctul de vedere al Comisiei în problema gazelor de șist.

În programul anual de lucru al Comisiei pentru anul 2013, este prevăzută adoptarea unui Cadru de evaluare a aspectelor legate de mediu, climă și energie care să permită extracția de hidrocarburi neconvenționale în condiții de siguranță și securitate. Însă în programul de lucru al Comisiei nu este specificat dacă inițiativa va fi una legislativă sau fără caracter legislativ.

Răspuns dat de dl Potočnik în numele Comisiei

(27 martie 2013)

Comisia nu poate răspunde în momentul de față întrebărilor ridicate de distinsa membră deoarece acest lucru ar împiedica rezultatele exercițiului de evaluare a impactului aflat în curs și desfășurat în contextul inițiativei Comisiei privind „Un cadrul de evaluare a aspectelor legate de mediu, climă și energie care să permită extracția de hidrocarburi neconvenționale în condiții de siguranță și securitate”, incluse în programul de lucru al Comisiei pentru 2013.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-001350/13

to the Commission

Elena Băsescu (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Framework provisions for assessment of environmental, climate and energy issues so as to facilitate the safe and secure extraction of non-conventional hydrocarbons

In September 2012, the Commission published three studies regarding non-conventional hydrocarbons, focusing on shale gas. However, the conclusions of these studies do not reflect the Commission’s own views regarding shale gas.

In its annual programme of work for 2013 the Commission announces the adoption of framework provisions for the assessment of environmental, climate and energy issues so as to facilitate the safe and secure extraction of non-conventional hydrocarbons but fails to specify whether they will be legislative or non-legislative.

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(27 March 2013)

The Commission can currently not answer the questions raised by the Honourable Member since this would preclude the results of the ongoing Impact Assessment exercise in the context of the Commission initiative included in the Commission Work Programme 2013 for an ‘Environmental, Climate and Energy Assessment Framework to Enable Safe and Secure Unconventional Hydrocarbon Extraction’.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-001351/13

a la Comisión

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) y Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8 de febrero de 2013)

Asunto: Evaluación por parte de la EFSA de los riesgos de los neonicotinoides

La Comisión Europea encargó a la EFSA que evaluara los riesgos del uso de los neonicotinoides clotianidina, imidacloprid y tiametoxam para el tratamiento de semillas. Los efectos de estos plaguicidas se investigaron en colonias de abejas. El resultado del estudio mostró una serie de riesgos para las abejas pero, en algunos casos, por falta de datos o de tiempo, no se pudo concluir la evaluación. Ante estos resultados, la Comisión reaccionó poniendo inmediatamente a debate la prohibición de estas sustancias. Teniendo en cuenta las enormes consecuencias económicas y ecológicas de esta decisión, desearíamos formular las siguientes preguntas a la Comisión:

Respuesta del Sr. Borg en nombre de la Comisión

(27 de marzo de 2013)

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001351/13

an die Kommission

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) und Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Risikobewertung von Neonicotinoiden durch die EFSA

Die EFSA wurde von der Europäischen Kommission mit der Bewertung der Risiken im Zusammenhang mit der Verwendung der Neonicotinoide Clothianidin, Imidacloprid und Thiamethoxam zur Saatgutbehandlung beauftragt. Ermittelt wurden die Auswirkungen auf Bienenvölker. Das Ergebnis der EFSA identifizierte eine Reihe von Risiken für Bienen, in einigen Fällen konnte aufgrund von mangelnden Dateninformationen sowie aufgrund des Zeitdrucks die Risikobewertung nicht abgeschlossen werden. In Reaktion auf diese Erkenntnisse stellte die Kommission rasch ein Verbot dieser Wirkstoffe zur Diskussion. Angesichts der enormen ökonomischen und ökologischen Breitenwirkung einer derartigen Entscheidung stellen sich folgende Fragen an die Kommission:

Antwort von Herrn Borg im Namen der Kommission

(27. März 2013)

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-001351/13

à la Commission

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) et Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8 février 2013)

Objet: Analyse par l'EFSA des risques que présentent les néonicotinoïdes

La Commission européenne a chargé l'EFSA d'analyser les risques que recèlent la clothianidine, l'imidaclopride et le thiaméthoxame, néonicotinoïdes utilisés dans le traitement des semences. L'Autorité a étudié les effets de ces substances sur des colonies d'abeilles. Elle a identifié plusieurs types de risques pour les abeilles, mais une insuffisance des données et le manque de temps ont empêché, dans certains cas, de mener à bien le travail d'analyse. Ces constatations ont conduit la Commission à proposer de débattre sans tarder d'une interdiction de ces substances. Étant donné la portée considérable d'une telle décision des points de vue économique et écologique, il convient de poser à la Commission les questions suivantes:

Réponse donnée par M. Borg au nom de la Commission

(27 mars 2013)

1829/2003. Les agriculteurs peuvent cultiver des OGM — résistants aux insectes, par exemple — si les OGM en question ont reçu une autorisation de mise sur le marché de l'Union sur la foi d'une évaluation approfondie des risques démontrant qu'ils n'ont d'effets néfastes ni sur la santé humaine et animale ni sur l'environnement. La législation relative aux OGM autorise les États membres à appliquer des mesures spécifiques pour assurer la coexistence sur leur territoire de cultures génétiquement modifiées, conventionnelles et organiques.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-001351/13

alla Commissione

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) e Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8 febbraio 2013)

Oggetto: Valutazione da parte dell'EFSA dei rischi dei neonicotinoidi

La Commissione ha incaricato l'Autorità europea per la sicurezza alimentare (EFSA) di effettuare una valutazione dei rischi connessi all'utilizzo di clothianidin, imidacloprid e thiamethoxam, della famiglia dei neonicotinoidi, nel trattamento delle sementi. Nel corso dello studio sono stati esaminati gli effetti di tali sostanze sulle colonie di api. I risultati hanno evidenziato una serie di rischi per le api, ma in alcuni casi l'EFSA non ha potuto portare a termine la valutazione dei rischi a causa della mancanza di dati nonché dei vincoli temporali. Sulla base di tali informazioni, la Commissione ha avviato immediatamente un dibattito circa il divieto di queste sostanze. Considerando l'enorme portata delle conseguenze, a livello economico e ambientale, di una simile decisione, può la Commissione rispondere ai seguenti quesiti:

Risposta di Tonio Borg a nome della Commissione

(27 marzo 2013)

(Magyar változat)

Írásbeli választ igénylő kérdés E-001351/13

a Bizottság számára

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Glattfelder Béla (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) és Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(2013. február 8.)

Tárgy: Az EFSA által a neonikotinoidokról készített kockázatértékelés

Az Európai Bizottság megbízta az Európai Élelmiszerbiztonsági Hatóságot (EFSA), hogy értékelje a klotianidin, imidakloprid és tiametoxám neonikotinoidok vetőmagkezeléshez történő használatával összefüggésben felmerülő kockázatokat. A vizsgálat során a méhcsaládokra gyakorolt hatásokat tanulmányozták. Az EFSA által közölt eredmények egy sor kockázatot tártak fel a méhek tekintetében; a kockázatértékelést néhány esetben a hiányzó adatok, valamint az idő szorítása miatt nem tudták lezárni. Ezekre a felismerésekre reagálva a Bizottság haladéktalanul vitára bocsátotta e hatóanyagok betiltását. Az erre irányuló döntés jelentős gazdasági és ökológiai következményeire tekintettel kérjük a Bizottságot az alábbi kérdések megválaszolására:

Tonio Borg válasza a Bizottság nevében

(2013. március 27.)

(Wersja polska)

Pytanie wymagające odpowiedzi pisemnej E-001351/13

do Komisji

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) oraz Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8 lutego 2013 r.)

Przedmiot: Ocena EFSA dotycząca ryzyka związanego z neonikotynoidami

Komisja Europejska zleciła Europejskiemu Urzędowi ds. Bezpieczeństwa Żywności (EFSA) ocenę ryzyka w związku z zaprawianiem materiału siewnego neonikotynoidami – chlotianidyną, imidachloprydem i tiametoksamem. Stwierdzono oddziaływanie tych substancji na populacje pszczół. W rezultatach uzyskanych przez EFSA zidentyfikowano wielorakie ryzyko dla pszczół, a w niektórych przypadkach oceny ryzyka nie udało się sfinalizować ze względu na brak danych, a także presję czasu. W reakcji na te wyniki Komisja niezwłocznie poddała pod dyskusję zakaz stosowania tych substancji. Ze względu na ogromny gospodarczy i ekologiczny zasięg oddziaływania tego rodzaju decyzji nasuwają się następujące pytania do Komisji:

Odpowiedź udzielona przez komisarza Tonia Borga w imieniu Komisji

(27 marca 2013 r.)

(Versiunea în limba română)

Întrebarea cu solicitare de răspuns scris E-001351/13

adresată Comisiei

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) şi Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8 februarie 2013)

Subiect: Evaluarea de către EFSA a riscului prezentat de neonicotinoide

Autoritatea Europeană pentru Siguranța Alimentară a fost mandatată de către Comisia Europeană să evalueze riscurile legate de utilizarea neonicotinoidelor clothianidin, imidacloprid și thiamethoxam în tratarea semințelor. Au fost identificate consecințele acestor substanțe active asupra coloniilor de albine. Rezultatul EFSA relevă o serie de riscuri pentru populațiile de albine, în anumite cazuri evaluarea riscului neputând fi finalizată atât din cauza informațiilor incomplete, cât și datorită presiunii timpului. Ca urmare a acestor concluzii, Comisia Europeană a pus în discuție neîntârziat interzicerea acestor substanțe active. Având în vedere impactul major al unei astfel de decizii la nivel economic și ecologic, se adresează Comisiei următoarele întrebări:

Răspuns dat de dl Borg în numele Comisiei

(27 martie 2013)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001351/13

to the Commission

Elisabeth Köstinger (PPE), Albert Deß (PPE), Michel Dantin (PPE), Peter Jahr (PPE), Rareş-Lucian Niculescu (PPE), Astrid Lulling (PPE), Elisabeth Jeggle (PPE), Hans-Peter Mayer (PPE), Béla Glattfelder (PPE), Mairead McGuinness (PPE), Christa Klaß (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Czesław Adam Siekierski (PPE) and Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: EFSA risk assessment of neonicotinoids

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was given the task by the Commission of assessing the risks linked to the use of the neonicotinoids Clothianidin, Imidacloprid and Thiamethoxam in treating seeds. The effects of these on bee populations have been established and the results obtained identified a number of risks for bees. In some cases the risk assessment could not be completed, owing to a lack of data and because of time pressure. In response, the Commission raised the question of a ban on these active substances. The wide-ranging economic and environmental impact of such a decision gives rise to the following questions:

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(27 March 2013)

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-001352/13

alla Commissione

Aldo Patriciello (PPE)

(8 febbraio 2013)

Oggetto: Disoccupazione giovanile in aumento nell'area dell'euro

Il Presidente della Commissione Barroso, con il suo discorso tenuto in Plenaria a Strasburgo il giorno 5 febbraio 2013, pone l'accento sull'aumento della disoccupazione giovanile nell'area dell'euro, precisando come la disoccupazione giovanile sia superiore al 25 % in dodici dei ventisette Stati membri.

Secondo il Presidente della Commissione Barroso, la gravità della situazione è ormai palese in gran parte dell'Unione e a tal proposito indica azioni specifiche:

Alla luce di quanto sopra può la Commissione far sapere:

Risposta di László Andor a nome della Commissione

(2 aprile 2013)

La proposta della Commissione relativa al Quadro finanziario pluriennale prevedeva un bilancio leggermente maggiore di quello concordato in sede di Consiglio europeo del 7-8 febbraio. Tuttavia, il Consiglio europeo ha anche riconosciuto che l'accento posto dalla Commissione sulla necessità di affrontare la disoccupazione giovanile era giustificato. Pertanto il Consiglio europeo ha deciso altresì di varare una Iniziativa a favore dell'occupazione giovanile (Youth Employment Initiative) a sostegno delle misure enunciate nel Pacchetto per l'occupazione giovanile (78), in particolare la Garanzia per i giovani, con un finanziamento di 6 miliardi di EUR. Inoltre, il Fondo sociale europeo (79) prevede, per il periodo 2014-2020, diverse altre possibili attività per i giovani e l'occupazione giovanile. È essenziale pertanto che una quota minima del 25 % del bilancio destinato alla politica di coesione sia consacrata al FSE come proposto dalla Commissione e in proposito è fondamentale il sostegno del Parlamento.

Al di là di ciò, l'Analisi annuale della crescita 2013 (80) evidenzia che si dovrebbe attribuire priorità all'investimento nell'istruzione e che si dovrebbe mantenere o rafforzare la copertura e l'efficacia dei servizi per l'occupazione e delle politiche attive del mercato del lavoro.

Nell'ambito del Semestre europeo vengono anche promosse riforme strutturali per affrontare la segregazione del mercato del lavoro e ridurre la disoccupazione giovanile. La Commissione europea valuterà le misure adottate dagli Stati membri per incentivare la crescita e l'occupazione e proporrà, se del caso, raccomandazioni specifiche per paese in tema di disoccupazione giovanile.

La Commissione europea sta attualmente raccogliendo idee per realizzare un'autentica UEM (81), ad esempio valorizzando le potenzialità di coordinamento della politica occupazionale e sociale nell'ambito dell'UEM. Il Presidente Van Rompuy, in stretta cooperazione con il Presidente Barroso, presenterà entro giugno 2013 un ruolino di marcia specifico corredato di scadenze precise per il completamento dell'UEM.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001352/13

to the Commission

Aldo Patriciello (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Youth unemployment on the rise in the euro area

In his address to Parliament in plenary sitting in Strasbourg on 5 February 2013, the Commission President, Mr Barroso, focused on the growing youth unemployment in the euro area, pointing out that the youth unemployment rate was now higher than 25% in 12 of the 27 Member States.

According to Commission President Barroso, the gravity of the situation is now clear in most of the EU and, in this regard, he mentioned the following specific measures:

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 2013)

The Commission’s proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework foresaw a slightly higher budget than what the European Council of 7-8 February has agreed to. Nevertheless, the European Council also recognised that the emphasis put by the Commission on the critical need to address youth unemployment was right. Hence, the European Council also decided to create a Youth Employment Initiative in support of measures set out in the Youth Employment Package (82), in particular the Youth Guarantee, with a funding of EUR 6 billion. Furthermore, the European Social Fund (83) for the period 2014-2020 foresees a number of other possible activities targeting youth and youth employment. Hence, it is critical that a minimum share of 25% of the budget allocated to the Cohesion policy is dedicated to the ESF as proposed by the Commission and the Parliament’s support is essential in this regard.

Besides, the 2013 Annual Growth Survey (84) points out that investments in education should be prioritised and the coverage and effectiveness of employment services and active labour market policies maintained or reinforced.

Through the European Semester, structural reforms are also promoted to address labour market segregation and reduce youth unemployment. The European Commission will assess Member States' measures to boost growth and jobs and propose, where needed, country-specific recommendations regarding youth unemployment.

The European Commission is currently elaborating ideas regarding the genuine EMU (85), e.g. reinforcing the scope for employment and social policy coordination in the EMU. President Van Rompuy, in close cooperation with President Barroso, will present a specific and time-bound roadmap for the completion of the EMU by June 2013.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001353/13

to the Commission

Struan Stevenson (ECR)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Invoking the precautionary principle for the health impacts of wind turbines

The precautionary principle is detailed in Article 191 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and ‘may be invoked when a phenomenon, product or process may have a dangerous effect, identified by a scientific and objective evaluation, if this evaluation does not allow the risk to be determined with sufficient certainty.’

Accordingly, the Commission states that the precautionary principle may only be invoked when the following three preliminary conditions have been met:

In its answer to Written Question E-010250/2012, the Commission highlighted that uncertainty still exists over the impacts of industrial wind turbines on human health. The Commission also stated that it was evaluating the potentially adverse effects in conjunction with the WHO, with a particular focus on a recent peer-reviewed report, which found that wind turbines do have a negative impact on human health. Therefore, all three of the preliminary conditions needed to invoke the precautionary principle have been met.

However, the Commission website states that ‘in most cases, European consumers and the associations which represent them must demonstrate the danger associated with a procedure or a product placed on the market, except for medicines, pesticides and food additives.’

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(5 April 2013)

Every citizen has the right to write to and get a direct answer from the Commission.

As explained in the Commission's previous response to Written Question E-010250/2012, the wind turbine noise issue is being considered by the Commission in the broader context of the noise policy review (86). Citizens' views were collected in the context of the recent public consultation (87). Noise from individual wind turbines and defining local measures that might be required is in the competence of the national or local authority concerned.

(Tekstas lietuvių kalba)

Klausimas, į kurį atsakoma raštu, Nr. E-001354/13

Komisijai

Justas Vincas Paleckis (S&D)

(2013 m. vasario 8 d.)

Tema: Vyresnio amžiaus žmonių diskriminavimas darbo rinkoje

Vyresnių nei 55 metų žmonių užimtumas, ypač ekonominei krizei krečiant Europą, tapo rimta problema Europos Sąjungoje. Kaip matyti iš naujausio „Eurobarometro“ tyrimo, daugiau nei pusė (54 %) europiečių įsitikinę, kad 55 metų ir vyresnis amžius – trūkumas ieškant darbo. Apie 45 % europiečių mano, jog diskriminavimas dėl vyresnio amžiaus paplitęs jų šalyje. Tačiau esama didelių skirtumų tarp ES šalių narių: diskriminavimas dėl vyresnio amžiaus, apklaustųjų nuomone, labiausiai paplitęs Vengrijoje (75 %), Čekijoje (68 %), Slovakijoje (66 %) ir kitose naujosiose ES šalyse, o mažiausiai Airijoje (19 %), Liuksemburge ir Danijoje (32 %).

Suprantama, dabar pagrindinė problema yra aukštas nedarbo lygis beveik visose ES šalyse ir ypač jaunimo nedarbas. Bet neturėtų būti pamiršti ir vyresnio amžiaus žmonės. Kokių priemonių imasi ar ketina imtis Komisija, kad šalys, kuriose aukštas diskriminavimo dėl amžiaus lygis, sudarytų geresnes sąlygas įsidarbinti vyresniems žmonėms?

V. Reding atsakymas Komisijos vardu

(2013 m. balandžio 8 d.)

Komisija pagal turimus įgaliojimus visapusiškai siekia užkirsti kelią diskriminacijai dėl amžiaus užimtumo srityje, tuo tikslu vykdo įvairius veiksmus, pvz., informavimo apie kovą su stereotipais kampanijas (88), ir visose ES politikos srityse (įskaitant užimtumo ir socialinės įtraukties politiką) taiko nediskriminavimo principą, ypatingą dėmesį skirdama šalims, kuriose, kaip manoma, diskriminavimas dėl amžiaus paplitęs labiau. Be to, siekdama kovoti su diskriminavimu dėl amžiaus darbe Komisija nacionalinėms valdžios institucijoms ir pilietinei visuomenei teikia finansinę paramą pagal programą PROGRESS.

Direktyva 2007/78/EB saugoma nuo diskriminavimo dėl amžiaus užimtumo ir profesinėje srityje. Dėl amžiaus diskriminuoti asmenys gali imtis teisės gynimo priemonių savo valstybėje narėje. Komisija atidžiai stebi, kad direktyva nustatytas diskriminavimo dėl amžiaus draudimas būtų tinkamai perkeltas į valstybių narių teisę ir teisingai taikomas, ir nedvejodama imsis reikiamų veiksmų, kad užtikrintų, kad direktyva būtų tinkamai perkelta ir taikoma nacionaliniu lygiu.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001354/13

to the Commission

Justas Vincas Paleckis (S&D)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Discrimination against older people in the job market

Employing people over the age of 55 has become a serious problem in the European Union, particularly as the economic crisis affects Europe. The most recent Eurobarometer survey shows that, for over half of Europeans (54%), being 55 or older is a disadvantage when looking for a job. Some 45% of Europeans believe that discrimination on the grounds of age is widespread in their country. However, there are considerable discrepancies between the Member States: in the opinion of the people surveyed, discrimination because of age is most widespread in Hungary (75%), the Czech Republic (68%), Slovakia (66%) and the other new Member States, and least common in Ireland (19%), Luxembourg and Denmark (32%).

It is obvious that the main problem now is the high level of unemployment in almost all EU Member States and in particular, youth unemployment. However, we should also not forget older people. What steps is the Commission taking or intending to take to ensure that those countries, where discrimination on the grounds of age is most widespread, create conditions which are more favourable to employing older people?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(8 April 2013)

The Commission is fully committed within the boundaries of its competences to prevent age discrimination in employment through different actions such as awareness raising campaigns to fight against stereotypes (89) and mainstreaming non-discrimination in all EU policies, (including employment and social inclusion policies) with special focus on the countries where age discrimination is perceived as more widespread. The Commission also provides financial support to national authorities and civil society to combat age discrimination at work through PROGRESS programme.

Directive 2000/78/EC protects against age discrimination in employment and occupation. If people have been discriminated on grounds of age they may take the legal remedies available in their national Member State. The Commission is closely monitoring the correct transposition and application of the prohibition of age discrimination as laid down in directive in the Member States and will not hesitate to take the necessary steps to ensure that the directive is correctly transposed and applied at national level.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-001355/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Georgios Papastamkos (PPE)

(8 Φεβρουαρίου 2013)

Θέμα: Έννομη προστασία καταχωρισμένων ΠΟΠ/ΠΓΕ σε τρίτες χώρες

Στις 3.1.13 τέθηκε σε ισχύ το αναθεωρημένο ρυθμιστικό πλαίσιο της ΕΕ για τα συστήματα ποιότητος των γεωργικών προϊόντων (Κανονισμός (EE) αριθ. 1151/2012 της 21.11.2012, ΕΕ L 343 της 14.12.2012), το οποίο στοχεύει, μεταξύ άλλων, στην ενδυνάμωση του καθεστώτος προστασίας των Προστατευομένων Ονομασιών Προέλευσης (ΠΟΠ) και Γεωγραφικών Ενδείξεων (ΠΓΕ). Επιπλέον, η Επιτροπή Γεωργίας του ΕΚ ενέκρινε νομοθετικό ψήφισμα Έκθεση Bové A7-0279/2012, 21.9.2012 επί της πρότασης τροποποίησης του Κανονισμού (ΕΚ) αριθ. 3/2008 σχετικά με ενέργειες ενημέρωσης και προώθησης υπέρ των γεωργικών προϊόντων στην εσωτερική αγορά και στις τρίτες χώρες COM(2011)0663. Βάσει εγκριθείσης τροπολογίας μου, ως προς τα ενωσιακά προϊόντα ΠΟΠ/ΠΓΕ και ΕΠΙΠ, προστίθενται στις επιλέξιμες ενέργειες η παρακολούθηση της συμμόρφωσης τρίτων χωρών και η υποστήριξη των ενδιαφερομένων μερών για την κατοχύρωση της έννομης προστασίας σε τρίτες χώρες και την αντιμετώπιση ζητημάτων σφετερισμού.

Ζητούμενο παραμένει η αποτελεσματικότερη προστασία των προϊόντων που υπάγονται σε συστήματα ποιότητας έναντι των εμπορικών εταίρων της ΕΕ, στο πλαίσιο των διμερών και διαπεριφερειακών εμπορικών συμφωνιών, καθώς και σε επίπεδο Παγκοσμίου Οργανισμού Εμπορίου (συμφωνία TRIPs).

Σύμφωνα με στοιχεία ελληνικών αντιπροσωπευτικών φορέων, σε αγορές εκτός ΕΕ καταγράφονται ανησυχητικά φαινόμενα άμεσης ή έμμεσης χρήσης, ή παραποίησης καταχωρισμένων ονομασιών ελληνικών προϊόντων (π.χ. φέτα), καθώς και χρήσης σημάτων και άλλων διακριτικών στην ετικέτα, τα οποία παραπέμπουν στη δήθεν ελληνική προέλευση των προϊόντων (π.χ. γιαούρτι).

Ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Cioloş εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(25 Μαρτίου 2013)

Την ευθύνη για τη διασφάλιση, στο έδαφος της ΕΕ, της προστασίας των γεωγραφικών ενδείξεων και των ονομασιών προέλευσης, που καταχωρίζονται βάσει του κανονισμού (ΕΕ) αριθ. 1151/2012 φέρουν τα κράτη μέλη, τα οποία οφείλουν να ορίσουν την αρμόδια αρχή ή τις αρμόδιες αρχές που είναι υπεύθυνες για τους ελέγχους τόσο στο επίπεδο παραγωγής όσο και στο επίπεδο της εμπορίας. Οι γεωγραφικές ενδείξεις που καταχωρίζονται δυνάμει του κανονισμού (ΕΕ) αριθ. 1151/2012 υπόκεινται σε σύστημα ελέγχου σύμφωνα με τον κανονισμό (ΕΕ) αριθ. 882/2004 (90).

Η προστασία μιας ονομασίας στην ΕΕ δεν οδηγεί αυτομάτως στην προστασία της ονομασίας σε τρίτες χώρες. Για τον λόγο αυτό, η Επιτροπή καταβάλλει προσπάθειες, επί σειρά ετών, προκειμένου να βελτιώσει την προστασία των Προστατευόμενων Ονομασιών Προέλευσης (ΠΟΠ) και των Προστατευόμενων Γεωγραφικών Ενδείξεων (ΠΓΕ) στις τρίτες χώρες μέσω πολυμερών διαπραγματεύσεων και μέσω ενός διαρκώς αυξανόμενου αριθμού διμερών συμφωνιών με τους εμπορικούς εταίρους μας, είτε μέσω αυτοτελών συμφωνιών είτε στο πλαίσιο ευρύτερων συμφωνιών ελεύθερων συναλλαγών.

Στο πλαίσιο των διαπραγματεύσεων του ΠΟΕ, η ΕΕ επιδιώκει τη βελτίωση της προστασίας των γεωγραφικών ενδείξεων μέσω της δημιουργίας ενός δεσμευτικού πολυμερούς μητρώου που θα διευκολύνει τη προστασία των γεωγραφικών ενδείξεων και μέσω της επέκτασης της επιπρόσθετης προστασίας, η οποία επί του παρόντος παρέχεται μόνο για τις γεωγραφικές ενδείξεις οίνων και οινοπνευματωδών ποτών βάσει του άρθρου 23 της συμφωνίας TRIPS προστασία ανεξάρτητα από το εάν το κοινό παραπλανάται όσον αφορά τη γεωγραφική καταγωγή του προϊόντος), στις γεωγραφικές ενδείξεις όλων των προϊόντων.

Πληροφορίες σχετικά με την αξία των γεωργικών προϊόντων και των τροφίμων που καλύπτονται από ΠΟΠ και ΠΓΕ, από μεμονωμένα κράτη μέλη και φορείς, είναι διαθέσιμες στον δικτυακό τόπο της Επιτροπής http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/quality/schemes/index_en.htm

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001355/13

to the Commission

Georgios Papastamkos (PPE)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Legal protection in third countries of registered designations of origin (PDO) and geographical indications (PGI)

On 3 January 2013, the amended EU regulatory framework provisions on quality schemes for agricultural products designed to ensure more effective protection for designations of origin (PDO) and geographical indications (PGI) entered into force (Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of 21 November 2012, OJ L 343, 14.12.2012). In addition, the EP Committee on Agriculture adopted a draft legislative resolution drawn up by José Bové (A7-0279/2012 of 21 September 2012) on the proposal for a regulation amending Council Regulation (EC) No 3/2008 on information provision and promotion measures for agricultural products on the internal market and in third countries (COM(2011)0663). Following the adoption of my amendments regarding PDO/PGI and TSG products in the EU, the scope of the provisions was extended to include the monitoring of compliance by third countries, assistance in registering protected designations in third countries and preventing any misuse thereof.

There still remains open the question of more effective protection for products governed by quality systems vis-à-vis EU trading partners under bilateral and interregional trade agreements and within the framework of the World Trade Organisation (TRIPS agreements).

According to the Greek organisations representing those concerned, the direct or indirect use or misuse of registered Greek designations (for example, feta) and the use of trademarks or other insignia on labels, implying that the products in question (for example, yoghurts) are of Greek origin, is assuming alarming proportions on third country markets.

In view of this:

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(25 March 2013)

Responsibility for ensuring protection within the territory of the EU of geographical indications and designations of origin registered through Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 lies with Member States who have to designate the competent authority or authorities responsible for controls both at the level of production and marketing. Geographical indications registered by virtue of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 are subject to a monitoring system in line with Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 (91).

Protection of a name in the EU does not automatically lead to protection in third countries. For many years, the Commission has therefore striven to improve the protection of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGI) in third countries through multilateral negotiations and through an increasing number of bilateral agreements with our trade partners, either through stand-alone agreements or as part of wider Free Trade Agreements.

In the WTO negotiations, the EU seeks to improve protection of geographical indications through the creation of a binding multilateral register facilitating protection of geographical indications and the extension of the additional protection currently only available for geographical indications for wines and spirits under Article 23 of the TRIPS Agreement (i.e. protection notably independent of whether the public is misled as to the geographical origin of the good) to geographical indications for all products.

Data on the value of PDO and PGI agricultural products and foodstuffs, by individual Member States and by sectors, are available on the Commission website http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/quality/schemes/index_en.htm.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001356/13

an die Kommission (Vizepräsidentin / Hohe Vertreterin)

Ismail Ertug (S&D)

(8. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: VP/HR — Frauenrechte in Afghanistan

Die Rechte der Frauen in Afghanistan haben sich seit dem Sturz der Taliban deutlich verbessert. Viele Mädchen und Frauen haben Zugang zu Bildung bekommen, welches für uns Europäer das höchste Gut und gleichzeitig selbstverständlich ist.

Viele afghanische Frauen haben große Angst vor der Zeit nach dem Abzug der Nato-Truppen im nächsten Jahr. Die Organisation Human Rights Watch stellt in ihrem Jahresbericht 2013 in seiner Zusammenfassung zu Afghanistan fest:

Afghans feel enormous anxiety as the 2014 deadline for withdrawing international combat forces from Afghanistan looms and powerbrokers jockey for position. The Afghan government’s failure to respond effectively to violence against women undermines the already-perilous state of women’s rights. President Hamid Karzai’s endorsement in March of a statement by a national religious council calling women „ secondary, “ prohibiting violence against women only for „ un-Islamic “ reasons, and calling for segregating women and girls in education, employment, and in public, raises questions about the government’s commitment to protecting women

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

(27. März 2013)

Die Schlussfolgerungen der Bonner Konferenz und der im Juli 2012 in Tokio vereinbarte Rahmen für gegenseitige Rechenschaftspflicht bilden den Rahmen für unsere Zusammenarbeit in den kommenden Jahren. Die künftige Hilfe wird sich an den eigenen nationalen Prioritätsprogrammen Afghanistans, darunter dem Programm in Bildungsbereich, ausrichten. Afghanistan muss selbst Verantwortung für die eigene Entwicklung und Sicherheit übernehmen.

Die EU wird weiterhin die afghanischen Behörden dazu drängen, ihren Verpflichtungen nachzukommen. Diese gilt insbesondere für den Bereich der Menschenrechte, einschließlich der Rechte von Frauen und Mädchen, für die der Zugang zu Bildung eine wichtige Rolle spielen wird. In dem Kooperationsabkommen zwischen der EU und Afghanistan, über das derzeit verhandelt wird, wird die Menschenrechtsdimension ein wesentliches Element bilden. Darüber hinaus wird das Abkommen eine Reihe grundlegender Bestimmungen zu Frauen und Kindern enthalten.

Die EU ist entschlossen, die Entwicklung Afghanistans während der Transformationsdekade zu unterstützen. Dies umfasst auch den Bildungssektor, in dem eine Reihe von EU-Mitgliedstaaten bereits aktiv ist. Afghanistan profitiert auch von der Globalen Partnerschaft für Bildung, die im Falle Afghanistans von Dänemark koordiniert wird. Für den Zeitraum 2011-2013 hat die EU einen Beitrag in Höhe 31,8 Mio. EUR zu diesem globalen Fonds geleistet.

Wie in der Agenda für den Wandel und dem Aktionsplan zur Stärkung der Präsenz der EU in Afghanistan (2009) vorgesehen, wird die EU sich zunehmend an den Grundsätzen der Arbeitsteilung orientieren, damit die Gelder dorthin fließen, wo sie am meisten gebraucht werden und die größtmögliche Wirkung erzielen. Die allgemeine Sicherheitslage wird jedoch ein Schlüsselfaktor bei der Entscheidung darüber sein, wie die EU-Hilfe durchgeführt werden kann.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001356/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Ismail Ertug (S&D)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Women's rights in Afghanistan

There has been a significant improvement in Afghan women's rights since the fall of the Taliban. Many girls and women have gained access to education, which we Europeans both regard as the greatest asset and take as a matter of course.

Many Afghan women are very afraid about what will happen after NATO troops are withdrawn next year. In its 2013 report, the organisation Human Rights Watch summarises the situation for Afghanistan as follows:

‘Afghans feel enormous anxiety as the 2014 deadline for withdrawing international combat forces from Afghanistan looms and powerbrokers jockey for position. The Afghan government’s failure to respond effectively to violence against women undermines the already-perilous state of women’s rights. President Hamid Karzai’s endorsement in March of a statement by a national religious council calling women “secondary”, prohibiting violence against women only for “un-Islamic” reasons, and calling for segregating women and girls in education, employment, and in public, raises questions about the government’s commitment to protecting women.’

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

(27 March 2013)

The conclusions of the Bonn conference and the Tokyo Mutual Accountability Framework of July 2012 set the framework for our cooperation in the coming years. The future assistance will be oriented towards Afghanistan's own National Priority Programmes, including the one on Education. Afghanistan must take its own responsibilities both for development and for security.

The EU will continue to press the Afghan authorities to implement their commitments in full, in particular in the field of human rights, including the rights of women and girls, for whom access to education will be an important element. In the EU-Afghanistan Cooperation Agreement currently being negotiated, the human rights dimension will be an essential element and the Agreement will contain a number of core provisions on women and children.

The EU is committed to support Afghanistan's development throughout the coming ‘decade of transformation’. This includes the education sector where a number of EU Member States are actively involved. Afghanistan also benefits from the Global Partnership for Education, coordinated by Denmark in case of Afghanistan. For the period 2011-2013 the EU has contributed EUR 31.8m to this Global Fund.

The EU will increasingly follow the principles of division of labour as foreseen in the Agenda for Change and the 2009 Action Plan on strengthening the EU's presence in Afghanistan, so as to target funds where they are most needed and with the greatest possible impact. The overall security situation will, however, be a key factor in determining how EU assistance can be implemented.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001357/13

to the Commission

Marta Andreasen (EFD)

(8 February 2013)

Subject: Payments by the Commission to lobbyists

On 31 January 2013 I received in my pigeon-hole (as did other MEPs) a document from the director of an organisation called ‘Transport and Environment’, lobbying for a vote in plenary in favour of a report by the Committee on the Environment on measures on vehicle noise.

The document did not reveal what ‘Transport and Environment’ was, but I discovered it is a Brussels-based NGO, whose website discreetly acknowledges funding support from the Commission.

A link to the EU Transparency Register reveals that in 2010, of this organisation’s total budget of EUR 1 345 662, the Commission’s contribution was EUR 245 079 (over 18 %) and that the total public-sector contribution was in excess of 33 %. Astonishingly, only EUR 35 175 (2.6 %) came from the organisation’s membership. The Commission’s own transparency information for 2010 confirms this amount as being an operating grant from Commission budget line 07 03 07: LIFE+ (Financial Instrument for the Environment 2007 to 2013).

‘Transport and Environment’ had been open about who these people are and how they are funded?

‘Transport and Environment’ is compliant with the stated aims of the budget line from which it was paid?

Answer given by Mr Barroso on behalf of the Commission

(5 April 2013)

‘Transport and Environment’ as an NGO in the Transparency register is acceptable.

‘Transport and Environment’, a registered organisation. The Honourable Member is thus invited to use this instrument when she wishes to check on an organisation engaged in lobbying activities.

‘operational activities of NGOs primarily active in protecting and enhancing the environment at European level and involved in the development and implementation of Community policy and legislation’. In implementation of this regulation, the Commission organises yearly open calls for proposals in which Transport and Environment has been selected for co-funding of its activities. (http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ngos/index_en.htm).

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung P-001358/13

an die Kommission

Anja Weisgerber (PPE)

(11. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Beihilferechtliche Genehmigung der Steuerentlastung für Energieerzeugnisse

Auf Grundlage und unter den Bedingungen der Richtlinie 2003/96/EG können Mitgliedstaaten bestimmte Energieträger steuerlich privilegieren. Um eine Verzerrung des Wettbewerbs im Binnenmarkt zu verhindern, bedarf dies jedoch einer Genehmigung seitens der Europäischen Kommission. Zum 31. März 2012 ist die beihilferechtliche Genehmigung der Steuerentlastung für Energieerzeugnisse, die in Anlagen zur gekoppelten Erzeugung von Kraft und Wärme eingesetzt werden, ausgelaufen. Die Steuerbegünstigung für KWK-Anlagen ist daher im nationalen Recht neu geregelt worden, in Deutschland findet sich diese Regelung in den §§ 53a und 53b Energiesteuergesetz.

Die Neuregelung im nationalen Recht tritt jedoch erst nach der Erteilung der erforderlichen beihilferechtlichen Genehmigung durch die Europäische Kommission in Kraft. Diese Genehmigung hat die Kommission derzeit noch nicht erteilt, obwohl die alte Fassung seit dem 1. April 2012 außer Kraft ist.

Daher fordere ich die Kommission zur Stellungnahme bezüglich folgender Punkte auf:

Antwort von Herrn Almunia im Namen der Kommission

(18. März 2013)

Die deutsche Steuerentlastung für Energieerzeugnisse, die in Anlagen zur gekoppelten Erzeugung von Kraft und Wärme eingesetzt werden (insbesondere die §§ 53a und 53b EnergieStG) ist seit ihrer Anmeldung bei der Kommission im Jahre 2001 (N449/2001) geändert worden. Ferner haben sich die Kriterien zur Bewertung von Beihilfen für die Kraft-Wärme-Kopplung gegenüber jenen geändert, die galten, als die Kommission die Steuerentlastung am 13. Februar 2002 genehmigte (jetzt Abschnitt 3.1.7.2 der Leitlinien der Gemeinschaft für staatliche Umweltschutzbeihilfen, ABl. C 82 vom 1.4.2008, S. 1). Folglich musste die Kommission die deutsche Steuerentlastung für Energieerzeugnisse, die in Anlagen zur gekoppelten Erzeugung von Kraft und Wärme eingesetzt werden, einer ganz neuen Prüfung nach den aktuellen EU-Beihilfevorschriften unterziehen.

Der Beschluss der Kommission zur Genehmigung der Steuerentlastung nach § 53a EnergieStG wurde am 21. Februar 2013 angenommen. Deutschland macht geltend, dass § 53b EnergieStG in den Anwendungsbereich des Artikels 25 der Allgemeinen Gruppenfreistellungsverordnung (AGVO — Verordnung (EG) Nr. 800/2008 der Kommission vom 6. August 2008, ABl. L 214 vom 9.8.2008, S. 3) fällt. Sollte dies der Fall sein, dann kann Deutschland im Einklang mit Artikel 3 der AGVO den § 53b EnergieStG direkt ohne vorherige Anmeldung bei der Kommission anwenden.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-001358/13

to the Commission

Anja Weisgerber (PPE)

(11 February 2013)

Subject: Approval under state aid rules for tax relief on energy products

Under Directive 2003/96/EC, and subject to its conditions, Member States may grant tax relief for specific sources of energy. However, in order to prevent distortions of competition in the internal market, this requires approval from the Commission. The approval under state aid rules for tax relief on energy products used in cogeneration plants expired on 31 March 2012. New rules on tax relief for cogeneration plants have therefore been adopted in domestic law; in Germany these rules are to be found in Sections 53a and 53b of the Energy Taxation Act.

However, the new domestic law rules will only enter into force after the necessary approval under state aid rules has been granted by the Commission. The Commission has not yet granted such approval, even though the old approval has been invalid since 1 April 2012.

I should therefore like to ask the Commission:

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(18 March 2013)

The German tax relief for energy products used in cogeneration plants (in particular Articles 53a and 53b of the Energy Taxation Act) has been amended since it was notified to the Commisison in 2001 (N449/2001). Also, the assessment criteria for aid to the production of energy from cogeneration plants have changed (now Section 3.1.7.2. of the Community Guidelines on State Aid for Environmental Protection, OJ C 82, 1.4.2008, p. 1) compared with those applicable when the Commisison approved the tax relief on 13 February 2002. As a consequence, the Commisison had to make a new, complete assessment of the German tax relief for energy products used in cogeneration plants under the current state aid rules.

As far as Article 53a of the Energy Taxation Act is concerned, the decision approving the tax relief was adopted on 21 February 2013. As far as Article 53b of the Energy Taxation Act is concerned, Germany has indicated that this article falls within the scope of Article 25 of the General Block Exemption Regulation (Commission Regulation 800/2008 of 6 August 2008, OJ L 214 of 9.8.2008, p. 3). If the measure is covered by the General Block Exemption Regulation, Germany has the possibility, in line with Article 3 of the General Block Exemption Regulation, to apply Article 53b of the Energy Taxation Act directly without having to notify it to the Commission.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung P-001359/13

an die Kommission

Martin Ehrenhauser (NI)

(11. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Europäische Umweltagentur (EUA), insbesondere der Fall ihrer Exekutivdirektorin

Beim Entlastungsverfahren 2010 sind Schwächen im Management der Europäischen Umweltagentur zu Tage getreten. Hierzu zählen die Verletzungen von Vorschriften über die öffentliche Auftragsvergabe sowie nicht belegte Dienstreise‐ und Reisekosten. Wegen dieser Befunde hat das Parlament im Mai 2012 die Entlastung der EUA für das Haushaltsjahr 2010 aufgeschoben, der Haushaltskontrollausschuss hat die Entlastung im September 2012 verweigert; sie wurde im Oktober 2012 allerdings lediglich mit einer sehr knappen Mehrheit angenommen.

Die Stelle des Exekutivdirektors der EUA war 2013 neu zu besetzen. Im Dezember 2012 wählte der EUA-Verwaltungsrat einen neuen Exekutivdirektor der EUA mit Wirkung zum 1. Juni 2013. Allerdings hat die amtierende Exekutivdirektorin trotz ihres zweifelhaften Managements der Agentur ihre Position behalten, statt vorübergehend durch den stellvertretenden Direktor ersetzt zu werden.

Antwort von Herrn Šefčovič im Namen der Kommission

(5. April 2013)

2./3. Die Vorschriften für die Berechnung und Festsetzung des Ruhegehalts sind im Statut festgelegt. Für Zeitbedienstete, die bei oder vor Ablauf ihres Vertrags aus dem Dienst ausscheiden, gelten dieselben Bestimmungen.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-001359/13

to the Commission

Martin Ehrenhauser (NI)

(11 February 2013)

Subject: European Environment Agency (EEA) — the case of the Executive Director

The 2010 discharge procedure revealed managerial weaknesses in the European Environment Agency (EEA). They included breaches of public procurement rules, and missions and travel expenses not accounted for. In May 2012, on the basis of the findings of the procedure, the European Parliament postponed the EEA’s discharge for the financial year 2010. Parliament’s Committee on Budgetary Control refused to grant discharge to the EEA in September 2012. The discharge was, however, granted by a very slight majority in October 2012.

The position of the EEA’s Executive Director was due for renewal in 2013. In December 2012, the EEA Management Board selected a new Executive Director, to take office from 1 June 2013. However, the current Executive Director has remained in charge, despite her questionable management of the agency, instead of being provisionally replaced by the Deputy Director.

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(5 April 2013)

2-3. The rules governing the calculation and settlement of the retirement pension are set out in the Staff regulations. The same rules apply to temporary staff who leave at the end of their contract and those who leave before the end of that contract.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-001360/13

to the Commission

Jim Higgins (PPE)

(11 February 2013)

Subject: Food labelling and horsemeat

Following the recent ingredients scandals affecting Ireland, the UK, Poland, France and probably other Member States, does the Commission intend to take action?

With the free movement of goods and services — brought about by the Maastricht Treaty — easier than ever before, is the Commission of the view that better traceability is needed, as well as minimum sentences for those involved in food crimes?

Does the Commission think that minimum pricing and profit returns for farmers would eliminate the race to the bottom, in terms of quality, by large supermarket chains such as Tesco, Dunnes and Aldi, which demand low-cost goods from suppliers?

Does the Commission feel that more should be done to let hard-pressed consumers know that what is packaged as nice healthy food can actually be full of unhealthy ingredients?

Does the Commission feel that, as a general rule, the public needs to be better informed about the risks of eating processed foods?

What will the Commission do to ensure that regular DNA testing is carried out on food products?

Can the Commission confirm that DNA testing is not a requirement in all EU Member States at present?

Can the Commission state what obligations Member States are under in terms of testing?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(18 March 2013)

Following the recent findings of mislabelled food, the Commission adopted a recommendation on a coordinated control plan (92) calling for EU-wide controls on foods marketed as containing beef to detect, through DNA testing, fraudulent labelling, and on horse meat intended for human consumption to detect phenylbutazone.

There is an extensive body of Union rules to ensure that food is safe. Traceability is compulsory for food business operators at all stages of the food chain. These existing traceability systems made possible that the extent and origin of the recent fraud has been revealed. The Union food safety and labelling requirements (93), when correctly enforced, are sufficient to ensure consumer safety and information.

Member States are responsible for the enforcement of Union law and shall verify, through official controls, compliance by the operators. The requirements for mandatory official testing vary according to the species from which meat is obtained (94). However, no mandatory DNA testing of meat is required by Union legislation. Member States are also entitled to determine the level and type of penalties to be imposed for infringements of food legislation.

Following its Green paper, the Commission will launch an impact assessment on best options to tackle unfair trading practices (95). However, minimum pricing and profit returns for farmers would not avoid fraud.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001361/13

an die Kommission

Hans-Peter Martin (NI)

(11. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Schutz von Computerdaten europäischer Bürger vor Zugriff aus den USA

Ein Großteil der weltweit tätigen Internetfirmen kommt aus den Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika.

Medienberichten zufolge unterschrieb der amerikanische Präsident Barack Obama im Januar 2013 die Verlängerung eines Rechtsakts („Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act“) und einen Zusatz („FISAAA 1881a“) dazu. Dieses Gesetz berechtigt die US-Sicherheitsbehörden auf Daten von Nicht-US-Bürgern zuzugreifen, die bei amerikanischen Unternehmen gespeichert sind. Diese Regelung gilt selbst dann, wenn sich der Serverstandort außerhalb der USA befindet.

Dies bedeutet Analysten zufolge, dass US-Behörden ohne gerichtliche Anordnung auf private Daten europäischer Bürger zugreifen dürfen, selbst wenn sich diese Daten physisch in der EU befinden.

Antwort von Frau Reding im Namen der Kommission

(12. April 2013)

Die Kommission kennt die Bedenken angesichts der extraterritorialen Anwendung fremden Rechts auf Datenverarbeitungsvorgänge im Hoheitsgebiet der Mitgliedstaaten. Dieses Recht kann gegen Völkerrecht verstoßen und Bürger in der Union in ihren Grundrechten beeinträchtigen.

Die Kommission steht auf dem Standpunkt, dass amerikanische Strafverfolgungsbehörden, nach deren Erkenntnissen sich von ihnen benötigte Informationen an einem Ort außerhalb ihrer Hoheitsgewalt befinden, die vorhandenen Kooperationsmechanismen mit EU-Mitgliedstaaten, in denen sich diese Daten befinden, nutzen sollten, damit ihnen die betreffenden Daten übermittelt werden. Hierzu gehören unter anderem die Rechtshilfeabkommen zwischen den Vereinigten Staaten und der EU bzw. ihren Mitgliedstaaten.

Unternehmen, die außerhalb der etablierten Kanäle direkt auf Anfragen von Behörden aus Drittländern antworten, verstoßen gegebenenfalls gegen nationales Recht, das die Richtlinie 95/46/EG umsetzt. Es ist in erster Linie Sache der nationalen Behörden, vor allem der unabhängigen Datenschutzbehörden, die Einhaltung des Datenschutzrechts zu überwachen und etwaige Verstöße zu untersuchen.

Die Kommission hat diesen Bedenken bei der umfassenden Datenschutzreform ebenfalls Rechnung getragen. Der Vorschlag für eine Datenschutz-Grundverordnung (96) bezieht sich insbesondere auf die Frage der extraterritorialen Anwendung fremden Rechts und stellt klar, dass Datenübermittlungen nur zulässig sein sollten, wenn die in dieser Verordnung festgelegten Bedingungen für Datenübermittlungen in Drittländer eingehalten werden. Diese Frage wird ferner regelmäßig mit den US-Behörden diskutiert, so auch bei den Verhandlungen über ein Abkommen zwischen der EU und den USA über den Austausch personenbezogener Daten zwischen den Justiz‐ und Polizeibehörden, das allen Personen ein hohes Datenschutzniveau garantieren soll.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001361/13

to the Commission

Hans-Peter Martin (NI)

(11 February 2013)

Subject: Protecting of European citizens' computer data against attempts to access them from the USA

A large proportion of global Internet companies are from the USA.

According to media reports, in January 2013 President Barack Obama signed an extension to the term of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and an Annex thereto entitled ‘FISAAA 1881a’. This law authorises the US security services to access data belonging to non-US citizens that are stored by US companies, even they are stored on servers located outside the USA.

Analysts claim that the US authorities may access the private data of European citizens without a court order, even if this data is physically located in the EU.

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(12 April 2013)

The Commission is aware of the concerns related to the extraterritorial application of laws of third countries regulating data processing activities that fall under the jurisdiction of Member States. These laws may be in breach of international law and may affect the fundamental rights of individuals in the Union.

The Commission considers that when a law enforcement authority in the US realises that necessary information lies outside its jurisdiction, it should ask for it via the cooperation mechanisms that are in place with EU Member States where that data are located. Such instruments are, among others, the Mutual Legal Assistance agreements between the US and the EU or its Member States.

Outside the currently established channels, when replying directly to requests originating by US authorities, companies may be in breach of national rules implementing the directive 95/46/EC. It is primarily for national authorities, in particular the independent data protection authorities, to monitor compliance with data protection rules and investigate any violation thereof.

The Commission also duly took into account these concerns in the comprehensive reform package of data protection rules. In particular, the proposed General Data Protection Regulation (97) refers to the issue of foreign extraterritorial legislation and makes clear that data transfers should only be allowed where the conditions of the regulation for an international transfer are met. This issue is also regularly raised with the US authorities, notably in the context of the negotiation of an EU-US agreement on the exchange of personal data between judicial and police authorities that should provide a high level of privacy protection for all individuals.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-001362/13

an die Kommission

Hans-Peter Martin (NI)

(11. Februar 2013)

Betrifft: Kosten der Pensionierung von EU-Beamten

Antwort von Herrn Šefčovič im Namen der Kommission

(8. April 2013)

Bezüglich der Zahlen zu den durchschnittlichen Ruhegehältern möchte die Kommission den Herrn Abgeordneten auf die Antworten zu den Anfragen E-177/2013, E-11106/12 und E‐6860/2010 verweisen. Im Zeitraum 2010-2012 sind 2379 Bedienstete in den Ruhestand getreten. Das durchschnittliche Ruhegehalt der 57 EU-Beamten, die nach Artikel 23 des Anhangs XIII zum Statut der Beamten zwischen 2010 und 2012 in den Ruhestand getreten sind, betrug ungefähr 2 300 EUR.

Derzeit befinden sich 1955 ehemalige Bedienstete mit deutscher Staatsangehörigkeit und 47 ehemalige Bedienstete mit österreichischer Staatsangehörigkeit im Ruhestand.

Im Zeitraum 2010-2012 haben die EU-Organe das Verfahren gemäß Artikel 41 des Statuts der Beamten nicht angewendet.

Das Durchschnittsalter der in Ruhestand getretenen EU-Bediensteten blieb mit 71,5 Jahren stabil.

Die Gesamtkosten des Versorgungssystems für die Jahre 2010, 2011 und 2012 sind den jeweiligen jährlichen EU-Haushaltsplänen zu entnehmen.

Die Nettoverbindlichkeit im Rahmen des Versorgungssystems der EU ist, wie aus der Jahresrechnung der EU hervorgeht, vom 31.12.2010 bis zum 31.12.2011 von 32,8 Mrd. EUR auf 30,6 Mrd. EUR gesunken. Dieser Rückgang ist, wie der Jahresrechnung der EU von 2011 zu entnehmen ist (Erläuterung 2.14.1), vorrangig auf den höheren Abzinsungssatz zurückzuführen. Der Wert der Verbindlichkeit zum 31.12.2012 wurde noch nicht berechnet.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-001362/13

to the Commission

Hans-Peter Martin (NI)

(11 February 2013)

Subject: Pension costs for EU officials