92001E1969

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1969/01

by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission

(5 July 2001)

Subject: Railways in Greece

The railway is a particularly effective and viable solution to the acute problems of traffic congestion, pollution and accidents, which is why Community programmes also support the extension and modernisation of the rail networks in the Member States.

1. Does the Commission consider that the rail programme under the second Community Support Framework was carried out in a satisfactory manner (initial and revised budget, progress of projects)?

2. What projects are included in the third Community Support Framework?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2001)

As regards the implementation rate of rail projects programmed in the Community support framework (CSF) for 1994-1999 in Greece, the Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its supplementary answer to Written Question E-3657/00 by Mr Hatzidakis(1).

The main aim of the rail transport projects to be part-financed in Greece by the CSF and the Cohesion Fund in the 2000-2006 programming period is the completion of the construction of an electrified double track between Athens and Thessaloniki and links between this line and the ports of Piraeus and Thessaloniki. Construction of a double track between Athens, Corinth and Patras, the rail link from the centre of Athens to the new airport at Spata and the restructuring and implementation of the business plan of the Greek Railways Organisation (OSE) are also included in the projects listed in the programming referred to above.

(1) OJ C 136 E, 8.5.2001.