http://www.europarl.europa.eu/QP-WEB
PISNA VPRAŠANJA Z ODGOVORI

Pisna vprašanja poslancev Evropskega parlamenta in odgovori institucij Evropske unije

(2013/C 310 E/01)

Vsebina

E-009682/12 by Rachida Dati to the Commission

Subject: Europe must lead the way in the market for clean vehicles

E-009684/12 by Marek Henryk Migalski to the Commission

Subject: Polish education ministry officials refused entry to Belarus

E-009685/12 by Adrian Severin to the Commission

Subject: OLAF's working methods in the context of the Dalli case

E-009686/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: Simplification of the CAP and the sharing of best practice between farmers

P-009687/12 by María Auxiliadora Correa Zamora to the Commission

Subject: Non-tariff barriers for the olive oil sector in the USA

E-009688/12 by Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris to the Commission

Subject: Corruption in Italy

E-009689/12 by Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Evacuations and right to education in Zimbabwe

E-009690/12 by Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris to the Commission

Subject: Association dedicated to women

E-009691/12 by Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris to the Commission

Subject: Flu vaccine safety

E-009692/12 by Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris to the Commission

Subject: Record unemployment in Europe

E-009693/12 by Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris to the Commission

Subject: Limited resources for the disabled

P-009694/12 by Riikka Manner to the Commission

Subject: Revision of state aid rules in the context of European territorial cooperation

E-009695/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Judgment given in Italy: hazards of electromagnetic radiation

E-009696/12 by Christian Engström to the Commission

Subject: The Tobacco Directive and Swedish oral tobacco (snus)

P-009697/12 by Carl Schlyter to the Commission

Subject: Wolf population in Sweden

E-009698/12 by Vasilica Viorica Dăncilă to the Commission

Subject: Kindergartens in rural communities

E-009699/12 by Vasilica Viorica Dăncilă to the Commission

Subject: Women's involvement in European Cooperatives

E-009700/12 by Mario Mauro to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Bomb attacks in Iraq

E-009701/12 by Mario Mauro to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Armed attack in Nigeria

E-009947/12 by Mario Mauro to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Car bomb in Nigeria

E-009702/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Defending the Community budget 2014-2020

E-009703/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: European programmes to combat poverty

E-009704/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: European emigration

E-009705/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Analysis of the deficit and public debt

E-009706/12 by Auke Zijlstra to the Commission

Subject: ECB on excessive deficits in eurozone countries

E-009707/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Grain prices

E-009708/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Raw foodstuffs

E-009709/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Food crises

E-009711/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: Cuts in R R&D D spending in Spain

E-009712/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Violation of immigrants' human rights in Israel

E-009713/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: Nuclear stress test results

E-009714/12 by Nikolaos Salavrakos to the Commission

Subject: Innovative Automobile

E-009715/12 by Nikolaos Salavrakos to the Commission

Subject: Growing numbers of the elderly

E-009716/12 by Nikolaos Salavrakos to the Commission

Subject: European programmes

E-009717/12 by Nikolaos Salavrakos to the Commission

Subject: National rail services

E-009718/12 by Nikolaos Salavrakos to the Commission

Subject: Solidarity between EU countries

E-009719/12 by Theodoros Skylakakis to the Commission

Subject: Licensing of pharmacies in Greece

E-009720/12 by Marta Andreasen to the Commission

Subject: A suspicious case of tendering at the European Environment Agency

E-009721/12 by Phil Bennion to the Commission

Subject: European Aviation Safety Agency's management of conflicts of interest

E-009722/12 by Patrick Le Hyaric to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Expansion of the settlement in Gilo in East Jerusalem

E-009723/12 by Patrick Le Hyaric to the Commission

Subject: Obstacles faced by Palestinian pharmaceutical companies

E-009724/12 by Marc Tarabella to the Commission

Subject: Agricultural wetlands

E-009725/12 by Claudio Morganti to the Commission

Subject: Journalists imprisoned in Turkey

E-009738/12 by Mario Borghezio to the Commission

Subject: Journalists imprisoned in Turkey: EU intervention

E-009905/12 by Fiorello Provera to the Commission

Subject: Crackdown on press freedom in Turkey

E-009971/12 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: Report on ‘Turkey's Press Freedom Crisis’

E-010359/12 by William (The Earl of) Dartmouth to the Commission

Subject: Media freedoms in Turkey

P-009726/12 by Marita Ulvskog to the Commission

Subject: Departure of John Dalli and the Commission's further approach to the Tobacco Directive

E-009727/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Farm incomes

E-009728/12 by Francisco Sosa Wagner to the Commission

Subject: Return to the issue of credit rating agencies

E-009729/12 by Francisco Sosa Wagner to the Commission

Subject: Risks to olive oil exports

E-009730/12 by Francisco Sosa Wagner to the Commission

Subject: Operations generated by using algorithms

E-009731/12 by Nadja Hirsch and Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Production of foie gras (fat liver) and application of the derogation provided for in Article 13 TFEU

E-009732/12 by William (The Earl of) Dartmouth to the Commission

Subject: Opting out of the European Arrest Warrant

E-009734/12 by William (The Earl of) Dartmouth to the Commission

Subject: Regulating the free movement of people

E-009735/12 by Marita Ulvskog to the Commission

Subject: EC law on conflict minerals

E-009736/12 by Jan Mulder to the Commission

Subject: Export of embryos outside the EU

E-009739/12 by Vicente Miguel Garcés Ramón to the Commission

Subject: Implementation of EAFRD programmes in the Valencia Region

E-009740/12 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Withholding of funding for the transport of pupils with special needs to specialised education centres

E-009741/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Creative Europe programme

E-010543/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: Intervention at Madrid's Barajas airport by staff from the US Embassy

E-010546/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: USA Embassy staff prevent a Columbian citizen from flying out of Barajas

E-009742/12 by Martin Ehrenhauser to the Commission

Subject: Use of PNR data by the USA

E-009743/12 by Willy Meyer to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Custodial sentence handed down to Colombian journalist Fredy Muñoz

E-009744/12 by James Nicholson to the Commission

Subject: Internal trafficking of human beings within Member States

E-009745/12 by James Nicholson to the Commission

Subject: Support for micro-businesses

E-009746/12 by Mario Mauro to the Commission

Subject: Rules on huntable bird species

E-009748/12 by Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl to the Commission

Subject: Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is not ACTA

E-009749/12 by Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl to the Commission

Subject: Anti-dumping investigation into solar panel imports from China

E-009750/12 by Charles Tannock to the Commission

Subject: The role of EU legislation in the rights of members of the public to erect satellite TV dishes

E-009751/12 by Kartika Tamara Liotard to the Commission

Subject: Widespread failure to comply with animal welfare law in the Netherlands

E-009752/12 by Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou to the Commission

Subject: Employment policies in response to the crisis and joblessness — Greece and Spain

P-009753/12 by Ivo Belet to the Commission

Subject: Restructuring in the automotive industry/closure of Ford Genk

P-009755/12 by Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy to the Commission

Subject: Antidumping procedure concerning imports of white phosphorus from Kazakhstan

P-009756/12 by David Martin to the Commission

Subject: Independent states and EU membership

P-009862/12 by Gerard Batten to the Commission

Subject: Status of the United Kingdom if Scotland leaves

E-009757/12 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: The private passenger transport sector in Italy and the proper functioning of the European internal market

E-009759/12 by Struan Stevenson and Isabella Lövin to the Commission

Subject: Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing

E-009760/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: EU social security coordination

E-009761/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: European Globalisation Adjustment Fund

E-009762/12 by Mario Mauro to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Death penalty day

E-009763/12 by Mike Nattrass to the Commission

Subject: Islamic Relief Worldwide

E-009764/12 by Mike Nattrass to the Commission

Subject: Muslim Aid

E-009765/12 by Claudiu Ciprian Tănăsescu to the Commission

Subject: Marketing food and beverages to children

E-009766/12 by Izaskun Bilbao Barandica to the Commission

Subject: European agricultural funds

E-009767/12 by Amelia Andersdotter to the Commission

Subject: EU coordination and common position in the World Intellectual Property Organisation on the issue of granting observer status to international and EU-wide NGOs

E-009978/12 by Amelia Andersdotter to the Commission

Subject: EU coordination and common EU position in the World Intellectual Property Organisation on the issue of granting observer status to international and EU-wide NGOs

E-009768/12 by Mario Mauro to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Attacks by religious extremists in Tunisia

P-009769/12 by Sari Essayah to the Commission

Subject: Destruction of used energy-saving lamps

E-009770/12 by Cristiana Muscardini, Gabriele Albertini, Salvatore Tatarella, Niccolò Rinaldi, Roberta Angelilli, Patrizia Toia, Lara Comi, Tiziano Motti, Amalia Sartori, Gianluca Susta, Carlo Fidanza, Sonia Alfano, Paolo Bartolozzi and Malcolm Harbour to the Commission

Subject: The fight against counterfeiting

E-009771/12 by Cristiana Muscardini to the Commission

Subject: Counterfeiting over the Internet

E-009772/12 by Marta Andreasen to the Commission

Subject: Budget line 25 01 02 13: Other management expenditure of Members of the Institution

E-009773/12 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Introduction of the Tobin Tax and possible impact on savers and businesses

E-009774/12 by Mario Borghezio to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Intervention for the right to freedom of a European citizen, ‘prisoner’ in Saudi Arabia

E-009775/12 by Hannu Takkula to the Commission

Subject: Active engagement of the European citizen

E-009776/12 by Adrian Severin to the Commission

Subject: Authors of CVM reports on Romania

E-009777/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Failed merger between EADS and BAE

E-009778/12 by Marc Tarabella to the Commission

Subject: Data protection directive

E-009779/12 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Incidents at present at the Temelin nuclear power plant

E-009780/12 by Andreas Mölzer to the Commission

Subject: Charges for credit card payments abroad

E-009781/12 by Zbigniew Ziobro, Tadeusz Cymański, Jacek Włosowicz and Jacek Olgierd Kurski to the Commission

Subject: Reducing the sulphur content of marine fuels

E-009782/12 by Matteo Salvini to the Commission

Subject: European Directive 2001/37/EC, DG SANCO

E-009783/12 by Ramona Nicole Mănescu to the Commission

Subject: Auditors report for the Regional Operational Programme (CCI: 2007RO161PO001)

E-009784/12 by Tanja Fajon and Claude Moraes to the Council

Subject: Future role of the United Kingdom in EU police cooperation

E-009785/12 by Tanja Fajon and Claude Moraes to the Commission

Subject: United Kingdom's future role in EU police cooperation

E-009786/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Discontinuing the visa-free regime for Serbia and Macedonia

E-009787/12 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Solidarity Fund and natural disasters in island areas

E-009789/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Relations between the European Union and the Republic of South Africa

E-009791/12 by Nuno Melo to the Commission

Subject: IMF calls on Portugal to make ‘additional efforts’

E-009792/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Tourism cooperation programmes in the ORs

E-009793/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Research, innovation, and technology programmes in the ORs

E-009794/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Energy programmes in the ORs

E-009795/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Programmes to support industry in the ORs

P-009796/12 by Martin Callanan to the Commission

Subject: Free movement of individuals and goods in the European Union

P-009797/12 by Christel Schaldemose to the Commission

Subject: Certification of medical devices

E-009798/12 by Niki Tzavela to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Situation in Lebanon

E-009799/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Commissioners' terms of employment

E-009800/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Common Provisions Regulation

E-009801/12 by Daciana Octavia Sârbu to the Commission

Subject: Physical activity indicators

E-009802/12 by Judith Sargentini to the Commission

Subject: Implementation of European telecommunications directives and network neutrality in the Netherlands

E-009803/12 by Oreste Rossi to the Commission

Subject: Protection of biodiversity and local knowledge: what is the EU's position regarding sustainable application of intellectual property rules?

E-009804/12 by Oreste Rossi to the Commission

Subject: Psychiatric disorders related to substance abuse: information measures and incentives for specialists

E-009805/12 by Oreste Rossi to the Commission

Subject: Construction: safer tunnels

E-009806/12 by Oreste Rossi to the Commission

Subject: Combating childhood diabetes: investing in new studies

E-009807/12 by Oreste Rossi to the Commission

Subject: Transparent solar panels

E-009808/12 by Oreste Rossi to the Commission

Subject: Peer education: its short and long-term effectiveness needs to be assessed

E-009809/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Tobin Tax — Enhanced cooperation on the European financial transaction tax

E-009810/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Tobin tax — Transactions subject to the new EU tax

E-009812/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Tobin tax — Introducing tax on a global scale

E-009813/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Accounting for public-private partnerships in the public deficit

E-009814/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Job opportunities for recent graduates

E-009815/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Use of remaining bank recapitalisation funds

P-009816/12 by Isabella Lövin to the Commission

Subject: Communication of shortfin mako catches to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) pursuant to ICCAT Rec [10-06]

P-009817/12 by Bernd Lange to the Commission

Subject: Production of refrigerants for motor vehicle air-conditioning systems

E-009818/12 by Salvador Garriga Polledo to the Commission

Subject: Situation of NEETs

E-009819/12 by Bernd Lange to the Commission

Subject: Eco-innovations for passenger vehicles

E-009820/12 by Bernd Lange to the Commission

Subject: Euro 6 emission standard

E-009821/12 by Auke Zijlstra to the Commission

Subject: Tax on financial transactions

E-009822/12 by Kriton Arsenis to the Commission

Subject: Protecting cetaceans from sonar activities

E-009823/12 by Ana Miranda, François Alfonsi and Jill Evans to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Situation of the 12 Palestinians evacuated from the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem and transferred to the European Union in 2002

E-009825/12 by Alajos Mészáros and Zoltán Bagó to the Commission

Subject: Ratione temporis impact of EC law

P-009826/12 by Jürgen Creutzmann to the Commission

Subject: Application of EU state aid rules and notifications in Rheinland-Pfalz

E-009827/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Oil exploration off the Canary Islands

E-009829/12 by Brice Hortefeux to the Commission

Subject: Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived

E-009830/12 by Vilija Blinkevičiūtė to the Council

Subject: Continued provision for EU food aid under the 2014-2020 multiannual financial framework

E-009831/12 by Daciana Octavia Sârbu to the Commission

Subject: EU drugs strategy

E-009832/12 by Andrea Zanoni to the Commission

Subject: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and protecting the health of European citizens

E-009833/12 by Mario Borghezio to the Commission

Subject: Reinforcement of controls on the use of IPA funds

E-009834/12 by Carl Schlyter to the Commission

Subject: Getterön bird protection area

E-009835/12 by Christel Schaldemose to the Commission

Subject: Questions on airline tickets

E-009836/12 by Raül Romeva i Rueda to the Commission

Subject: Budget for Horizon 2020

E-009839/12 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Transport — Directive 2010/48/EU

E-009841/12 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Enhancing farm safety

E-009842/12 by Diane Dodds to the Commission

Subject: Farm accidents and fatalities across the EU

E-009844/12 by Ingeborg Gräßle to the Commission

Subject: Revolving doors: Commission officials hired by the tobacco industry

E-009931/12 by Monica Luisa Macovei to the Commission

Subject: Revolving doors: Commission officials hired by the tobacco industry

P-009845/12 by Elisa Ferreira to the Commission

Subject: Macroeconomic conditionality in the 2014-2020 multiannual financial framework

P-009846/12 by Niki Tzavela to the Commission

Subject: Hiring of foreign technocrats

E-009847/12 by Izaskun Bilbao Barandica to the Commission

Subject: Apologists for Franco acting with impunity in Navarre

E-009848/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Madeira Free Zone (MFZ)/Madeira International Business Centre (CINM) — I

E-009849/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Madeira Free Zone (MFZ)/Madeira International Business Centre (CINM) — II

E-009850/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Madeira Free Zone (MFZ)/Madeira International Business Centre (CINM) — III

E-009851/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Madeira Free Zone (MFZ)/ Madeira International Business Centre (CINM) — IV

E-009852/12 by Georgios Papanikolaou to the Commission

Subject: Response of national confederations to the action ‘European Partnership on Sports’

E-009853/12 by Georgios Papanikolaou to the Commission

Subject: Take-up of EU funds by Greece in 2010-2012

E-009854/12 by Georgios Papanikolaou to the Commission

Subject: Credit for businesses and investments in Greece

E-009855/12 by Georgios Papanikolaou to the Commission

Subject: Statement by Commissioner Hahn on the liquidity problem facing SMEs in Greece

P-009856/12 by Michèle Striffler to the Commission

Subject: The soaring price of wheat

P-009857/12 by Emer Costello to the Commission

Subject: Preparatory action ‘Youth Guarantee’

P-009858/12 by Françoise Grossetête to the Commission

Subject: Implementation of Directive 2011/62/EU combating falsified medicines — implementing act pursuant to Article 111(b)

E-009859/12 by Judith A. Merkies to the Commission

Subject: Microplastics

P-009860/12 by Elena Băsescu to the Commission

Subject: Pre-suspension of payments under three sectoral operational programmes in Romania

P-009861/12 by David-Maria Sassoli to the Commission

Subject: Arrest of Costas Vaxevanis and defence of freedom of information

P-009863/12 by Kartika Tamara Liotard to the Commission

Subject: Request for drafts of the new Tobacco Directive

E-009864/12 by Michael Cramer to the Commission

Subject: Cost-efficiency of the Baltic-Adriatic corridor (‘Connecting Europe Facility’)

E-009865/12 by Michael Cramer to the Commission

Subject: Bringing bicycles onto long distance trains

E-009866/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: No need for flight cancellation insurance

E-009867/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Relaxing of the strict limits on genetically contaminated food

E-009868/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Threat from Monsanto product Roundup

E-009869/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: Food information regulation opaque and over-complicated

E-009870/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: The European Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI) — Support measures in Paraguay

E-009871/12 by Andrew Henry William Brons to the Commission

Subject: Public image of the President of the Commission

E-009872/12 by Adina-Ioana Vălean to the Commission

Subject: Draft revised EU Guidelines for the application of state aid rules in relation to the rapid deployment of broadband networks

E-009873/12 by Mariya Gabriel to the Commission

Subject: Confiscation and reuse of assets of organised crime

E-009875/12 by Jean-Luc Mélenchon to the Commission

Subject: Authorisation of Syngenta's genetically modified maize MIR162

E-009876/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: Violence in Spain and Greece

E-009877/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: Aviation carbon emissions

E-009878/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: Decline in quality tourism

E-009879/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: WTO Boeing

E-009881/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: Wind energy

E-009882/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: Supervision of medical devices

E-009883/12 by David Casa to the Commission

Subject: Railway package

E-009884/12 by Francesco De Angelis to the Commission

Subject: Waste disposal in southern Lazio

P-009885/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: United Arab Emirates, Dubai: sentencing of Dr Eugen Adelsmayr on 21.10.2012

E-009886/12 by Franz Obermayr to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — United Arab Emirates, Dubai: sentencing of Dr Eugen Adelsmayr on 21.10.2012

E-009887/12 by Ingeborg Gräßle to the Commission

Subject: Absences in EU delegations in third countries

E-009888/12 by Ingeborg Gräßle to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Absences in EU delegations in third countries

E-009889/12 by Ingeborg Gräßle to the Commission

Subject: Golden handshake — early retirement without reduction of pension rights

E-009890/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Council

Subject: Cosmetic products

E-009891/12 by Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Cosmetic products

E-009892/12 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Guaranteed application of collective agreements under the Greek Memorandum

P-010013/12 by Konstantinos Poupakis to the Commission

Subject: Collective Bargaining in Greece and the EU acquis

E-009893/12 by Konstantinos Poupakis to the Commission

Subject: Ratio between indirect and direct taxes in Greece

E-009894/12 by Nessa Childers to the Commission

Subject: Funding for disabled farmers

E-009895/12 by Nessa Childers to the Commission

Subject: Establishment of a Youth Entrepreneurship Fund in Ireland

E-009896/12 by Nessa Childers to the Commission

Subject: Funding for academic studies

E-009897/12 by Daciana Octavia Sârbu to the Commission

Subject: European Health Examination Survey

E-009898/12 by Seán Kelly to the Commission

Subject: Review of the Commission's position on the composition of elements used to measure EU carbon output

E-009899/12 by Seán Kelly to the Commission

Subject: Measurement of net carbon output

E-009900/12 by Barbara Lochbihler and Matthias Groote to the Commission

Subject: Human rights and climate change

E-009901/12 by Gaston Franco and Struan Stevenson to the Commission

Subject: Revision of EU legislation on packaging and packaging waste

E-009902/12 by Iva Zanicchi to the Commission

Subject: Haiti and the scourge of cholera

E-009903/12 by Elisa Ferreira, Luís Paulo Alves, António Fernando Correia de Campos, Ana Gomes, Vital Moreira, Edite Estrela and Luis Manuel Capoulas Santos to the Commission

Subject: Possible preferential treatment of Ireland

P-009904/12 by Christine De Veyrac to the Council

Subject: Multiannual financial framework 2014-2020

E-009906/12 by Fiorello Provera to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Foiled al-Qaeda attack in Jordan

E-009907/12 by Fiorello Provera to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Support for a women's rights strategy in Afghanistan

P-009909/12 by Ricardo Cortés Lastra to the Commission

Subject: A European policy to ensure decent housing

E-009910/12 by Raül Romeva i Rueda to the Commission

Subject: Proposed quarry in the Serra de la Tossa d'Algerri

E-009911/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Retirement age of Commission officials

E-009912/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Single European Sky initiative — infringement proceedings against Member States

E-009913/12 by Nicole Sinclaire to the Commission

Subject: Construction of European External Action Service headquarters

E-009914/12 by Rachida Dati to the Commission

Subject: Commission must take the principle of subsidiarity seriously

E-009915/12 by Elisabetta Gardini to the Commission

Subject: Abruzzo earthquake ruling

E-009916/12 by Claudiu Ciprian Tănăsescu to the Commission

Subject: Illegal organ harvesting in China

E-009917/12 by Bogdan Kazimierz Marcinkiewicz, Andrzej Grzyb, Jolanta Emilia Hibner, Tadeusz Zwiefka and Jacek Protasiewicz to the Commission

Subject: Public consultations on the review of the auction time profile for the EU Emissions Trading System

E-009918/12 by Bill Newton Dunn to the Commission

Subject: Glyphosate

E-009919/12 by Raül Romeva i Rueda to the Commission

Subject: Immigrant detention centre (CIE) in Aluche, Madrid

E-009920/12 by Auke Zijlstra to the Commission

Subject: Deferral for Greece could cost between EUR 30 and 38 billion

P-009921/12 by Vicky Ford to the Commission

Subject: French Government support for PSA Peugeot Citroën

P-009922/12 by Cornelis de Jong to the Commission

Subject: Amendment of the Staff Regulations

E-009923/12 by Nikolaos Chountis to the Commission

Subject: Co-financed project to link the Cyclades and mainland Greece via submarine cables.

E-009924/12 by Bill Newton Dunn to the Commission

Subject: Hairdressers

E-009925/12 by Agnès Le Brun to the Commission

Subject: VAT increase for personal services

E-009926/12 by Lucas Hartong and Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: Aid to Kosovo is a waste of money

E-009927/12 by Peter van Dalen to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Participation in prayers by Egypt's President Morsi

E-009928/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Portuguese budget deficit — friendly cuts programme

E-009929/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Return to the rule of law in Guinea-Bissau

E-009930/12 by Nuno Teixeira to the Commission

Subject: Beyond the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations

E-009932/12 by Daniel Hannan to the Commission

Subject: Justice for property buyers in Cyprus

E-009933/12 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Bahraini Government denies right to protest

E-009934/12 by Mara Bizzotto to the Commission

Subject: Worsening security situation in Nigeria after Catholic church was targeted in suicide attack

E-010082/12 by Diogo Feio to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Nigeria — another attack on a church

E-009936/12 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: Investment in wind power and solar energy

E-009937/12 by Hannu Takkula to the Commission

Subject: Environmentally and ethically sustainable fishing

E-009938/12 by Hannu Takkula to the Commission

Subject: Opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate in international programmes

P-009939/12 by Michael Cashman to the Commission

Subject: VP/HR — Implementation of the EU guidelines on children and armed conflict

P-009940/12 by Keith Taylor to the Commission

Subject: Commission's analysis of proposal concerning good practice in the food supply chain

E-009941/12 by Carlos Coelho and Ioan Enciu to the Commission

Subject: Schengen acquis

E-009942/12 by Patricia van der Kammen to the Commission

Subject: Transport en Logistiek Nederland (TLN) wants action to address transport abuses

E-009943/12 by Laurence J.A.J. Stassen to the Commission

Subject: European Emissions Trading System

P-009944/12 by Josef Weidenholzer to the Commission

Subject: German aircraft on a Frontex mission over Gibraltar

E-009945/12 by Christine De Veyrac to the Commission

Subject: Reduced rate of VAT

E-009946/12 by Christine De Veyrac to the Commission

Subject: Pharmaceuticals market in Europe

E-009948/12 by Ingeborg Gräßle to the Commission

Subject: OLAF investigation of Japanese Tobacco Inc — smuggling accusations

E-009950/12 by Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg to the Commission

Subject: Banning the sale of marijuana to foreigners in the Netherlands

E-009951/12 by Olle Schmidt to the Commission

Subject: Human trafficking in Sinai

E-009952/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Use of EU funds for Roma inclusion in Romania

E-009953/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Anti-Gypsyism in Italy

E-009954/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Decision by France's Constitutional Court regarding travelling Roma

E-009955/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Education in the Czech Republic

E-009956/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Education in Romania

E-009957/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Education in Slovakia

E-009958/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Healthcare in Bulgaria

E-009959/12 by Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Sonia Alfano, Cecilia Wikström and Ramon Tremosa i Balcells to the Commission

Subject: Lack of registration of Roma in Romania

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-009682/12

à la Commission

Rachida Dati (PPE)

(23 octobre 2012)

Objet: L'Europe doit prendre le leadership sur le marché des véhicules propres

La Commission a donné, le 18 juillet 2012, le feu vert à l'ouverture des négociations formelles en vue de la conclusion d'un accord de libre-échange avec le Japon. Elle a affirmé sa volonté de voir le Japon lever notamment ses barrières non tarifaires dans le secteur automobile.

La suppression de ces barrières est une nécessité pour ne pas accabler encore plus un secteur en souffrance. Si ces négociations devaient aboutir, l'Europe devra être prête. Elle doit renforcer son secteur automobile, et pour cela elle doit s'assurer d'avoir un avantage compétitif réel sur ses concurrents.

En cette période de crise, nous devons miser sur des investissements renforcés dans la recherche et le développement de véhicules électriques et hybrides. Ils seront le gage du renouveau du secteur automobile pour affronter le double défi climatique et de la concurrence mondiale.

L'Europe a promis 5 milliards d'euros à l'initiative européenne pour les véhicules verts. Or, d'autres pays, comme le Japon ou la Chine, ont investi massivement dans les véhicules et batteries électriques. Nous sommes en train d'accumuler un retard qui nous sera très préjudiciable lors de l'ouverture de notre marché à nos concurrents et, en ce cas précis, au Japon en particulier.

Quelles mesures nouvelles la Commission compte-t-elle présenter pour encourager l'industrie automobile européenne dans son ensemble à devenir le leader mondial du marché des véhicules propres?

Réponse donnée par M. Tajani au nom de la Commission

(18 décembre 2012)

Les technologies nécessaires pour la production de véhicules propres et économes en énergie sont à l'origine de la compétitivité de l'industrie européenne depuis de nombreuses années. La Commission, cependant, estime que l'Europe doit prendre des mesures pour renforcer cette avance technologique en tant que source de l'avantage concurrentiel de l'industrie automobile de l'UE — surtout dans le contexte d'une concurrence internationale croissante. Les dispositions nécessaires incluent des investissements dans la recherche, le développement et l'innovation, la normalisation des paramètres de sécurité des véhicules, le déploiement d'infrastructures de ravitaillement/rechargement adéquates et des mesures pour aider les travailleurs à acquérir les nouvelles qualifications requises. La communication «CARS 2020: plan d'action pour une industrie automobile compétitive et durable en Europe» (1), adoptée le 8 novembre 2012, énonce les mesures concrètes que la Commission mettra en œuvre au cours des prochaines années pour atteindre cet objectif.

Nos partenaires mondiaux, qui ont d'importantes capacités de production automobile, ont en effet adopté, eux aussi, des stratégies spécifiques en vue de mettre au point des technologies de production de véhicules propres et économes en énergie. À cet égard, le rôle de la Commission consiste, d'une part, à s'assurer que les normes en matière de climat et d'environnement sont dûment appliquées pour les véhicules vendus sur le marché de l'UE et, d'autre part, à encourager ou maintenir l'engagement des pays partenaires d'élaborer des exigences techniques internationales dans le domaine de la sécurité des véhicules et de la performance environnementale — dans le cadre de la CEE-ONU. C'est pourquoi, par exemple, a été récemment lancée une coopération concernant les exigences techniques internationales relatives aux véhicules électriques. L'adoption de règles internationales permettra des économies d'échelle et de coûts pour les constructeurs automobiles.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009682/12

to the Commission

Rachida Dati (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Europe must lead the way in the market for clean vehicles

On 18 July 2012 the Commission gave the green light to open formal negotiations for the conclusion of a free trade agreement with Japan. It stated its desire to see Japan raise its non-tariff barriers in the automobile sector in particular.

The removal of these barriers is essential in order to avoid further aggravating the situation of an ailing sector of the economy. If and when these negotiations are concluded, Europe must be ready. It must strengthen its automobile sector, and in order to do so, must ensure that it enjoys a real competitive advantage over its competitors.

In this time of crisis, we must focus on increasing investment in R R&D D for electric and hybrid vehicles. They will ensure the revival of the automobile sector, enabling it to tackle the twin challenges of climate change and global competition.

Europe has pledged 5 billion euros to the European initiative for green vehicles. However, other countries, such as Japan and China, have invested very heavily in electric vehicles and batteries. We are falling behind, and this will prove very detrimental when we open our market to our competitors, notably Japan.

What new measures does the Commission intend to unveil to encourage the European automobile industry as a whole to become the world leader in the clean vehicle market?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(18 December 2012)

The technologies necessary for the production of clean and energy-efficient vehicles have been the source of European industry's competitiveness for many years. The Commission however, shares the view that Europe needs to take action in order to reinforce this technological leadership as the source of the competitive advantage of the EU's automotive industry — especially in the context of growing international competition. The necessary measures include investments in research, development and innovation, the standardisation of safety parameters of vehicles, the deployment of adequate refuelling/recharging infrastructure and measures helping workers acquire the necessary new skills. The communication ‘CARS 2020 — Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable automotive industry in Europe’ (2), adopted on 8 November 2012, spells-out the concrete measures that the Commission will implement over the next years bearing this objective in mind.

Our global partners, who have important automotive production capabilities, have indeed also adopted specific strategies in order to develop technologies for clean and energy efficient vehicles. On this aspect, the role of the Commission is to make sure that climate and environmental standards are duly implemented for vehicles sold on the EU market but also to promote or maintain an engagement of partner countries in the development of international technical requirements in the area of vehicle safety and environmental performance — in the framework of the UNECE. This is why for example cooperation recently started on international technical requirements for electric vehicles. Adoption of international rules will lead to economies of scale and cost savings for automotive manufacturers.

(Wersja polska)

Pytanie wymagające odpowiedzi pisemnej E-009684/12

do Komisji

Marek Henryk Migalski (ECR)

(23 października 2012 r.)

Przedmiot: Przedstawiciele polskiego Ministerstwa Edukacji Narodowej nie zostali wpuszczeni na Białoruś

Białoruskie władze nie wpuściły na Białoruś przedstawicieli Ministerstwa Edukacji Narodowej, którzy mieli wziąć udział w Forum Oświaty Polskojęzycznej w Baranowiczach. Nie zostały podane powody odmowy przyznania im wiz.

Organizatorem Forum Oświaty Polskojęzycznej jest nieuznawany przez władze w Mińsku Związek Polaków na Białorusi. Podczas forum omawiana miała być sprawa podpisania przez Polskę i Białoruś umowy dotyczącej współpracy w dziedzinie edukacji. Dyskusja miała też dotyczyć odmawiania wiz nauczycielom z Polski oraz kwestii wydania podręczników w języku polskim.

Oczywiste jest, że odmowa wpuszczenia na Białoruś przedstawicieli polskiego ministerstwa nie jest przypadkową decyzją konsula, lecz celową decyzją władz w Mińsku. Jest to kolejne działanie wymierzone przeciwko mniejszości polskiej na Białorusi. Aktywiści ZPB są tłamszeni przez władze w Mińsku, wszczynane są przeciwko nim sprawy karne, często dochodzi do aresztowań członków tej polonijnej organizacji, nakłada się na nich kary finansowe. Jak pokazują wydarzenia tego tygodnia, władze w Mińsku starają się również utrudnić im kontakt z przedstawicielami polskich władz i sfinalizować projekty wspierające polską oświatę na Białorusi. W związku z tym pragnę zapytać, czy Komisja ma zamiar wyrazić sprzeciw wobec oczywistych represji i prześladowań mniejszości polskiej przez białoruskie władze?

Odpowiedź udzielona przez komisarza Štefana Fülego w imieniu Komisji

(4 lutego 2013 r.)

Unia Europejska oczywiście ubolewa, że władze białoruskie podejmują działania mające na celu zerwanie kontaktów międzyludzkich, utrudnianie mniejszościom narodowym pielęgnowania swojej kultury czy, bardziej ogólnie, uniemożliwianie przedstawicielom europejskiego społeczeństwa obywatelskiego wizyt na Białorusi. UE jest głęboko przekonana, że wspieranie tego typu kontaktów międzyludzkich jest niezwykle istotne.

Jakkolwiek Białoruś może jednostronnie podjąć decyzję o wpuszczeniu bądź niewpuszczeniu obywateli innych państw na swoje terytorium, Unia Europejska będzie stale zwracała uwagę władz białoruskich na to, jak istotne jest, by nie tworzyć jakichkolwiek nieuzasadnionych przeszkód w kontaktach międzyludzkich.

UE znacznie rozszerzyła powyższe działania podejmując szereg inicjatyw. Od czasu, gdy po wyborach prezydenckich w 2010 r. na Białorusi stłumiono protesty, UE pięciokrotnie zwiększyła swoją pomoc dla społeczeństwa obywatelskiego i wezwała białoruskie władze, by przerwały działania represyjne wymierzone w organizacje społeczeństwa obywatelskiego i ich liderów.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009684/12

to the Commission

Marek Henryk Migalski (ECR)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Polish education ministry officials refused entry to Belarus

Officials from Poland’s education ministry who were to have taken part in a conference on Polish-language education in Baranovichy have been denied entry to the country by the Belarusian authorities. No reasons were given for the refusal to grant visas.

The conference is organised by Union of Poles in Belarus (ZPB), which is not recognised by the authorities in Minsk. It was to have addressed the signing by Poland and Belarus of an agreement on cooperation in the area of education. The refusal to issue visas to teachers from Poland and the question of Polish-language textbooks were also to have been discussed.

Clearly the refusal to allow education ministry officials into Belarus was not an arbitrary decision by the consul, but a deliberate decision taken by the authorities in Minsk. It is yet another measure taken against the Polish minority in Belarus. ZPB activists are repressed by the Minsk authorities and subject to criminal prosecutions. They are often arrested and fined As the events of this week show, the authorities in Minsk are also trying to hinder their contacts with representatives of the Polish authorities and put a stop to projects supporting Polish-language education in Belarus. Does the Commission intend to intervene in the case of the refusal to allow Polish education ministry officials into Belarus, and to voice its opposition to the clear repression and persecution of the Polish minority by the Belarusian authorities?

Answer given by Mr Füle on behalf of the Commission

(4 February 2013)

The EU naturally regrets any actions by the Belarusian authorities which disrupt people-to-people contacts, prevent minorities from exercising their specific culture or, more generally, prevent representatives from European civil society visiting Belarus. The EU firmly believes in the importance of promoting such people-to-people contacts.

While Belarus can unilaterally decide upon the admission or not of non-Belarusian citizens to its territory, the EU will continue to ceaselessly underline to the Belarusian authorities the importance of not putting up any unjustified obstacles to such people-to-people contacts.

The EU has substantially fostered these activites through its different initiatives. Since the crackdown following the 2010 presidential elections, the EU has quintupled the amount of its assistance dedicated to civil society and called on the Belarusian authorities to refrain from repressive activities against civil society organisations and their leaders.

(Versiunea în limba română)

Întrebarea cu solicitare de răspuns scris E-009685/12

adresată Comisiei

Adrian Severin (NI)

(23 octombrie 2012)

Subiect: Modul de lucru al OLAF în contextul cazului Dalli

Cazul Comisarului John Dalli a scos la lumină modul dubios în care operează OLAF.

În cazul menționat, OLAF a tras concluzii pe baza unor probe circumstanțiale. Or, asemenea probe au valoare numai coroborate cu probele directe. Probele circumstanțiale (indirecte) nu pot înfrânge prezumția de nevinovăție. Ele lasă neatins beneficiul dubiului iar în caz de dubiu concluzia se trage în favoarea învinuitului (in dubio pro reo). Acesta este un principiu fundamental al statului de drept.

Există cel puțin alte trei cazuri în care OLAF a tras concluzii la capătul unor anchete pe care el însuși le-a calificat ca incomplete, necomprehensive și lipsite de probe suficiente. Mai mult, nu numai că acele concluzii nu au fost probate dar au fost și divergente, deși situațiile de fapt erau similare atât pe fond cât și pe procedură.

Există cel puțin un caz în care OLAF a tras concluzii chiar fără a ancheta. Astfel, concluzia a fost comunicată public cu mult înainte de încheierea oficială a anchetei.

OLAF este o structură autonomă care funcționează în cadrul CE. A fi autonom nu înseamnă a fi iresponsabil și a nu da socoteală nimănui. Autonomia se referă la instrumentarea cazurilor concrete iar nu la maniera de lucru și abordarea generală care se reflectă în soluții de caz defectuoase. Nefiind o instituție europeană de sine stătătoare, OLAF lucrează sub autoritatea CE care trebuie să îl supravegheze.

Față de cele de mai sus rugăm Comisia să precizeze:

Răspuns dat de dl Barroso în numele Comisiei

(18 decembrie 2012)

2 și 3. Regulamentul (CE) nr. 1073/1999 al Parlamentului European și al Consiliului (3) reglementează prerogativele privind atribuțiile de investigare ale OLAF. OLAF transmite recomandări autorităților judiciare sau disciplinare de resort; rapoartele OLAF reprezintă acte pregătitoare, care nu pot face ca atare obiectul unor acțiuni în anulare și nu aduc atingere prezumției de nevinovăție. OLAF are obligația de a respecta regulile procedurale care se aplică investigațiilor.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009685/12

to the Commission

Adrian Severin (NI)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: OLAF's working methods in the context of the Dalli case

The case of Commissioner John Dalli has shed light on the dubious way in which OLAF operates.

In this case, OLAF drew conclusions based on circumstantial evidence. However, such evidence has value only if corroborated by direct evidence. Circumstantial (indirect) evidence cannot supersede the presumption of innocence. It does not counteract the benefit of the doubt and where doubt exists, the conclusion is drawn in favour of the defendant (in dubio pro reo). This is a fundamental principle of the rule of law.

There are at least three other cases in which OLAF drew conclusions following investigations which OLAF itself described as incomplete, non-exhaustive and lacking sufficient evidence. Furthermore, not only were these conclusions not proven, they were not the same in all cases despite the fact that the situations were similar in terms of content and procedure.

In at least one case, OLAF drew conclusions without conducting any investigation. The conclusion was thus made public long before the investigation was officially finalised.

OLAF is an autonomous body which operates within the framework of the EC. Being autonomous does not mean being irresponsible and unaccountable. Autonomy refers to investigation into specific cases, and not to working methods and a general approach which lead to incorrect solutions to cases. OLAF is not a European institution in its own right and works under the authority of the EC which has the duty to oversee it.

In light of the above, will the Commission say:

(Version française)

2 et 3. Le règlement (CE) 1073/1999 du Parlement et du Conseil (4) encadre les compétences d'enquête de l'OLAF. L'OLAF adresse ses recommandations aux autorités judiciaires ou disciplinaires compétentes; les rapports de l'OLAF sont des actes préparatoires qui ne peuvent être attaqués en annulation en tant que tels, et ils sont sans préjudice de la présomption d'innocence. L'OLAF est tenu de respecter les règles procédurales qui s'appliquent aux enquêtes.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009686/12

a la Comisión

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(23 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Simplificación y comunicación de buenas prácticas entre agricultores

En el contexto de extensión de buenas prácticas ambientales dentro del marco de la reforma de la PAC, los agricultores de las diferentes regiones se ven perdidos en un mar de legislaciones regionales, nacionales y comunitarias. Esta complejidad normativa, reconocida a todos los niveles, debe ser afrontada por los agricultores de manera desigual, premiando a las grandes compañías agrarias, con importantes servicios legales que las asesoran para maximizar su percepción de fondos europeos, frente a pequeños agricultores que no pueden solicitar ni las más básicas subvenciones.

Frente a esta progresiva complicación de las normativas, la Comisión alcanzó el compromiso de simplificación de la PAC, que se viene desarrollando desde 2005 y que, desde el punto de vista de los agricultores, no ha producido un cambio sustancial. Existen numerosas vías para reducir los requisitos administrativos pero, ante el incremento de aspectos recogidos por la normativa, como aspectos ambientales, provisión de bienes públicos, etc., esta simplificación no se están adoptando medidas efectivas para la mayor parte de los agricultores.

Puesto que actualmente la PAC presenta numerosas barreras de entrada de carácter administrativo que deberán ser superadas para garantizar la igualdad de acceso, se debería profundizar en la simplificación. Entre otras medidas, los agricultores deberían poder conocer experiencias de buenas prácticas, especialmente en la toma de medidas ambientales, de otros agricultores europeos.

La Comisión dispone de datos secretos sobre las auditorías del gasto de la PAC que recogen parte de estas prácticas con los que, al menos con los datos que hayan superado los límites temporales de su secreto o que cuenten con el consentimiento de los agricultores auditados, la Comisión podría desarrollar una base de datos de buenas prácticas.

Teniendo en cuenta que una base de datos de estas características puede ayudar a los pequeños y medianos agricultores a cumplir los exigentes criterios permitiendo acceder al conocimiento de los casos que la Comisión considerase ejemplares, y dentro del proceso de simplificación de la PAC,

— ¿Puede la Comisión presentar resultados contrastables del proceso de facilitación de los requisitos administrativos?

— ¿Cuáles son los avances en el tema?

— ¿Se ha planteado la Comisión el uso de la información recogida en las auditorías para la constitución de una base de datos de buenas prácticas que facilite el acceso a la PAC, sobre todo por parte de los pequeños y medianos agricultores con mayores dificultades?

Respuesta del Sr. Cioloş en nombre de la Comisión

(10 de diciembre de 2012)

Durante los últimos años se han llevado a cabo un gran número de proyectos y actividades con vistas a simplificar la PAC. Con el fin de llevar a cabo un registro de los progresos logrados en términos de simplificación técnica, la DG Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural estableció en 2006 un Plan de Acción de Simplificación Permanente. Este Plan se ha desarrollado a través de 72 proyectos, de los cuales 70 ya se han completado. Para más información, la Comisión remite a Su Señoría a dicho Plan:

(http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/simplification/documents/actionplan-update_en.pdf).

La simplificación también es un aspecto importante de las propuestas de reforma de la PAC. La Comisión se ha esforzado en proponer las medidas o instrumentos más sencillos posibles, los cuales sean a la vez herramientas efectivas para alcanzar los objetivos de la política. Los elementos de simplificación se han introducido directamente siempre que ha sido viable. En ocasiones anteriores, la simplificación de la PAC ha sido examinada por el Grupo de Alto Nivel de Partes Implicadas Independientes sobre Cargas Administrativas, el cual ha expresado una opinión favorable con respecto a los esfuerzos de la Comisión (5).

La Comisión no considera la creación de una base de datos cuyo propósito sea divulgar los datos de las auditorías de los gastos de la PAC. Los sistemas de auditoría de la Comisión se realizan en el marco de los organismos pagadores y no en el de los agricultores individuales. Los agricultores tendrían escaso acceso a este tipo de datos, en caso de que lo tuvieran, ya que las conclusiones de las auditorías de la Comisión se centran principalmente en la gestión y los controles de los gastos de la PAC según los ejecutan las administraciones de los Estados miembros.

De todas formas, la legislación sobre la PAC requiere que los Estados miembros establezcan un Sistema de Asesoramiento a las Explotaciones con el fin de ayudar a los agricultores a cumplir sus obligaciones, entre otras cosas, con relación al medio ambiente y al cambio climático.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009686/12

to the Commission

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Simplification of the CAP and the sharing of best practice between farmers

In the context of efforts under the reform of the common agricultural policy (CAP) to share environmental best practice, farmers in various regions find themselves baffled by an array of regional, national and Community legislation. This complex legal situation, recognised as such at all levels, affects some farmers worse than others. The current arrangements put large agricultural companies at an advantage, given that their sizeable legal departments can advise them on how to get the most European funding possible. Meanwhile, small farmers find themselves unable to apply for even the most basic subsidies.

In response to the increasing complexity of agricultural legislation, the Commission agreed to simplify the CAP. However, despite the Commission's efforts in this regard since 2005, farmers feel that there has not been any substantial change. There are various ways to reduce CAP administrative requirements. However, given that the number of aspects covered by agricultural legislation has increased and now include environmental issues and the provision of public goods, the simplification measures being adopted do not benefit most farmers.

In view of the need to tackle the many administrative barriers preventing farmers from having equal access to CAP funding, the Commission should expand its simplification programme. Amongst other measures, European farmers should be able to share best practice with one another, particularly when it comes to environmental decisions.

The Commission has confidential data on audits of CAP expenditure. The data include some examples of best practice; data that have passed into the public domain or that have been authorised for use by audited farmers could be incorporated into a database of best practice.

A database of this kind would enable small and medium-sized farmers to find examples of what the Commission considers best practice and thereby meet demanding CAP criteria. In the context of the simplification of the CAP:

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(10 December 2012)

During the past years, a large number of projects and activities have been carried out with a view to simplifying the CAP. To keep record of the progress made in terms of technical simplification, DG Agriculture and Rural Development did in 2006 set up a ‘rolling’ Simplification Action Plan. The plan has evolved to 72 projects of which 70 have been completed. For further information the Commission would refer the Honourable Member to the Rolling Simplification Action Plan (http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/simplification/documents/actionplan-update_en.pdf)

Simplification is also an important aspect of the CAP reform proposals. The Commission has endeavoured to propose measures or instruments that are as simple as possible, while still being effective tools to achieve the policy objectives. Straightforward simplification elements have been introduced where feasible. Simplification of the CAP has, in an earlier occasion, also been looked at by the High Level Group of Independent Stakeholders on Administrative Burdens. They gave a positive opinion on the efforts of the Commission (6).

The Commission does not consider setting up a database for the purpose of disseminating data on audits of CAP expenditure. Commission audits are system audits at the level of paying agency and not at the level of individual farmer.Farmers would have little, if any, use of having access to this kind of data, as the Commission audit findings mainly concern the management and controls of CAP expenditure as carried out by Member States' administrations.

However, CAP legislation requires Member States to set up a Farm Advisory System for the purpose of helping farmers to fulfil their obligations relating to, inter alia, environment and climate change.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita P-009687/12

a la Comisión

María Auxiliadora Correa Zamora (PPE)

(23 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Barreras no arancelarias para el sector del aceite de oliva en Estados Unidos

En Estados Unidos se ha iniciado el debate sobre la introducción de una «Marketing Order» para el aceite de oliva. Su aprobación supondría la introducción de una serie de barreras de entrada no arancelarias que acarrearían un grave perjuicio a los exportadores de aceite de oliva de la Unión Europea.

¿La Comisión ha mantenido contactos con la Administración norteamericana sobre este asunto? ¿Qué posición tiene la Comisión al respecto? ¿Qué medidas va a adoptar para defender los intereses del sector olivarero europeo e impedir que se adopte esta Ley?

Respuesta del Sr. De Gucht en nombre de la Comisión

(20 de noviembre de 2012)

La Comisión ha seguido el debate sobre el posible establecimiento de una orden de comercialización agrícola («marketing order») sobre el aceite de oliva en los Estados Unidos, que sometería este producto a una nueva definición normalizada y nuevas normas en materia de ensayo y etiquetado.

Los Estados Unidos son con diferencia el mayor mercado de exportación del aceite de oliva de la UE. La aplicación de una orden de comercialización del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos al aceite de oliva importado acarrearía retrasos injustos y un coste adicional para los importadores.

La Comisión trabaja en estrecha colaboración con los Estados miembros interesados y con el Consejo Oleícola Internacional (COI) para defender los intereses de los exportadores de la UE. El asunto se ha abordado en varias ocasiones con las autoridades competentes de los Estados Unidos, en particular con representantes del Senado, de la Cámara de Representantes y del Departamento de Agricultura, así como con el Representante de Comercio de los Estados Unidos. Se planteó también a nivel político, en el marco del diálogo transatlántico. La Comisión seguirá atenta al debate para evitar todo impacto negativo sobre las exportaciones de la UE a los Estados Unidos.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-009687/12

to the Commission

María Auxiliadora Correa Zamora (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Non-tariff barriers for the olive oil sector in the USA

A debate is taking place in the USA over the introduction of a Marketing Order for olive oil. If the Marketing Order is approved, a number of non-tariff entry barriers could be introduced, which would prove very damaging for EU olive oil exporters.

Has the Commission been in contact with the US authorities over this matter? What is the Commission’s position? What measures will the Commission take to defend the interests of the European olive oil sector and prevent this law from being passed?

Answer given by Mr De Gucht on behalf of the Commission

(20 November 2012)

The Commission has been monitoring the debate on the possible establishment of an agricultural marketing order on olive oil that would impose a new standard definition, testing methods and labelling for olive oil in the United States (US).

The US represents, by far, the EU's most important export market for EU olive oil exporters. Should a US Department for Agriculture marketing order apply to imported olive oil, this would create unfair delays and additional costs for importers.

The Commission is working together in close cooperation with relevant Member States and the International Olive Council (OIC) to support the interests of the EU exporters. The issue has been raised several times with the relevant US authorities, including representatives of the House, the Senate, US Department for Agriculture and the US Trade Representative. This has also been raised at political level, in the framework of the transatlantic dialogue. The Commission will continue to monitor the debate with the aim of preventing any negative impact on the EU exports to the US.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009688/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: Corruzione in Italia

Come confermato da recenti statistiche internazionali, la diffusione della corruzione in Italia ha condotto il nostro paese a classificarsi tra gli ultimi posti in Europa. Le pratiche corruttive scoraggiano la competitività dal momento che incidono sulla fiducia dei mercati e delle imprese straniere.

Alla luce di quanto precede, si interroga la Commissione per sapere:

Risposta di Cecilia Malmström a nome della Commissione

(4 dicembre 2012)

La Commissione segue attentamente l’attuazione delle politiche anticorruzione da parte degli Stati membri, Italia inclusa, e si avvarrà per questo del meccanismo di relazione dell’UE sulla lotta alla corruzione («relazione anticorruzione dell’UE») istituito nel giugno del 2011 (7). La relazione anticorruzione dell’UE permetterà di valutare l'impegno degli Stati membri, di segnalare problemi sistemici e, al contempo, di identificare le buone pratiche e incoraggiare l’apprendimento tra pari. Il meccanismo di relazione intende stimolare la volontà politica laddove la lotta anticorruzione langue, promuovere i successi conseguiti e incoraggiare gli Stati membri a rispettare gli standard concordati a livello internazionale. La relazione sarà gestita dalla Commissione e pubblicata ogni due anni a partire dalla seconda metà del 2013. La relazione anticorruzione dell’UE includerà raccomandazioni specifiche per paese e raccomandazioni generali, anche sul seguito da dare a livello dell'UE.

La Commissione conosce bene le particolari difficoltà della lotta anticorruzione in Italia e proprio per questo la incoraggia ad attuare la nuova normativa anticorruzione adottata di recente, a continuare e ad accelerare il processo di riforma della lotta anticorruzione, a eliminare eventuali ostacoli che favoriscono un clima di impunità e a dare seguito alle recenti raccomandazioni del Gruppo di Stati del Consiglio d’Europa contro la corruzione in tema di finanziamento dei partiti e incriminazioni per corruzione in Italia.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009688/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Corruption in Italy

As confirmed by recent international statistics, the spread of corruption in Italy is such that our country ranks among the worst offenders in Europe. Corrupt practices harm competitiveness since they undermine the confidence of the markets and foreign companies.

In the light of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(4 December 2012)

The Commission is closely following the implementation of anti-corruption policies in all Member States, including Italy, in the framework of the EU anti-corruption reporting mechanism (‘EU Anti-Corruption Report’) set up in June 2011 (8). The EU Anti-Corruption Report will assess the Member States' efforts against corruption, exposing systemic problems, while also identifying good practices and encouraging peer-learning. This reporting mechanism is an instrument which aims at boosting political will where the fight against corruption is lagging behind, promoting success stories and encouraging Member States to maintain the internationally-agreed standards. The report is managed by the Commission and will be published every two years, starting in mid-2013. Tailor-made recommendations for each Member State, as well as overall recommendations, including recommendations that aim at a follow-up at EU level, will also be comprised in each Report.

The Commission is fully aware of the particular challenges that the fight against corruption raises in Italy. In this context, the Commission encourages the implementation of the newly adopted anti-corruption legislation, the continuation and speeding up of the anti-corruption reform process, the removal of any obstacles that favour a climate of impunity for corruption and the follow-up of the most recent recommendations issued by the Council of Europe Group of States against Corruption on party funding and incrimination of corruption in Italy.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009689/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Sgomberi e diritto all'istruzione nello Zimbabwe

Nel 2005 il governo dello Zimbabwe lanciò una campagna di sgomberi forzati.

L'obiettivo dichiarato della cosiddetta Operazione Murambatsvina era quello di dare respiro ai centri urbani, rimandando nelle campagne gli ultimi arrivati.

L'Operazione Murambatsvina ha avuto come conseguenza l'interruzione della scolarizzazione di circa 220 mila minori tra i 5 e i 18 anni.

Gli sgomberi forzati, spesso seguiti dalla demolizione delle abitazioni e dalla distruzione di altri beni, hanno mandato in crisi le famiglie che non hanno più potuto sostenere le spese per le rette scolastiche. In alcune aree le scuole sono state demolite, mettendo brutalmente fine all'istruzione di intere comunità. Alcuni residenti sono stati condotti con la forza dal governo in aree rurali, senza avere il tempo di ottenere il trasferimento dei propri figli in altre scuole.

Alla luce dei fatti più sopra esposti, può l'Alto Rappresentante far sapere se è a conoscenza della vicenda e se intende intervenire sulla questione attraverso misure atte a sostenere un'istruzione primaria aperta, obbligatoria e senza discriminazione per tutte le bambine e tutti i bambini?

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

(31 gennaio 2013)

L’Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente è a conoscenza del problema segnalato dall’onorevole parlamentare relativo agli sgomberi e al diritto all'istruzione nello Zimbabwe.

Dal 2002 l'Unione europea sostiene l’istruzione primaria obbligatoria e aperta a tutti nello Zimbabwe attraverso vari programmi; per esempio ha finanziato il programma di transizione e riforma del settore dell'istruzione fino al 2006, il programma di sostegno per gli orfani e i bambini vulnerabili dal 2007 al 2010, e, più di recente, è stata in prima linea nel processo di creazione dell’ETF (Education Transition Fund). Il programma di sostegno ha aiutato 397 000 orfani e bambini vulnerabili e ha migliorato il loro accesso ai servizi sociali di base, compresa l'istruzione, e il livello di protezione dagli abusi. Attualmente l’Unione europea è uno dei principali finanziatori dell’ETF, un meccanismo di finanziamento gestito dall’UNICEF che mira ad aiutare lo Zimbabwe a conseguire l’obiettivo dell’istruzione universale. Le azioni finanziate dall'ETF sono rivolte a tutte le scuole primarie dello Zimbabwe con un’attenzione particolare alle cosiddette scuole satellite, che accolgono, tra l’altro, gli sfollati interni e la popolazione trasferita nelle aree di reinsediamento. I bambini che frequentano le scuole satellite hanno beneficiato di iniziative di notevole impatto attuate dall’ETF. Una verifica condotta dall’UNICEF ha dimostrato che la distribuzione dei testi scolastici avviene senza discriminazioni in tutte le scuole esistenti nel paese, comprese le scuole satellite. Lo Zimbabwe è oggi uno dei pochi paesi africani in cui il rapporto alunni/testi scolastici è di 1 a 1.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009689/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Evacuations and right to education in Zimbabwe

In 2005 the government of Zimbabwe launched a campaign of forced evacuations.

The stated aim of Operation Murambatsvina was to bring some relief to urban centres by sending new arrivals back to the countryside.

As a result of Operation Murambatsvina, the education of some 220 000 children aged between 5 and 18 was interrupted.

The forced evacuations, often followed by the demolition of homes and the destruction of other property, meant that families were thrown into crisis, no longer being able to afford school fees. In some areas, schools were demolished and the education of whole communities was brought to a violent halt. Some residents were taken forcibly by the government to rural areas and had no time to have their children transferred to other schools.

Could the High Representative say whether she is aware of the situation and whether she intends to act in this matter by taking measures to support open, compulsory and non-discriminatory primary education for all children?

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

(31 January 2013)

With regard to the written question on evictions and the right to education in Zimbabwe, the HR/VP is aware of the issue referred to by the Honourable Member.

The European Union has been supporting primary, compulsory and non-discriminatory primary education in Zimbabwe since 2002 through various programmes, including the Education Transition and Reform Programme until 2006, the Programme of Support to Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) since 2007 to 2010 and, more recently, the EU was at the forefront of the Education Transition Fund (ETF) creation. The Programme of Support has benefitted 397 000 orphans and other vulnerable children and increased access of OVC in Zimbabwe to basic social services including education and improved their protection from abuse. Currently the EU is one of the major contributors to the ETF, a funding mechanism managed by Unicef that aims at helping Zimbabwe achieve universal education. Actions funded by the ETF target all primary schools in Zimbabwe. It has a particular focus on the so-called satellite schools, which cater, among other groups, for internally displaced population as well as for population that has been moved to resettlement areas. Children attending satellite schools have benefitted from high impact actions implemented by ETF. A verification exercise conducted by Unicef has showed that textbook distribution reached all existing schools in Zimbabwe without discrimination, including satellite schools. Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries in Africa having reached a 1:1 pupil/textbook ratio.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009690/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: Associazione dedicata alle donne

A Milano nasce uno spazio pubblico per le donne. L'Associazione porta avanti un progetto che mira a creare uno spazio inclusivo tutto dedicato alle donne, dove la condivisione è funzionale all'integrazione. Si tratta di un luogo di promozione sociale in cui si intende dar voce, innanzitutto, alle giovani e alle migranti.

Alla luce di quanto precede, si interroga la Commissione per sapere:

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(7 dicembre 2012)

Nell’ambito della parità di diritti e di trattamento tra i sessi la Commissione prevede finanziamenti sotto forma di sovvenzioni per progetti o organizzazioni mediante i programmi PROGRESS e DAPHNE III. PROGRESS è il programma dell’UE a favore dell'occupazione e della solidarietà sociale. Il programma DAPHNE III mira invece a contribuire a proteggere i bambini, i giovani e le donne da tutte le forme di violenza e a conseguire un livello elevato di tutela della salute, benessere e coesione sociale. Le parti interessate possono presentare la propria candidatura presentando domanda per le proposte pubblicate nell’ambito dei programmi. La Commissione non sostiene finanziariamente ulteriori iniziative ad hoc.

La strategia per la parità tra donne e uomini per il periodo 2010-2015 è stata adottata nel settembre 2010 e riflette l'impegno della Commissione a procedere in questo senso e rafforzare le sue attività nell’ambito dell'uguaglianza tra i sessi. La strategia ribadisce una doppia impostazione che combina integrazione della dimensione di genere e provvedimenti specifici in sei aree prioritarie ben definite. In seguito all’adozione della strategia è stata conseguita una serie di risultati importanti. Tra gli esempi rientrano l'adozione di raccomandazioni specifiche per i singoli paesi nell’ambito degli ultimi due semestri europei UE2020, il lancio della Giornata europea della parità di retribuzione nel marzo 2011, la relazione del 2012 sui progressi delle donne nel processo decisionale economico nell’UE, l’adozione del pacchetto di misure per i diritti delle vittime come uno strumento per contrastare la violenza contro le donne e l’applicazione della pertinente normativa consolidata dell’UE nei paesi candidati. Un riesame intermedio della strategia è previsto per il 2013 al fine di valutare i progressi compiuti e le future tappe principali.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009690/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Association dedicated to women

A public space for women is emerging in Milan. The Association is launching a project to create an inclusive space entirely dedicated to women, where sharing underpins integration. It is a place of social advancement where the primary aim is to give a voice to young people and migrants.

I therefore wish to ask the Commission the following:

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(7 December 2012)

In the field of gender equality, the Commission provides funding in the form of grants to projects or organisations through the PROGRESS and the DAPHNE III programmes. PROGRESS is the EU's employment and social solidarity programme. The DAPHNE III programme aims to contribute to the protection of children, young people and women against all forms of violence and attain a high level of health protection, well-being and social cohesion. Interested parties can apply by submitting an application for the calls for proposals published under the programmes. The Commission does not sponsor additional ad-hoc initiatives.

The strategy for equality between women and men for the period 2010-2015 was adopted in September 2010 and reflects the Commission’s commitment to continue and step up its activities in the field of gender equality. The strategy reaffirms the dual approach of gender mainstreaming and the adoption of specific measures in the six priority areas identified. Since adoption of the strategy, a number of important results have been achieved. Examples include the adoption of country-specific recommendations in the framework of the last two EU2020 European Semesters, the launch of the European Equal Pay Day in March 2011, the 2012 Progress report on women in economic decision-making in the EU, the adoption of the Victims' rights package as an instrument to tackle violence against women and the continuous monitoring of transposition and implementation of the relevant EU acquis in candidate countries. A mid-term review of the strategy is foreseen for 2013. It will take stock of progress achieved and the main milestones ahead.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009691/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: Sicurezza dei vaccini antinfluenzali

In Italia sono state ritirate oltre due milioni di dosi di vaccino antinfluenzale in seguito alla segnalazione dell'azienda produttrice che ha riscontrato potenziali pericoli per la salute.

La campagna vaccinale non era stata avviata ed è stato scongiurato qualsiasi danno alla salute dei cittadini. Si tratta, in ogni caso, di un episodio che avrebbe potuto compromettere la salute dei pazienti.

Alla luce di quanto precede, può la Commissione far sapere quali misure sono previste al fine di garantire la sicurezza delle campagne vaccinali?

Risposta di Tonio Borg a nome della Commissione

(17 dicembre 2012)

La Commissione desidera rassicurare l'onorevole deputato quanto alla sicurezza dei prodotti medicinali usati nel contesto delle campagne di vaccinazione stagionali. L'incidente menzionato dall'onorevole deputato dimostra che la procedura in atto fornisce le necessarie assicurazioni.

Quando è stato rilevato il supposto problema di qualità, le autorità italiane hanno adottato tempestivamente un intervento cautelativo e allertato tutti gli altri Stati membri, la Commissione e l'Agenzia europea per i medicinali. L'autorità competente italiana ha svolto un ruolo guida, per conto dell'UE, nell'investigazione del presunto difetto di qualità. Di recente l'Agenzia italiana del farmaco ha sollevato il divieto d'uso di detti vaccini contro l'influenza stagionale. Tale decisione è stata presa sulla base dei documenti forniti dall'impresa, dei risultati dei test analitici e dei test eseguiti dal laboratorio ufficiale di controllo italiano. Si è inoltre deciso di inviare una lettera agli operatori sanitari per fornire loro istruzioni su come somministrare il vaccino e per chiarire le condizioni per l'immissione di partite del vaccino sul mercato.

Sinora non vi è nessuna indicazione quanto al fatto che il supposto difetto qualitativo abbia un impatto sulla qualità, la sicurezza o l'efficacia dei vaccini in questione. La Commissione tuttavia, in collaborazione con l'Agenzia europea per i medicinali, continuerà a seguire da vicino la questione e in particolare le eventuali reazioni avverse registrate nell'Unione europea.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009691/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Flu vaccine safety

In Italy over 2 million doses of flu vaccine have been withdrawn following an announcement by the manufacturer that it had encountered potential health hazards.

The vaccination campaign had not begun and public health was not put at risk. However, this episode could have compromised patient health.

In the light of the above, can the Commission tell us what measures are planned to make sure that vaccination campaigns are safe?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(17 December 2012)

The Commission would like to reassure the Honourable Member about the safety of medicinal products used in the context of seasonal vaccination campaigns. The incident referred to by the Honourable Member demonstrates that the procedures in place provide the necessary reassurance.

When the suspected quality problem was detected, the Italian authorities took prompt precautionary action and alerted all other Member States, the Commission and the European Medicines Agency. The Italian competent authority took the lead on behalf of the EU in investigating the suspected quality defect. Recently, the Italian Medicines Agency lifted the ban on the use of the seasonal influenza vaccines in question. This decision was taken on the basis of the documents provided by the company, the reported outcomes of the analytical tests and the tests performed by the Italian Official Control Laboratory. It was also decided to send a letter to healthcare professionals to provide instructions on how to administer the vaccine and to clarify the conditions to release batches on the market.

So far, there is no indication that the suspected quality defect has any impact on the quality, safety or efficacy of the vaccines in question. However, the Commission, in cooperation with the European Medicines Agency, will continue to monitor closely the issue and in particular any possible adverse reactions in the European Union.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009692/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: Record della disoccupazione in Europa

Un nuovo studio di Eurostat fotografa la situazione del mercato del lavoro nei vari paesi europei. In particolar modo la situazione appare drammatica per quanto riguarda la disoccupazione giovanile.

Secondo i dati in Grecia ben il 55 % dei giovani al di sotto dei 25 anni di età non ha un lavoro, il 53 % in Spagna. Questi dati, però, non tengono conto delle persone che hanno smesso di cercare lavoro. Con il risultato che le percentuali «reali» rischiano di essere molto più alte.

Alla luce dei fatti sopraesposti, s'interroga dunque la Commissione per sapere:

Risposta di László Andor a nome della Commissione

(20 dicembre 2012)

L'occupazione giovanile è una delle priorità fondamentali della strategia Europa 2020. L'iniziativa faro «Youth on the Move» si concentra sulla mobilità in campo professionale ed educativo.

Nell'analisi annuale della crescita 2012 l'occupazione giovanile è stato uno dei settori principali di analisi; la Commissione ha invitato ad adottare azioni volte a garantire la qualità dei contratti di apprendistato e di tirocinio in una serie di riforme del sistema di istruzione e formazione.

Circa 10 miliardi di euro sono stati destinati ai programmi nel settore della gioventù e non meno di 658.000 giovani avranno la possibilità di partecipare in otto Stati membri nel quadro dell'iniziativa «Opportunità per i giovani» (9). La Spagna ha riassegnato 1,1 miliardi di euro e anche la Grecia ha adottato misure per attuare azioni specifiche destinate ai giovani.

Il 5 dicembre 2012 la Commissione ha adottato un pacchetto per l'occupazione giovanile (10) (YEP) che comprende una proposta di raccomandazione del Consiglio volta a istituire una garanzia per i giovani (11), con la quale si invitano gli Stati membri a garantire che tutti i giovani di età inferiore a 25 anni ricevano un'offerta di lavoro di buona qualità, il proseguimento degli studi, un apprendistato o tirocinio entro quattro mesi dall'uscita dal sistema d'insegnamento formale o dall'inizio della disoccupazione.

YEP comprende inoltre un'iniziativa volta a migliorare la qualità dei tirocini, nonché iniziative mirate sugli apprendistati (Alleanza Europea per l'Apprendistato) e la mobilità professionale, che dovrebbero contribuire ad aumentare l'occupabilità dei giovani, riducendo in tal modo il numero dei cosiddetti NEETS (young people neither in employment, education or training — giovani disoccupati al di fuori di ogni ciclo di istruzione e formazione).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009692/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Record unemployment in Europe

A new Eurostat study provides a snapshot of the situation on the labour market in the various European countries. The situation as regards youth unemployment seems especially alarming.

The data shows that some 55% of young people under 25 in Greece are without a job, while in Spain the figure is 53%. However, these data do not take into account people who have stopped looking for work, so that the ‘real’ percentages may be much higher.

In the light of these facts, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(20 December 2012)

Youth employment is one of the key priorities of the Europe 2020 strategy. The flagship ‘Youth on the Move’ initiative focuses on labour and educational mobility.

In the Annual Growth Survey 2012 youth employment was a key area with the Commission calling for actions to ensure quality apprenticeships and traineeship contracts and reforms of the education and training system.

About EUR10 billion have been reallocated to youth-related programmes and at least 658,000 young people are likely to benefit in eight Member States as a result of the Youth Opportunities Initiative (12). Spain has redirected EUR1.1billion and Greece has also taken steps to implement special actions for young people.

On 5 December 2012 the Commission adopted a Youth Employment Package (13) (YEP) that includes a proposal for a Council recommendation on Establishing a Youth Guarantee (14), calling on Member States to ensure that all young people under 25 receive a good quality offer of employment, continued education, an apprenticeship or a traineeship within a four months of leaving formal education or becoming unemployed.

Additionally, the YEP includes an initiative to enhance the quality of traineeships, as well as targeted initiatives on apprenticeships (European Alliance for Apprenticeships) and job mobility that all should contribute to increase the employability of young people and thus reduce the number of NEETS (young people neither in employment, education or training).

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009693/12

alla Commissione

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: Scarse risorse destinate ai disabili

L'analisi approfondita sui servizi offerti in Italia alle persone con disabilità, condotta da un noto istituto di ricerca socio-economica, ha concluso che i problemi sociali ed economici dei malati colpiti da Parkinson, sindrome di Down, autismo e sclerosi multipla in Italia non sono presi in considerazione con la dovuta attenzione.

Il comparto della disabilità non è una priorità non soltanto per la destinazione delle risorse economiche ma anche nell'ambito delle politiche di inserimento lavorativo.

Alla luce di quanto precede, si interroga la Commissione per sapere:

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(21 dicembre 2012)

La Commissione non dispone di dati sulle risorse economiche destinate dagli Stati membri alle persone con disabilità.

Le misure adottate a livello di UE e di Stati membri per sostenere l’integrazione delle persone con disabilità nel mercato del lavoro variano notevolmente.

Il Fondo sociale europeo interviene a sostegno dell’integrazione di tali persone nel mercato del lavoro, in particolare attraverso le proprie iniziative in materia di inclusione sociale. In Italia, tutti i programmi operativi cofinanziati dall’FSE presentano un asse prioritario a favore dell’inclusione sociale.

Nella strategia europea sulla disabilità (15) la Commissione si impegna ad affrontare la situazione dei disabili sotto il profilo dell’occupazione anche attraverso l’attuazione della strategia Europa 2020 e il semestre europeo per il coordinamento delle politiche economiche. Nell’ambito di tale operazione, il Consiglio adotta raccomandazioni specifiche per paese destinate agli Stati membri, comprese misure volte a promuovere l’occupabilità dei gruppi vulnerabili. Un quadro più dettagliato delle misure previste a livello di UE figura nell’elenco delle azioni (2010-2015) (16) che accompagna la strategia europea in materia di disabilità.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009693/12

to the Commission

Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris (PPE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Limited resources for the disabled

A well-known socioeconomic research institute has made an in-depth study of services for the disabled in Italy and has concluded that insufficient attention is paid to the social and economic problems of those suffering from Parkinson's disease, Down's syndrome, autism and multiple sclerosis in Italy.

The area of disability fails to receive priority either in terms of the allocation of financial resources or as regards policies on labour market integration.

I therefore wish to ask the Commission:

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(21 December 2012)

The Commission does not dispose of data on the amounts of Member State spending relevant to persons with disabilities.

There is a substantial variety of measures taken at EU as well as Member State level to support the integration of persons with disabilities on the labour market.

The European Social Fund intervenes to support integration of the labour market of people of disabilities, in particular via its initiatives in the social inclusion area. In Italy, all ESF co-funded operational programmes have a priority axes devoted to social inclusion.

In the European Disability Strategy (17) the Commission undertakes to tackle the employment situation of people with disabilities also through the implementation of the Europe 2020 strategy and the European Semester of economic policy coordination. Within this exercise, the Council adopts Country Specific Recommendations that are addressed to Member States also including measures to foster employability of vulnerable groups. A more detailed overview of envisaged measures at the EU level can be found in the list of actions (2010-2015), (18) accompanying the European Disability Strategy.

(Suomenkielinen versio)

Kirjallisesti vastattava kysymys P-009694/12

komissiolle

Riikka Manner (ALDE)

(23. lokakuuta 2012)

Aihe: Valtiontukisääntöjen tarkistus Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön yhteydessä

Valtiontuen sääntelykehystä on tarkistettava uuden monivuotisen rahoituskehyksen käynnistämistä varten.

Nykyisiä valtiontukisääntöjä ei ole suunniteltu Euroopan alueelliseen yhteistyöhön sopivaksi. Useita maita koskevassa järjestelmässä turvallisin ratkaisu vaikuttaisi olevan valtiontuen myöntäminen de minimis ‐säännön nojalla, mikä kuitenkin sisältää suhteettoman suuria hallinnollisia toimia verrattuna suhteellisen pieniin tukimääriin, joita Euroopan rajaseutuyhteistyötä, valtioiden välistä yhteistyötä ja alueiden välistä yhteistyötä koskevien ohjelmien yhteydessä saadaan. Useimpien Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön ohjelmien osalta valtiontukisääntöjen tarkistus voisi siten osoittautua tarpeelliseksi, sillä tätä kautta ohjelmiin voitaisiin ottaa mukaan yksityisiä hankekumppaneita – sekä innovatiivisempia hankkeita – ja sitä myöten edistää vielä enemmän Eurooppa 2020 ‐strategian tavoitteita.

Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön ohjelmat ja hankkeet kattavat useita eri aloja, joten useita yleisiä ryhmäpoikkeuksia olisi sovellettava samanaikaisesti. Useimmille ohjelmien hallinnasta vastaaville tahoille tämä ei ole mahdollista, sillä se saattaisi sisältää monimutkaisia yhteisrahoituksen muotoja, jotka vaihtelevat yhteistyökumppaneista ja ‐toimista riippuen.

Nykyiset valtiontukisäännöt pakottavat monia ohjelmia järjestelmällisesti poistamaan tai vähentämään yhteistyöhankkeissaan mukana olevia tuottavia vaiheita tai yksityisiä hankekumppaneita, vaikka molemmat tahot hyötyisivätkin ohjelmista. Tämä koskee erityisesti innovointia, vaihtoehtoisia energiamuotoja, pk-yritysten kehittämistä sekä koulutusta ja liikennettä – kaikki aloja, joita on korostettu Eurooppa 2020 ‐strategiassa. Jotta Euroopan alueellisesta yhteistyöstä voitaisiin saada tehokkaampi Eurooppa 2020 ‐strategian tavoitteiden täyttämiseen tarkoitettu väline, yhteistyötoiminnan haittatekijöitä olisi arvioitava huolella ennen kuin uusia sääntöjä aletaan soveltaa. Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön hankkeita toteutetaan – ja ne voivat tuottaa hyötyä – samanaikaisesti köyhemmillä ja rikkaammilla alueilla. Tehokkaampien hankkeiden luomista varten rikkaampien alueiden hankekumppaneita olisi kannustettava yhteistyöhön ja siten välittämään tietoa köyhemmille alueille.

Yksi mahdollinen ratkaisu ongelmaan olisi Euroopan alueellista yhteistyötä koskeva ryhmäpoikkeus, joka sallisi yhden yhteisrahoitusosuuden Euroopan alueellista yhteistyötä varten edunsaajien talouden alasta tai alueellisesta sijainnista riippumatta. Onko komissio aloittanut valtiontukeen liittyvien ongelmien ja niiden ratkaisujen määrittämisen Euroopan alueellista yhteistyötä koskevan erityistapauksen osalta, ja aiotaanko tässä yhteydessä hyväksyä valtiontukeen liittyvä yhteinen lähestymistapa vuosille 2014‐2020?

Joaquín Almunian komission puolesta antama vastaus

(27. marraskuuta 2012)

Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön hankkeilla tuetaan niihin osallistuvilla alueilla kehitystä monella alalla, ja hankkeiden toiminnasta olisi tehtävä niin vaivatonta kuin mahdollista. Valtiontukisääntöjä taas on sovellettava johdonmukaisesti, jotta kilpailu ei vääristy kohtuuttomasti. Valtiontukisääntöjen noudattaminen ei kuitenkaan käytännössä aina ole helppoa varsinkaan niissä Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön hankkeissa, joihin ei sovelleta de minimis ‐asetusta. Tämä johtuu siitä, että Euroopan alueellinen yhteistyö perustuu toimintaan tietyllä alueella eikä tietyllä toimialalla, jolloin hankkeissa on usein monenlaista toimintaa sekä useita yhteistyökumppaneita ja jäsenvaltioita. Ongelma on kuitenkin yleinen ja tyypillinen kaikille hankkeille, jotka saavat monenlaista tukea tai joihin osallistuu useita yhteistyökumppaneita.

Yleinen ryhmäpoikkeusasetus sallii jo nyt ryhmäpoikkeuksen myöntämisen yhdelle tai useammalle 26:n eri luokan mukaiselle tuelle. Asetus tarjoaa siis mahdollisuuden ryhmäpoikkeukseen sellaisille Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön hankkeille, joiden tavoitteet sisältyvät yhteen tai useampaan kyseisistä 26 luokasta. Yleistä ryhmäpoikkeusasetusta tarkistaessaan komissio tarkastelee sitä myös Euroopan alueellisen yhteistyön kannalta. Pelkästään yhteistyötoimintaan (joka ei liity tiettyyn alueeseen tai toimialaan) perustuvien ryhmäpoikkeusten käyttöönotto ei sopisi valtiontukiuudistuksen tavoitteisiin, sillä uudistuksella pyritään varmistamaan, että myönnetty tuki täyttää tietyt sisällölliset vaatimukset (esim. täydentävyys, kannustava vaikutus, markkinoiden toimintapuutteiden korjaaminen). Sikäli kun valtiontukiuudistuksessa laajennetaan ryhmäpoikkeusten käyttöä, uudet mahdollisuudet voivat kuitenkin hyödyttää myös Euroopan alueellista yhteistyötä.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-009694/12

to the Commission

Riikka Manner (ALDE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Revision of state aid rules in the context of European territorial cooperation

The regulatory framework for state aid is to be revised in support of an effective launch of the new multiannual financial framework.

The current state aid rules were not designed to accommodate European territorial cooperation (ETC). In a multi-country environment, the safest solution seems to be to grant state aid under the de minimis rule, which, however, entails disproportionately burdensome administrative efforts relative to the comparatively small subsidies provided in the context of the ETC cross-border, transnational and interregional programmes. For most ETC programmes, therefore, revising state aid rules could prove to be a necessary step, as it would allow those programmes to take on board private partners — and more innovative projects — and thereby to contribute even more to the Europe 2020 goals.

Since ETC programmes and projects are cross-sectoral, many general block exemptions would have to be applied at the same time. This is not manageable for most programme administrations, as it could imply complicated patterns of co-financing rates that vary among cooperation partners and cooperation activities.

Current state aid rules force many programmes systematically to eliminate or reduce the productive stages and private partners involved in their cooperation projects, even though both would benefit the programmes. This is particularly relevant in the fields of innovation, alternative energy, SME development, and training and transport — the fields highlighted in the Europe 2020 strategy. In order to make ETC a more effective tool for fulfilling the Europe 2020 goals, obstacles to the functioning of ETC should be carefully evaluated before the new regulations are applied. ETC projects are carried out in — and can benefit — poorer and richer regions at the same time. In order to create more effective projects, more partners in richer regions should be encouraged to cooperate, thus transferring their knowledge to poorer regions.

An ETC block exemption that allows for a single co-financing rate for cooperation with ETC, regardless of the economic sector or the region where beneficiaries are located, is one possible answer. Has the Commission begun to define the problems, and their solutions, associated with state aid in the special case of the ETC, and will a common approach to state aid for 2014-2020 be adopted in this context?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(27 November 2012)

European Territorial Cooperation (ETC) projects contribute to multi-sectoral development strategies of participating regions and obstacles to their functioning should be minimised. At the same time, consistent application of state aid rules is needed to avoid undue distortions of competition. Ensuring compliance with state aid rules may in practice sometimes be more difficult, especially for ETC projects which fall outside the scope of the de minimis Regulation. This is because ETC is organised geographically and not by economic sectors, and because projects often involve various activities, partners and Member States. However, this is a general difficulty, inherent to any project encompassing several types of aid measures or involving different partners.

Already today the General block exemption Regulation (GBER) allows for block exemption of aid in one or several of 26 different categories, thus providing a framework for block exempting ETC projects pursuing objectives covered by any (or several) of these 26 categories. The Commission does examine ETC in the context of the GBER review. Additional block exemptions based on the sole cooperation activity (irrespective of economic sector or region) would not fit well with the objectives of state aid modernisation, which seeks to ensure that aid fulfils key substantive criteria (e.g. additionality, real incentive effect, addressing real market failures). However, to the extent that state aid modernisation aims to extend the possibilities for block exemptions, this may also be relevant for ETC.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-009695/12

an die Kommission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(23. Oktober 2012)

Betrifft: Italienisches Urteil: Gefährlichkeit von elektromagnetischen Strahlen

Ein Urteil des Italienischen Kassationsgerichtshofes vom 12.10.2012 mit der Nummer 17438 (Cassazione civile, sez. lavoro, sentenza 12.10.2012 n° 17438) sorgt für Aufregung. Das Urteil befand, dass das tägliche Telefonieren mit dem Handy schuld an einem Tumor sei, an dem ein 50-jähriger Manager erkrankt ist. Der Italiener hatte angegeben, zwölf Jahre lang durchschnittlich sechs Stunden pro Tag am Handy verbracht zu haben. Aufgrunddessen hätten die Ärzte bei ihm einen Trigeminus-Tumor diagnostiziert. Gestützt durch dieses Aufsehen erregende Gerichtsurteil drohen jetzt Sammelklagen in ganz Italien. Selbst in Langzeitstudien, die beweisen hätten sollen, dass jahrelanges Telefonieren mit dem Mobiltelefon sich nicht negativ auswirkt, wurde herausgefunden, dass ein „leichtes bis mittleres Risiko“ dauerhafter intensiver Mobiltelephonie nicht ausgeschlossen werden könne. Im Juni 2012 hat auch die Weltgesundheitsorganisation die von den Mobiltelefonen ausgesendeten Strahlen als „möglicherweise krebserregend“ eingestuft.

Kann die Kommission dazu folgende Fragen beantworten:

Antwort von Herrn Šefčovič im Namen der Kommission

(27. November 2012)

„Neu auftretende und neu identifizierte Gesundheitsrisiken“ (SCENIHR). Gemäß den jüngsten Schlussfolgerungen (2009)

belegen drei unterschiedliche Forschungsansätze (epidemiologische Untersuchungen sowie

and

durchgeführte Studien), dass es unwahrscheinlich ist, dass die Exposition gegenüber elektromagnetischer Strahlung von Mobiltelefonen zu einem erhöhten Auftreten von Krebserkrankungen bei Menschen führt.

„Neu auftretende und neu identifizierte Gesundheitsrisiken“ vorgenommen und voraussichtlich Ende März 2013 zur öffentlichen Einsichtnahme vorliegen. Bei seiner Arbeit berücksichtigt der wissenschaftliche Ausschuss sämtliche verfügbaren wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009695/12

to the Commission

Franz Obermayr (NI)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: Judgment given in Italy: hazards of electromagnetic radiation

A judgment given by the Italian Court of Cassation on 12 October 2012 (No 17438 (Cassazione civile, sez. lavoro, sentenza 12.10.2012 n° 17438)) is causing a stir. The court held that a 50-year-old manager had developed a tumour on account of his daily use of a mobile phone. The Italian had stated that over a period of 12 years he had, on average, used his mobile phone for six hours per day. Doctors had consequently, he claimed, diagnosed him as suffering from a tumour of the trigeminus. Supported by this high-profile judgment, class actions are now impending throughout Italy. Even long-term studies intended to prove that using a mobile phone for years did not affect health revealed that the possibility of a ‘slight to moderate risk’ could not be excluded if a mobile phone was used intensively over a long period. In June 2012, the World Health Organisation also classified radiation from mobile phones as ‘possibly carcinogenic’.

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(27 November 2012)

, three independent lines of evidence (epidemiological,

and

studies) show that exposure to mobile phones radiation is unlikely to lead to an increase of cancer incidence in humans.

(Svensk version)

Frågor för skriftligt besvarande E-009696/12

till kommissionen

Christian Engström (Verts/ALE)

(23 oktober 2012)

Angående: Tobaksdirektivet och det svenska snuset

Den senaste tidens turbulens kring översynen av tobaksdirektivet har satt strålkastarljuset på hanteringen av frågan om det svenska snuset.

Svar från Maroš Šefčovič på kommissionens vägnar

(28 november 2012)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009696/12

to the Commission

Christian Engström (Verts/ALE)

(23 October 2012)

Subject: The Tobacco Directive and Swedish oral tobacco (snus)

The recent turmoil surrounding the revision of the Tobacco Directive has highlighted the handling of the issue of Swedish oral tobacco (snus).

Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the Commission

(28 November 2012)

(Svensk version)

Frågor för skriftligt besvarande P-009697/12

till kommissionen

Carl Schlyter (Verts/ALE)

(24 oktober 2012)

Angående: Vargstammen i Sverige

Det svenska Naturvårdsverket, ansvarig myndighet och expert inom dess område har kommit fram till att den svenska vargstammen behöver minst 380 individer samt att minst sju vargar utifrån vandrar in och fortplantar sig under varje årtionde, för att anses livskraftig. Den svenska miljöministern Lena Ek påstår att stammen inte behöver mer än 180 individer.

Med tanke på tidigare konflikter om den svenska vargstammen, dess bevarande och expertmyndighetens slutsats om 380 vargar, vad säger kommissionen om miljöministerns uttalande om att 180 vargar skulle vara tillräckligt? Avser kommissionen vidta några åtgärder?

Svar från Janez Potočnik på kommissionens vägnar

(3 december 2012)

Den 18 oktober 2012 ändrade Sverige sin förvaltningsplan för vargar. Kommissionen håller nu på att granska all relevant dokumentation, inbegripet de olika scenarier som Naturvårdsverket lagt fram för vad som skulle kunna betraktas som god bevarandestatus för vargar. Kommissionen kommer att bedöma förvaltningsplanen i ljuset av kraven i EU:s lagstiftning.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-009697/12

to the Commission

Carl Schlyter (Verts/ALE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Wolf population in Sweden

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, which is the authority responsible for this field and possesses expertise in it, has concluded that Sweden’s wolf population needs to consist of at least 380 individuals and that at least seven wolves per decade need to enter the country from elsewhere and reproduce there in order for the population to be regarded as viable. Sweden’s Environment Minister Lena Ek, on the other hand, claims that the population need not consist of more than 180 individuals.

In view of previous conflicts over Sweden’s wolf population and its conservation and the conclusion of the expert authority that 380 wolves are needed, what view does the Commission take of the Environment Minister’s statement that 180 wolves would be sufficient? Will the Commission take any measures?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(3 December 2012)

On 18 October 2012, Sweden amended its management plan on wolves. The Commission is currently analysing all the relevant documents, including the various scenarios presented by Swedish Environment Protection Agency for what would constitute a favourable conservation status of wolves, and will assess this management plan in light of the requirements of EC law.

(Versiunea în limba română)

Întrebarea cu solicitare de răspuns scris E-009698/12

adresată Comisiei

Vasilica Viorica Dăncilă (S&D)

(24 octombrie 2012)

Subiect: Grădinițe în mediul rural

Educația copiilor de la vârsta mică în structuri educaționale adecvate este importantă pentru viitorul acestora și pentru formarea lor profesională ulterioară.

În mediul rural se constată adesea un deficit de cadre didactice, mai ales pentru grădinițe.

Este și motivul pentru care există diferențe între nivelul de pregătire la intrarea în ciclul școlar între copiii din mediul urban și cel rural.

O soluție care poate oferi o alternativă mai ales zonelor rurale izolate și celor care au dificultăți în a asigura educatorii necesari pentru primii ani ar putea fi dezvoltarea sistemului de supraveghere și educare a unui număr limitat de copii de către persoane autorizate de autoritățile locale la locuința persoanelor respective.

Cum poate sprijini Comisia proiectele autorităților locale de dezvoltare a acestui sistem educațional?

Răspuns dat de dl Hahn în numele Comisiei

(13 decembrie 2012)

Agenda UE pentru drepturile copilului (23) subliniază faptul că asigurarea accesului tuturor copiilor la educația și îngrijirea copiilor preșcolari (EICP) este baza succesului învățării pe tot parcursul vieții, al integrării sociale, al dezvoltării personale și al capacității ulterioare de inserție profesională. Comisia sprijină statele membre în eforturile lor de îmbunătățire a ofertei și calității serviciilor de EICP prin schimbul de bune practici.

În plus, în perioada 2007-2013, sprijinul pentru serviciile de îngrijire a copilului și pentru infrastructura din educație este eligibil în cadrul programelor Fondului european de dezvoltare regională cu aproximativ 600 000 EUR (infrastructura pentru îngrijirea copiilor) și aproximativ 8,5 miliarde EUR pe an (infrastructura de educație). Acest buget este, de asemenea, disponibil în zonele rurale pentru dezvoltarea de instalații/infrastructuri, și ar trebui să fie interconectat la Fondul Social European pentru a acoperi și alte costuri conexe, cum ar fi capitalul uman, formarea etc. Statele membre pot include măsuri de sprijin în programele lor naționale și regionale. În cadrul gestiunii partajate, este responsabilitatea statelor membre să selecteze proiectele adecvate.

De asemenea, Fondul european agricol pentru dezvoltare rurală (FEADR) sprijină servicii de bază pentru economie și pentru populația rurală. În consecință, în cazul în care un stat membru sau o regiune le prevăd în programul lor de dezvoltare rurală, investițiile în constituirea, îmbunătățirea sau extinderea serviciilor locale (inclusiv a centrelor de zi pentru copii și a creșelor/grădinițelor) pot fi eligibile. Un sprijin similar poate fi disponibil în cadrul axei LEADER, în cazul în care o strategie de dezvoltare locală pentru o anumită zonă prevede acest tip de activitate. Propunerea Comisiei cu privire la noul regulament privind dezvoltarea rurală oferă același tip de oportunități.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009698/12

to the Commission

Vasilica Viorica Dăncilă (S&D)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Kindergartens in rural communities

Suitable educational facilities for children from a very early age are important for their future academic careers and subsequent vocational training.

Many rural communities lack educational facilities, in particular kindergartens.

As a result, there are differences between children from urban and rural environments regarding the extent to which they are prepared for school life.

A possible alternative solution, especially for isolated rural areas and those which do not have easy access to kindergartens, could be the development of day care and nursery arrangements for limited numbers of children at the homes of individuals accredited by the local authorities.

What support could the Commission give to local authority projects for the introduction of such arrangements?

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(13 December 2012)

The EU Agenda for the Rights of the Child (24) emphasises that giving all children access to early childhood education and care (ECEC) is the foundation for successful lifelong learning, social integration, personal development and later employability. The Commission supports Member States' efforts to improve the supply and quality of ECEC through the exchange of good practices.

In addition, during the 2007-2013 period, support to childcare and education infrastructure is eligible under the European Regional Development Fund programmes which consists of about EUR 600 000 (childcare infrastructure) and about EUR 8.5 billion (education infrastructure). This budget is also available in rural areas in order to develop facilities, and should be linked to the European Social Fund to cover other related costs, like human capital, training, etc. Member States can include supportive measures in their national and regional programmes. In the context of shared management, it is the responsibility of Member States to select suitable projects.

Also, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development supports basic services for the economy and the rural population. Consequently, if a Member State or region provides for that in its rural development programme, investment in the setting-up, improvement or expansion of local services (including day-care and nursery facilities) can be eligible. Similar support can be available under the Leader axis, if a local development strategy for a given area provides for this type of activity. The Commission proposal for the new rural development regulation offers the same type of opportunities.

(Versiunea în limba română)

Întrebarea cu solicitare de răspuns scris E-009699/12

adresată Comisiei

Vasilica Viorica Dăncilă (S&D)

(24 octombrie 2012)

Subiect: Implicarea femeilor în cooperative europene

Europa încurajează apariția și dezvoltarea de întreprinderi de tip cooperativ pe teritoriul mai multor state membre, folosind și oportunitatea pieței unice și dezvoltarea cooperării transnaționale.

Asemenea structuri pot fi utile cu precădere în zona rurală, pentru a evita depopularea satelor. În plus, ele pot fi dezvoltate prin cooperare transfrontalieră, ceea ce ar permite utilizarea experienței cetățenilor din zonele respective, dar și valorificarea tradițiilor locale și regionale.

Pe de altă parte, ar fi benefică o implicare mai mare a femeilor din mediul rural în structuri de acest gen, inclusiv în conducerea noilor entități.

Cum poate sprijini Comisia proiectele lansate de femeile din mediul rural pentru dezvoltarea de cooperative, mai ales în domenii de activități deficitare în zona rurală?

Răspuns dat de dl Cioloș în numele Comisiei

(27 noiembrie 2012)

Comisia consideră că abordarea integratoare a egalității de gen și promovarea spiritului antreprenorial în rândul femeilor din mediul rural reprezintă instrumente vitale pentru dezvoltarea potențialului economic și social al mediului rural.

Dispozițiile actualului Regulament FEADR permit statelor membre să elaboreze programe de dezvoltare rurală care să răspundă nevoilor femeilor din mediul rural. Măsuri precum sprijinul acordat tinerilor agricultori, diversificarea activităților economice, dezvoltarea microîntreprinderilor, abordarea Leader sau formarea profesională pot răspunde nevoilor specifice ale femeilor din mediul rural.

Politica de dezvoltare rurală propusă pentru perioada de după 2013 impune ca egalitatea de gen să devină una dintre condițiile ex ante generale. Propunerea legislativă oferă o serie largă și variată de măsuri care pot ajuta femeile să își sporească aportul la activitatea economică în mediul rural. Acestea pot primi sprijin pentru crearea de ferme noi și/sau de întreprinderi neagricole, pot participa la cursuri de formare sau pot beneficia de servicii de consiliere profesională. În ceea ce privește sprijinirea activităților de cooperare, statele membre/regiunile pot utiliza un instrument specific de cooperare, care promovează diverse forme de abordări ale cooperării dintre diverși actori și crearea de grupuri și rețele. Femeile pot juca, de asemenea, un rol important în abordarea dezvoltării locale în cadrul Leader, care include sprijin pentru cooperarea interregională și transnațională.

Concentrarea asupra necesităților specifice ale femeilor poate fi inclusă printre obiectivele programelor de dezvoltare rurală. Aceasta implică realizarea unei analize de către statele membre și regiuni pentru a asigura o abordare integrată în cadrul programelor, urmată de elaborarea de măsuri adaptate la condițiile locale și care țin seama de problemele specifice cu care se confruntă femeile în acest mediu.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009699/12

to the Commission

Vasilica Viorica Dăncilă (S&D)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Women's involvement in European Cooperatives

The EU is encouraging the creation and development of cooperatives in a number of Member States, taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the single market and the development of cross-border cooperation.

Such structures could be particularly valuable in rural areas with a view to preventing the depopulation thereof. Furthermore, they can be developed by means of cross-border cooperation, thereby taking advantage of experience acquired and of local and regional traditions in the areas concerned.

It would also be beneficial to increase the involvement of women from rural areas in such new initiatives, for example in the management of these new undertakings.

What support can the Commission provide for projects launched by women from rural areas for the development of cooperatives, particularly in sectors which are lacking in rural communities?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(27 November 2012)

The Commission considers that gender mainstreaming and female entrepreneurship in rural areas is a vital tool for developing the economic and social potential of such areas.

The provisions of the current EAFRD Regulation allow Member States to design Rural Development programmes so as to meet the needs of women in rural areas. Measures like support to young farmers, diversification of economic activities, development of micro enterprises, the Leader approach or vocational training can serve the specific needs of women in rural areas.

The proposed rural development policy after 2013 requires gender equality as one of the general ex-ante conditionalities. The legal proposal offers a large number and types of measures that can help women boost their economic participation in rural life. They can receive support for starting new farms and/or setting up non-agricultural businesses, take part in trainings or receive professional advisory service. As regards support of cooperation activities, Member States/regions can make use of a specific cooperation instrument, which promotes different forms of cooperation approaches among different actors and the creation of clusters and networks. Women can also play an important role in the local development approach under Leader, which includes support for interregional‐ and transnational cooperation.

The focus on the specific needs of women can be included into the rural development programmes. This requires an analysis by the Member States and regions to reach an integrated approach in the programmes. This is followed by the design of measures linked to the local conditions and taking account of specific problems women face there.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009700/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(24 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Attacchi bomba in Iraq

Il 30 settembre si è verificato l'ennesimo drammatico attacco bomba in Iraq che ha colpito diverse città del paese da nord a sud, dove sono stati presi di mira i quartieri sciiti e le forze di sicurezza. Il bilancio di questi attacchi, in tutto 4, è di 32 morti ed oltre 100 feriti. Il peggiore si è verificato nella città di Taji, ex roccaforte di al-Qaeda, che si trova circa 20 chilometri a nord di Bagdad, dove sono esplose tre autobombe che si sono susseguite a partire dalle 7.15 ora locale.

Poco dopo un attentatore suicida si è fatto saltare in aria a bordo di un'auto imbottita di esplosivo nel quartiere sciita di Shula, nella zona nordoccidentale di Bagdad. Nuovi attacchi dopo circa un'ora: un altro attentatore suicida ha guidato un minibus direttamente contro un checkpoint di sicurezza a Kut, città sciita nel sud del paese. Alle 10.30 circa, ora locale, un'altra autobomba parcheggiata è esplosa accanto a un bus che trasportava pellegrini iraniani nella città di Madain, che si trova 20 kilometri da Baghdad.

Nella città di Balad Ruz poi, a nordest di Baghdad, un'autobomba è esplosa al passaggio di una pattuglia di polizia. Nella vicina città di Khan Bani Saad un'altra autobomba è esplosa vicino a un mercato. Gli attacchi mediante autobombe sono solitamente un marchio di al-Qaeda in Iraq.

Tale situazione di grave e perpetrata violenza che ha determinato migliaia di morti negli ultimi anni è inaccettabile per la società civile; pertanto alla luce di tali avvenimenti si chiede all'Alto Rappresentante:

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

(13 dicembre 2012)

L’AR/VP segue attentamente la situazione in Iraq e nutre apprensione per i ripetuti atti di violenza nel paese.

L’AR/VP ha espresso sistematica e puntuale condanna pubblica per gli attentati terroristici in Iraq, deplorando la morte e la distruzione che questi occasionano, con il rischio di aggravare la già precaria situazione politica.

L’AR/VP fa sistematicamente appello al governo e ai gruppi politici iracheni perché si impegnino in un dialogo autentico e inclusivo che permetta di appianare le divergenze politiche. Per sconfiggere questi atti ripetuti di violenza organizzata il governo dovrebbe consolidare l’unità nazionale, garantendo inclusione e efficacia.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009700/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Bomb attacks in Iraq

On 30 September 2012 there were dramatic bomb attacks yet again in Iraq. The attacks, four in all, hit towns in the north and south of the country and targeted Shiite districts and the security forces. The death toll was 32 with over 100 people injured. The worst attack took place in the town of Taji, a former al-Qaeda stronghold lying some 20 km north of Baghdad, where at 7.15 am local time, three car bombs exploded one after another.

Shortly afterwards a suicide bomber blew himself up in a car stuffed with explosives in the Shiite district of Shula in north-west Baghdad. Further attacks followed around one hour later: another suicide bomber drove a minibus into a security checkpoint in Kut, a Shiite town in the south of the country. At around 10.30 am local time, another parked car bomb exploded next to a bus carrying Iranian pilgrims in Madain, a town 20 km from Baghdad.

Then in Balad Ruz, a town north east of Baghdad, a car bomb exploded as a police patrol passed by. Another car bomb exploded near to a market in the nearby town of Khan Bani Saad. Attacks using car bombs are usually a mark of al-Qaeda in Iraq.

This situation, which has caused the deaths of thousands of people in violent attacks in recent years, is unacceptable in a civilised society.

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

(13 December 2012)

The HR/VP follows the situation in Iraq very closely and is concerned about continuing acts of violence across the country.

The HR/VP has consistently and repeatedly condemned the ruthless attacks in Iraq publicly, deploring the death and destruction caused by these acts of terrorism, which can exacerbate an already fragile political situation.

The HR/VP has repeatedly called on the Government and Iraqi political groups to engage in an inclusive and genuine dialogue to address political differences. A government which can demonstrate national unity, inclusiveness and effectiveness stands the best chance of defying the continuing organised violence.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009701/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(24 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Strage in Nigeria

Nel nord della Nigeria si è consumata l'ennesima strage provocando una nuova e grave violazione dei diritti umani. Uomini armati travestiti da poliziotti in uniforme hanno aperto il fuoco contro i fedeli raccolti in preghiera in una moschea nello Stato di Kaduna. L'attacco è avvenuto prima dell'alba nel villaggio di Dogo Dawa, a circa 120 km da Kaduna, la capitale omonima dello Stato. I fedeli stavano raggiungendo la moschea per le preghiere mattutine. Diviso da un punto di vista religioso, lo Stato di Kaduna, a maggioranza musulmana, è stato scosso da un'ondata di violenze negli ultimi mesi. Una serie di attentati-kamikaze in tre chiese nel mese di giugno, rivendicati dalla setta islamista Boko Haram, ha scatenato la rabbia e la rappresaglia dei cristiani e di rimando le violenze dei musulmani. Ma stavolta l'origine dell'attacco sembra essere diversa: sembra sia stato compiuto da una banda di predoni che già la scorsa settimana erano stati respinti dai vigilantes della comunità appositamente costituiti. Gli abitanti del villaggio infatti venivano terrorizzati da un gruppo di ladri che, armati, arrivavano dalla foresta per depredarli. Dogo Dawa si trova infatti non lontano da un'importante strada di comunicazione utilizzata da mercanti che trasportano merci e denaro tra il nord e il sud dell'Africa. In questo contesto, il fattore religioso che vede la Nigeria divisa tra il nord musulmano e il sud cristiano si inserisce nella fortissima competizione per il potere.

Quindi, per quanto i Boko Haram siano fondamentalisti islamici, le ragioni dell'accresciuta attività del movimento vanno rintracciate anche nei rapporti che i suoi componenti avrebbero stretto con politici locali e membri delle forze di sicurezza appartenenti alle etnie del nord, interessati alla radicalizzazione della violenza al fine di rendere lo Stato ingovernabile. Il governo sta dimostrando di non avere assolutamente la forza di contrastare l'ascesa dei talebani africani, per questo, senza un pesante intervento della Comunità internazionale, si creerà un vero e proprio conflitto interreligioso. Alla luce di questi elementi si chiede all'Alto Rappresentante:

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-009947/12

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(31 ottobre 2012)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Autobomba in Nigeria

Almeno dieci morti e 145 feriti è il bilancio di un altro bagno di sangue in Nigeria. Domenica 28 ottobre un kamikaze del gruppo islamico Boko Haram si è fatto esplodere nell'autobomba che ha guidato fin dentro una chiesa cattolica a Kaduna, nel nord del paese, uccidendo almeno sette persone e provocando la rappresaglia dei cristiani che hanno dato fuoco ad un musulmano e ucciso a bastonate altri due islamici.

Il kamikaze ha portato l'auto imbottita di esplosivo quasi fino all'interno della chiesa di Santa Rita, dove era in corso la celebrazione della messa domenicale, provocando un'enorme esplosione. Sebbene non vi sia stata rivendicazione da parte della setta terrorista islamica dei Boko Haram, l'attentato di oggi è molto simile ad altri che portano la loro firma e che nell'ultimo anno hanno intensificato la loro campagna di odio contro i cristiani. Gli attacchi alle chiese spesso colpiscono il centro della Nigeria e Kaduna che, con la sua popolazione mista, rientra nel perimetro a rischio.

Subito dopo l'attentato, la folla di cristiani inferocita si è riversata nelle strade armata di coltelli e bastoni, avviando una vera «caccia al musulmano», uccidendone due nei pressi della chiesa e dando alle fiamme un terzo. Si tratta dell'ennesimo, odioso attentato che colpisce i cristiani proprio nel giorno della festa religiosa, e tali atti colpiscono la coscienza di tutti coloro che si battono contro la violenza e per il rispetto della libertà di religione, tendenza inaccettabile che minaccia la pace e la stabilità nel mondo intero.

Questi attacchi contro i cristiani in Nigeria si sono intensificati nell'ultimo anno e sembrano non aver fine.

Alla luce di questi elementi si chiede alla Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante:

Risposta congiunta data da Catherine Ashton a nome della Commissione

(16 gennaio 2013)

I recenti attacchi dei militanti islamici in Nigeria hanno preso di mira, oltre alle chiese, edifici del governo e dei servizi di sicurezza, mercati, scuole e civili innocenti, sia musulmani che cristiani. L’Unione europea condanna questi attentati che rappresentano veri e propri atti criminali. A tal proposito si veda altresì la dichiarazione dell’AR/VP Catherine Ashton del 19 giugno 2012.

L’UE collabora con la Nigeria, sia direttamente sia con l’ECOWAS su base regionale, per sostenerla nel difficile tentativo di creare condizioni di sicurezza durature e di agire sui molteplici fattori socioeconomici e politici che conducono alla radicalizzazione. L’Unione ha già reindirizzato parti del programma di cooperazione con la Nigeria verso il nord del paese in modo da velocizzare le iniziative per la lotta alla povertà e alla deprivazione nella regione.

Inoltre, nel luglio 2012 l’UE ha sostenuto lo sviluppo delle capacità di mediazione in una delle regioni più fragili della Nigeria settentrionale, attivando i fondi del progetto per il sostegno alla mediazione, un’iniziativa del Parlamento europeo (SEAE linea di bilancio 2238). Nell’ambito dello strumento per la stabilità è altresì in preparazione una decisione relativa a un ulteriore progetto dedicato in particolare alla prevenzione dei conflitti e all’occupazione giovanile in questa zona.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009701/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Armed attack in Nigeria

Yet another serious human rights violation occurred in northern Nigeria recently, when armed men dressed in police uniforms opened fire on worshipers at a mosque in Kaduna State. The attack took place before dawn in the village of Dogon Dawa, some 120 kilometres from Kaduna, the state’s capital city, while villagers were on their way to the mosque for morning prayers. Kaduna State, which has a Muslim majority, has been hit by a wave of religious violence over recent months. Suicide attacks for which the Islamist sect Boko Haram claimed responsibility were carried out on three churches in June, sparking reprisals by Christians, which were in turn followed by retaliatory acts of violence by Muslims. This time, however, the attack appears to have been of a different nature in that it was reportedly carried out by a band of robbers camped in a nearby forest which had been making armed raids on the village and terrorising the inhabitants and one of whose incursions had been repelled the previous week by a vigilante group set up specifically for this purpose. Dogon Dawa lies not far away from a major trade route used to carry goods and money between northern and southern Africa.

The religious divide between the Muslim north and the Christian south is being exploited in a fierce struggle for power in the country. Although Boko Haram is an Islamic fundamentalist group, the recent upsurge in its activity is thought to stem partly from the links members of the movement are said to have established with local politicians and members of the security forces belonging to northern ethnic groups who are intent on radicalising the violence so as to make the country ungovernable. Given that the Nigerian Government is showing every sign of not being strong enough to counter the rise of ‘the African Taliban’, unless the international community takes decisive action, an open religious conflict is inevitable.

Question for written answer E-009947/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Mario Mauro (PPE)

(31 October 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Car bomb in Nigeria

At least ten people have been killed and 145 injured in another bloodbath in Nigeria. On Sunday, 28 October, a suicide bomber from the Islamist group Boko Haram blew himself up in a car bomb which he drove right into a Catholic church in Kaduna, in the north of the country, killing at least seven people. The Christians then retaliated, by setting fire to a Muslim and beating another two Muslims to death.

The suicide bomber drove the car packed with explosives almost inside the church of Saint Rita, where Sunday Mass was being celebrated, causing a huge explosion. Although the Islamic terrorist sect of Boko Haram has not claimed responsibility, this recent attack is very similar to others that have been carried out by the same group, which, over the past year, has stepped up its campaign of hatred against Christians. There have often been attacks on churches in the centre of Nigeria, and Kaduna, with its mixed population, is in the danger zone.

Straight after the attack, the crowd of angry Christians poured into the streets armed with knives and sticks, starting a ‘Muslim hunt’; two Muslims were killed near the church and a third was set on fire. This is the umpteenth hateful attack on Christians, precisely on their day of worship. Such acts strike at the conscience of all those who fight against violence and for respect for religious freedom and are an unacceptable trend that is threatening peace and stability throughout the world.

These attacks on Christians in Nigeria have intensified over the past year and there seems to be no end in sight.

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

(16 January 2013)

The recent attacks by militant islamists in Nigeria have targeted government and security buildings, markets, schools and innocent civilians both Muslims and Christians, as well as churches. All such attacks are criminal activities and have been condemned as such by the EU. Please also refer to HRVP Ashton's statement of 19 June 2012.

The EU is working together with Nigeria, both directly and with Ecowas on a regional basis, to help it tackle the challenges of creating durable security and dealing with multiple socioeconomic and political factors conducive to radicalisation. The EU has already reoriented parts of its cooperation programme in Nigeria to the North of the country to accelerate action against poverty and deprivation there.

In addition, in July 2012 the EU provided capacity building for mediation in one of the most fragile areas of Northern Nigeria making use of funds from the mediation support project initiative by the European Parliament (EEAS Budget Line 2238). Furthermore, the Instrument for Stability is in the process of preparing a decision for another project focusing on conflict prevention and youth employment for this area.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-009702/12

à Comissão

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 de outubro de 2012)

Assunto: Defesa do orçamento comunitário 2014-2020

Considerando que:

Pergunta-se à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Janusz Lewandowski em nome da Comissão

(18 de dezembro de 2012)

Em 22 e 23 de novembro de 2012, o Conselho Europeu não chegou a um acordo sobre o próximo quadro financeiro plurianual. No entanto, o Conselho Europeu mandatou o seu presidente, juntamente com o presidente da Comissão, para prosseguir com os trabalhos e as consultas nas próximas semanas, tendo em vista chegar a um consenso entre os 27 Estados‐Membros sobre o quadro financeiro plurianual da União. O mandato refere também explicitamente a necessidade de um grau suficiente de convergência potencial para possibilitar um acordo no início do próximo ano.

A Comissão verifica com agrado que todas as partes envolvidas continuam a afirmar o seu forte compromisso em alcançar um acordo. A Comissão está portanto confiante de que um acordo entre os Chefes de Estado e de Governo poderá ser alcançado em breve durante o mandato do Presidente Van Rompuy. A Presidência rotativa irá seguidamente, com base neste acordo, assegurar a aprovação do Parlamento. A Comissão está empenhada em fazer tudo o que estiver ao seu alcance para facilitar este acordo.

A questão dos duodécimos provisórios somente será levantada caso a autoridade orçamental não chegue a acordo sobre o orçamento para o exercício de 2014. Na falta de um acordo sobre o Regulamento relativo ao QFP para 2014-2020, serão aplicadas as disposições do artigo 312.°, n.° 4, do TFUE, o que resultaria na prorrogação dos limites máximos do QFP para 2013 e de outras disposições correspondentes a esse ano. Em todo o caso, existirá um QFP que irá permitir à Comissão apresentar uma proposta de orçamento para o exercício 2014.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009702/12

to the Commission

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Defending the Community budget 2014-2020

In June 2011 the Commission presented a proposal for EUR 1 083 billion of expenditure for the period 2014-2020, corresponding to 1.11% of European gross domestic product (GDP) and a 5% increase over the current programming period (2007-2013).

The debate on the multiannual financial framework 2014-2020 has brought about a clash between two ideologies at European level. On the one hand we can identify the Friends of Cohesion Group (15 Member States), whilst on the other hand we have the Friends of Efficiency Group (seven Member States). The United Kingdom is demanding a cut to the European budget of EUR 200 billion, i.e. around 20% of its overall value.

The Commission President, José Manuel Barroso, said at the end of the summit of 18 and 19 October that ‘we have a growth compact on paper. Now we need to have it on the ground, we need to have it in reality. The reality is that this growth compact, an important investment package worth EUR 120 billion, has not yet been fully implemented’.

It is crucial that a budget for growth and employment is approved at the next European Council on 22 and 23 November, safeguarding the budget figures presented by the Commission in June 2011.

Under Article 312(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, ‘where no Council regulation determining a new financial framework has been adopted by the end of the previous financial framework, the ceilings and other provisions corresponding to the last year of that framework shall be extended until such time as that act is adopted’.

Answer given by Mr Lewandowski on behalf of the Commission

(18 December 2012)

On 22-23 November 2012 the European Council failed to reach an agreement on the next multiannual financial framework. However, the European Council has mandated its President together with the President of the Commission to continue the work and pursue consultations in the coming weeks to find a consensus among the 27 Member States over the Union's multiannual financial framework. The mandate also refers explicitly to a sufficient degree of potential convergence to make an agreement possible in the beginning of next year.

The Commission notes with satisfaction that all parties continue to voice their strong commitment to reaching a deal. The Commission is therefore confident that an agreement between Heads of States and Government can be brokered at the earliest opportunity under the chairmanship of President Van Rompuy. The rotating Presidency would then build on this agreement to secure the consent of the Parliament. The Commission is committed to doing everything in its power to facilitate this agreement.

The question of provisional twelfths would only arise should the Budgetary Authority fail to agree on a budget for the year 2014. In the case of non-agreement on an MFF Regulation for 2014-2020, the provisions of Art 312(4) TFEU will come into play, resulting in a prolongation of both the 2013 MFF ceilings and the other provisions corresponding to that year. So at any rate an MFF framework will be in place allowing the Commission to present a draft budget for the year 2014.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-009703/12

à Comissão

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 de outubro de 2012)

Assunto: Programas europeus de combate à pobreza

Considerando que:

Pergunta-se à Comissão:

Resposta dada por László Andor em nome da Comissão

(4 de janeiro de 2013)

A Comissão remete o Senhor Deputado para a resposta dada à pergunta escrita E-004208/12.

A Comissão anunciou um Pacote de Investimento Social para o crescimento e a coesão. Este pacote visa, em especial, fornecer orientações sobre o aumento da eficiência, eficácia e adequação dos sistemas de proteção social e contribuir para a aplicação da estratégia Europa 2020 bem como para a concretização da meta de redução da pobreza definida no âmbito desta estratégia.

O Fundo Social Europeu é o principal instrumento financeiro da União Europeia na luta contra a pobreza e a exclusão social. Através dos programas operacionais dos Estados-Membros, o Fundo cofinancia as intervenções destinadas a reforçar a inclusão social das pessoas desfavorecidas, tendo em vista a sua integração sustentável no emprego. A ação do Fundo Social Europeu é uma ação de longo prazo pelo que é difícil avaliar os seus efeitos num só ano. Desde o início do período de programação atual (2007-2013), cerca de 50 milhões de pessoas beneficiaram do Fundo.

Por seu turno, o Programa Comunitário de Apoio Alimentar a Carenciados (PCAAC) continuará em 2013 a financiar a distribuição de alimentos aos mais necessitados. Uma decisão recente (25) confirmou que 500 milhões de euros de alimentos serão distribuídos às pessoas mais vulneráveis em 2013.

Nas suas propostas para o Quadro Financeiro Plurianual para o próximo período de programação, a Comissão propõe que 20 % dos recursos do Fundo Social Europeu sejam dedicados à inclusão social. A Comissão apresentou igualmente uma proposta (26) para a criação de um Fundo de Auxílio Europeu às Pessoas mais Carenciadas para as ajudas europeias aos mais necessitados.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009703/12

to the Commission

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: European programmes to combat poverty

According to Eurostat, there are 79 million people in Europe living below the poverty line, 30 million are undernourished, and about 40 million are in danger of running short of food.

The Portuguese Higher Technical Institute has conducted an exhaustive study on poverty in Portugal and established that roughly 20% of the population are living below the poverty line.

This is a particularly worrying fact, given that 2 million Portuguese have less than EUR 360 to live on and are finding it extremely difficult to satisfy their everyday basic needs.

The study also shows that more than a third of the Portuguese population are living just above the poverty line, but in a precarious situation, and that the most vulnerable groups are older people, one-parent families, and the less well educated.

The Spanish National Statistical Institute (INE) says that approximately 21.1% of the Spanish population are living below the poverty line in 2012, a figure slightly lower than in 2011 (21.8%).

The food aid scheme for the most deprived (MDP programme) supplies products obtained from the agricultural surpluses termed intervention stocks.

The MDP programme has been helping to combat poverty and promote social inclusion. This year 18 million European citizens in 20 Member States have benefited from it.

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(4 January 2013)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-004408/12.

The Commission has announced a Social Investment Package for growth and cohesion. This Package will in particular provide guidance on increasing the efficiency, effectiveness and adequacy of social protection systems and further contribute to implementing the Europe 2020 strategy and achieving the poverty target set as part of that strategy.

The European Social Fund is the European Union's main financial instrument for combating poverty and social exclusion. Through the operational programmes of the Member States, it co-finances measures to improve the social inclusion of disadvantaged people with a view to their sustainable integration in employment. The European Social Fund is a long-term initiative and it is difficult to assess its effects over one single year. About 50 million people have benefited from the Fund since the beginning of the current programming period (2007-2013).

For its part, the EU's Food Distribution programme for the Most Deprived Persons (MDP) will continue to fund the distribution of food to the most deprived. A recent decision confirmed that EUR 500 million of food will be distributed to the most vulnerable people in 2013.

In its proposals for the Multiannual Financial Framework for the forthcoming programming period, the Commission has proposed that 20% of European Social Fund resources be devoted to social inclusion. It has also put forward a proposal for a fund for European aid to the most deprived.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-009704/12

à Comissão

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 de outubro de 2012)

Assunto: Emigração Europeia

Considerando que:

Pergunta-se à Comissão:

Resposta dada por László Andor em nome da Comissão

(14 de dezembro de 2012)

O Eurostat recolhe estatísticas anuais sobre a migração internacional para e a partir dos Estados-Membros (27), incluindo a emigração a partir da UE-27. Os dados alternativos elaborados pelo Banco Mundial baseiam-se em definições algo distintas, mas indicam tendências semelhantes às dos dados do Eurostat. A fiabilidade e a disponibilidade das estatísticas sobre emigrantes terão sempre mais tendência a ser mais baixas do que as estatísticas sobre os imigrantes. Isto deve-se ao facto de ser mais difícil garantir que as pessoas que deixam um país são devidamente contabilizadas nos registos administrativos e em inquéritos por amostragem usados na criação de estatísticas de migração.

As estatísticas do Eurostat mostram que, em anos recentes, chegaram mais pessoas à UE do que as que saíram; o saldo é de cerca de 700 000 pessoas por ano em 2009 e em 2010. No geral, o saldo migratório para a UE-27 diminuiu em 145 000 pessoas entre 2009 e 2010 mas, no seu conjunto, aumentou consideravelmente ao longo da última década.

Os cidadãos da UE desfrutam de livre circulação no mercado interno e, obviamente, são também livres de circular fora da UE. Embora não haja nenhum plano específico para reduzir a emigração, a política da UE tem como objetivo tornar a União o mais atraente possível para os seus cidadãos de modo a que estes permaneçam e possam contribuir para a sua riqueza e desenvolvimento.

A União presta particular atenção às suas regiões e promove a coesão social com vários instrumentos financeiros com o objetivo de fornecer aos seus habitantes, especialmente aos jovens em idade ativa, oportunidades profissionais e pessoais.

A União promove também a mobilidade laboral dentro da UE, nomeadamente através da facilidade do reconhecimento de qualificações, da garantia de proteção dos direitos dos trabalhadores e da coordenação da segurança social, que por sua vez também pode facilitar o regresso dos trabalhadores ao seu país de origem assim que tiverem adquirido experiência e conhecimento.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009704/12

to the Commission

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: European emigration

According to Eurostat, the unemployment rate in July 2012 stood at 10.4% in the EU and at 11.3% in the euro area. There were 25.2 million unemployed in EU-27, and, out of that total, about 18.1 million were accounted for by the euro area.

In June 2012 the youth unemployment rate (that is to say, among workers under 25) was 22.5% in the EU, giving a total of 5.5 million young people out of work, and 22.6% in the euro area, equivalent in this case to 3.4 million unemployed.

Youth unemployment has been rising in recent months. Compared with June 2011, the number of young people out of work has increased by 182 000 in EU-27 and by 204 000 in the euro area.

During the last few years governments have, one after the other, been taking various steps to tackle the problem of youth unemployment. The upward trend, however, is continuing, and no solutions are being found to reverse it.

Meanwhile, this social scourge is still afflicting thousands of young people and making them seek career opportunities abroad in an attempt to find well-paid jobs and improve their socioeconomic situation.

According to the last known figures, more than 107 000 European citizens decided in 2011 to seek work outside Europe.

In Portugal the number of young people in the working-age population is falling. Specialists say that the reason lies in emigration, bearing in mind that 100 000 people left the country in 2011 and the same thing is likely to happen in 2012.

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(14 December 2012)

Eurostat collects annual statistics on international migration to and from Member States (28), including emigration from the EU-27. Alternative data prepared by the World Bank are based on somewhat different definitions, but indicate similar trends to the Eurostat data. The reliability and availability of statistics on people who emigrate will always tend to be lower than for statistics on immigrants. This is because it is harder to ensure that people who leave a country are correctly accounted for in the administrative records and sample surveys used for migration statistics.

The Eurostat statistics show that, in recent years, more people have moved into the EU than have left; the balance being around 700 000 people per year in 2009 and 2010. Overall net migration into the EU-27 has decreased by 145 000 from 2009 to 2010, but has increased considerably throughout the past decade as a whole.

EU citizens enjoy freedom of movement in the internal market and are also obviously free to move outside the EU. While there is no specific plan to reduce emigration, Union's policy aim at making the Union as attractive as possible for its citizens to stay so they can contribute to its wealth and development.

The Union pays particular attention to its regions and promotes social cohesion with various financial instruments with a view to provide their inhabitants, especially the young people of working age, with professional and personal opportunities.

The Union also promotes labour mobility within the EU by inter alia facilitating the recognition of qualifications, by ensuring the protection of workers' rights, the coordination of social security which in turn can also facilitate the return of workers to their home country once they gathered new experience and knowledge.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-009705/12

à Comissão

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 de outubro de 2012)

Assunto: Análise do défice e da dívida pública

Considerando que:

Pergunta-se à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Olli Rehn em nome da Comissão

(11 de dezembro de 2012)

Os planos orçamentais dos Estados-Membros (29) são comunicados nos respetivos programas de estabilidade e convergência. Os Estados-Membros, tal como a Comissão, não diferenciam, normalmente, medidas destinadas a assegurar o cumprimento do limite da dívida ou dos valores de referência do Tratado. Uma das razões é que o limite da dívida estabelecido pelo Tratado só passou a ser de aplicação com a entrada em vigor do pacote de seis medidas sobre a governação económica. A respetiva alteração prevê um período transitório de três anos após a correção dos procedimentos em curso relativos aos défices excessivos.

A Comissão faz uma avaliação global dos planos orçamentais (30).

Neste momento, Portugal não tem acesso normal ao mercado e carece de reduzir a sua dívida pública. A estratégia acordada baseia-se na adoção de um plano de consolidação que melhore o excedente, mediante cortes na despesa não produtiva ou ineficiente, ao mesmo tempo que se protege a despesa geradora de crescimento económico e se assegura justiça social. Simultaneamente, Portugal tem de adotar reformas geradoras de crescimento. É esta a linha comum prosseguida pela UE, pelo FMI e pelo Governo Português.

A despesa de investimento é objeto de tratamento especial no âmbito do novo valor de referência para a despesa, indicado pela vertente preventiva do Pacto de Estabilidade e Crescimento, visto ser calculada como média de diversos anos a fim de evitar penalizações em consequência de picos anuais. Acresce que, embora a disciplina orçamental seja avaliada em função de valores de referência para o défice e para a dívida do setor público administrativo que não estabelecem distinção entre diferentes tipos de despesa, os investimentos públicos são um dos fatores relevantes que têm de ser devidamente tidos em conta pela Comissão para uma avaliação global equilibrada da situação orçamental do Estado-Membro no seu relatório ao Conselho, visando uma eventual proposta de abertura do procedimento relativo a défice excessivo.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009705/12

to the Commission

Nuno Teixeira (PPE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Analysis of the deficit and public debt

The combined deficit of the countries of the European Union reached 6.5% of GDP in 2010, but dropped to 4.4% in 2011, reflecting the austerity measures applied by numerous countries. The combined budgetary imbalance in the euro area has already fallen from 6.2% to 4.1% of GDP.

The Member State with the highest deficit was Ireland, with an imbalance reaching 13.4% of GDP, followed by Greece and Spain (9.4% each), the United Kingdom (7.4%), Cyprus (6.3%), France (5.2%) and the Netherlands (4.5%).

Eurostat further notes that 25 countries improved their public accounts, with the situation worsening only in two (Cyprus and Slovenia). Out of all of the Member States, only three (Hungary, Estonia and Sweden) registered budgetary surpluses.

The combined public debt of the EU’s 27 Member States has already increased from 85.4% of GDP to 87.3%, while in the euro area this figure has risen from 80% to 82.5% of GDP.

It can thus be seen that while the deficit in most of the Member States has substantially decreased, public debt continues to rise.

The Stability and Growth Pact establishes a maximum 60% limit for the public debt of each Member State, which must not be exceeded, on pain of incurring economic and financial penalties.

Can the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(11 December 2012)

The budgetary plans by Member States (31) (MS) are reported in their Stability and Convergence Programmes. MS as well as the Commission usually do not differentiate measures taken to ensure compliance with the debt benchmark or the reference values of the Treaty. One reason for this is that the debt benchmark of the Treaty has been made operational only since the entry into force of the six-pack. The respective amendment foresees a transition period of three years after the correction of ongoing excessive deficit procedures.

The Commission makes an overall assessment of the budgetary plans (32).

Portugal currently has no normal market access and needs to reduce its public debt. The agreed strategy is based on the adoption of a consolidation strategy that improves its surplus by cutting non-productive or inefficient expenditure while protecting growth-enhancing expenditure and ensuring social fairness. At the same time, it has to pursue growth enhancing reforms. This is the common line pursued by the EU, the IMF and the Portuguese Government.

Investment expenditure receives a special treatment under the new expenditure benchmark of the preventive arm of the Stability and Growth Pact, as it is averaged over a number of years in order to avoid to be penalized because of annual peaks. Moreover, even if budgetary discipline is assessed against reference values for the general government deficit and debt that do not differentiate amid different kind of expenditure, public investments are one of the relevant factors that have to be duly taken into account by the Commission to make a balanced overall assessment of the budgetary situation of the MS in its report to the Council to propose the opening of the excessive deficit procedure.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-009706/12

aan de Commissie

Auke Zijlstra (NI)

(24 oktober 2012)

Betreft: ECB over excessieve tekorten eurozone landen

De Nederlandse bestuurder van de Europese Centrale Bank (ECB), de heer Klaas Knot, heeft in het televisie programma Buitenhof van 21 oktober jl. gezegd dat de Zuid-Europese lidstaten nog minstens 3 tot 5 jaar nodig hebben om uit de financiële problemen te komen. Voor Griekenland maakte hij een uitzondering: daar duurt het nog véél langer voordat er een begrotingsevenwicht wordt bereikt.

In dit kader wil ik de Commissie de volgende vragen voorleggen:

Antwoord van de heer Rehn namens de Commissie

(18 december 2012)

Momenteel loopt ten aanzien van 21 lidstaten een buitensporigtekortprocedure, waarbij de  termijnen voor de correctie van het buitensporige tekort thans uiteenlopen van 2011 tot 2015. De  termijn en het aanpassingstraject worden vastgesteld door de Raad op grond van een aanbeveling van de Commissie, die haar evaluatie baseert op de ten tijde van de aanbeveling bekende macro-economische en budgettaire prognoses. Indien de lidstaten doeltreffende actie ondernemen om het buitensporige tekort te corrigeren maar er zich ongunstige economische gebeurtenissen met een ernstige negatieve weerslag op de openbare financiën voordoen, kan de Commissie overeenkomstig het bepaalde in het stabiliteits‐ en groeipact de Raad aanbevelen de  termijn te verlengen. Dit is al een aantal keren gebeurd. De mogelijkheid om de  termijn voor de correctie van het buitensporige tekort te verlengen, is ingevoerd toen het stabiliteits‐ en groeipact in 2005 is hervormd. De wijziging was bedoeld om tot een betere economische onderbouwing van het EU-begrotingstoezicht te komen.

Noch het Verdrag, noch Verordening (EG) nr. 1467/97 voorziet in een maximumduur van de buitensporigtekortprocedure. De initiële aanpassingsperiode wordt per geval vastgesteld om een voldoende ambitieuze, maar ook geloofwaardige correctie van het buitensporige tekort te waarborgen. De duur van de procedure vormt ook niet noodzakelijkerwijs een maatstaf voor de waarschijnlijkheid dat lidstaten financiële bijstand nodig hebben. Veel hangt af van de budgettaire uitgangspositie en van mogelijke andere macro-economische onevenwichtigheden die in de betrokken lidstaat kunnen bestaan. De Commissie kan zich hoe dan ook niet uitspreken over het aantal lidstaten dat een programma voor financiële bijstand zou kunnen aanvragen en, in samenhang daarmee, dat aan de voorwaarden voor Outright Market Transactions (OMT) voldoet. Bovendien moet worden benadrukt dat de OMT een prerogatief is van de ECB, die volledig onafhankelijk is bij het voeren van het monetaire beleid.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009706/12

to the Commission

Auke Zijlstra (NI)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: ECB on excessive deficits in eurozone countries

The Dutch member of the European Central Bank (ECB) Governing Council, Klaas Knot, said on the Dutch television programme Buitenhof of 21 October 2012 that southern European Member States need at least another 3-5 years to have to get out of financial difficulties. He made an exception for Greece, where it will take much longer to balance the budget.

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(18 December 2012)

Currently 21 Member States are subject to an excessive deficit procedure, with deadlines for correcting the excessive deficit currently ranging from 2011 to 2015. The deadline and the adjustment path are set by the Council, on a recommendation by the Commission which bases its assessment on the macroeconomic and budgetary forecasts known at the time of the recommendation. If Member States take effective action to correct the excessive deficit, but adverse economic events with major consequences for public finances occur, the Commission can, in line with the provisions of the Stability and Growth Pact (33) recommend to the Council to extend the deadline. This has happened already on a number of occasions (34). The possibility to extend the deadline for correcting the excessive deficit was introduced with the 2005 reform of the Stability and Growth Pact. It was meant to improve the economic rational of EU fiscal surveillance.

There is no maximum duration of the excessive deficit procedure (35) foreseen in the Treaty or in Regulation 1467/97. The initial adjustment period is fixed case-by-case to ensure a sufficiently ambitious, but also credible correction of the excessive deficit. The length of the procedure also does not necessarily reflect the likelihood that Member States require financial assistance. Much depends on the budgetary starting position and possible other macroeconomic imbalances that may be present in the Member State concerned. In any case, the Commission cannot speculate on the number of Member States that may apply for a financial assistance programme and, linked to that, fulfil the prerequisite for OMT. Moreover, it should be stressed that the OMT is a prerogative of the ECB which is fully independent in the conduct of monetary policy.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009707/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Precios cereales

Se especula que el sexto mayor productor de maíz del mundo, Ucrania, a partir del 15 de noviembre va a cerrar su mercado a la exportación de dicha materia prima.

Los efectos en los mercados pueden ser evidentes, con claros aumentos de precio no solo de la citada materia prima (36).

Un aumento en los ya de por sí muy elevados precios de dicha materia prima puede allanar el camino a una mayor vulnerabilidad en los mercados, con unas consecuencias evidentes para los productores europeos. Además, tal y como se ha visto en el pasado, puede hacer un efecto llamada y que otros Estados u organizaciones intervengan de alguna forma en el mercado con graves presiones en los mercados.

«Agriculture Market information»— para mitigar los preocupantes incrementos de costes de las materias primas?

Respuesta del Sr. Cioloş en nombre de la Comisión

(26 de noviembre de 2012)

, incluidos los de los productos básicos agrícolas. Una de las tareas de la Comisión es controlar mensualmente la evolución de los precios de los productos básicos agrícolas y los alimentos

. La Comisión no realiza proyecciones de precios.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009707/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Grain prices

There is speculation that the world’s sixth largest wheat producer, Ukraine, is going to stop exports of the raw material from 15 November.

The possible effects of this on markets are clear: noticeable increases in the price of this and other raw materials (39).

An increase in the already very high prices of this raw material could pave the way for greater market vulnerability, with obvious consequences for European producers. Furthermore, as has happened in the past, this could have a knock-on effect and cause other countries or organisations to intervene in the grain market in some way, thereby putting great pressure on the markets.

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(26 November 2012)

, including agricultural commodity markets. One of the tasks of the Commission is to monitor agricultural commodity and food price developments on a monthly basis

. The Commission does not make price projections.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009708/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Materias primas alimenticias

Según diferentes estudios (42) existe una clara relación en los mercados internacionales entre el precio de las materias primas alimenticias y el precio del petróleo. Distintas son las razones, pero se subraya el uso intensivo de derivados del petróleo en la producción de alimentos. Se arguye, además, y como elemento destacado, la poca transparencia y una posible deficiente regulación en los mercados de futuros.

¿Puede la Comisión indicar si, efectivamente, hay una clara correlación entre el precio de las materias primas alimenticias y los precios del petróleo?

Si efectivamente existe dicha correlación, ¿puede la Comisión enumerar los motivos?

Respuesta del Sr. Cioloş en nombre de la Comisión

(4 de diciembre de 2012)

La correlación entre los precios de los productos alimenticios y el precio del petróleo es alta, de hecho, en algunos productos agrícolas básicos, pero no en todos y no uniformemente. En general, la correlación es también alta respecto a determinados metales (producción industrial) e incluso al oro (actividad especulativa), aunque continúan las investigaciones para probar claramente la causalidad.

Los precios del petróleo afectan a los precios de los alimentos de muchas maneras. En las explotaciones, a través de los costes de producción: el combustible, los lubricantes y los fertilizantes son importantes insumos agrícolas. Los precios de la energía también se reflejan en la inflación global y afectan a otros costes de producción en todas las fases de la cadena de abastecimiento de alimentos (servicios, trabajo, etc.). Los precios de la energía afectan a los costes de transporte, que representan una parte creciente de los costes de los productos finales según aumenta el comercio mundial. Por último, el desarrollo de los biocarburantes ha creado una nueva relación entre los precios de la energía y determinadas materias primas agrícolas.

Las fluctuaciones interrelacionadas entre los precios de los productos básicos dentro y fuera de la agricultura se examinan atentamente y existe cada vez más bibliografía sobre el tema. La Comisión Europea participa activamente en esta investigación. La iniciativa del G20 sobre el Sistema de Información sobre el Mercado Agrícola (SIMA) se está convirtiendo en un instrumento clave para aumentar mundialmente la transparencia del mercado de productos básicos y la Comisión Europea proporciona datos mensuales a la FAO, además de ser el enlace de la UE-27 en el G20.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009708/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Raw foodstuffs

According to several studies (43) there is a clear connection on international markets between the price of raw foodstuffs and the price of oil. There are various reasons for this, but the reports stress the intensive use of oil derivatives in food production. They also point to insufficient transparency and possible poor regulation of the futures markets being important factors.

Can the Commission confirm whether there is indeed a clear correlation between the price of raw foodstuffs and the price of oil?

If this correlation does in fact exist, can the Commission list the reasons why?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(4 December 2012)

Correlation between raw foodstuff prices and oil prices is indeed high for some agricultural commodities, but not for all of them and not in a uniform way. In general, correlation is also high with respect to certain metals (industrial production) and even with gold (speculation activity) even though further research is ongoing to establish clear causality.

Oil prices affect food prices in many ways. At farm level, through production costs: fuel (and lubricants) and fertilisers are important farming inputs. Energy prices are also reflected in overall inflation and affect other production costs at all stages of the food supply chain (services, labour, etc). Energy prices affect transportation costs, which represent a growing share of final products’ costs as global trade grows. Finally the development of biofuels has created a further linkage between energy prices and certain agricultural commodities.

Co-movements among commodity prices within and outside agriculture are closely monitored and growing literature is addressing this topic. The European Commission is actively involved in this research. The Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS) activity of the G20 is becoming a key instrument to enhance market transparency in key commodities globally and the European Commission provides monthly data to FAO and is the contact point for the EU-27 within the G20.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009709/12

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Crisis alimentarias

Tal y como analizan algunos estudios recientes de la FAO (44) (FAO food prices index from January 2004-2011), existe una clara correlación entre el aumento del precio de los alimentos a nivel internacional y las protestas sociales que pueden provocar alteraciones en los sistemas políticos. Los ejemplos de las crisis alimentarias globales en los años 2008 o 2011 son claros en este sentido. Según la FAO, hay en el mundo desarrollado 16 millones de personas mal nutridas y un 15 % u 850 millones de personas en los países en vías de desarrollo.

Respuesta del Sr. Cioloş en nombre de la Comisión

(26 de noviembre de 2012)

La Comisión Europea considera que los mercados de futuros, como herramientas para hacer frente a la volatilidad de los precios, sirven para la determinación de los precios y la cobertura. A este respecto, ya se ha afirmado la importancia de mejorar la supervisión y la transparencia de los mercados de derivados sobre materias primas agrícolas. En consecuencia, la Comisión puso en marcha una serie de iniciativas para abordar estos aspectos y remite a Su Señoría a sus respuestas a las preguntas escritas P-4409/2009 del Sr. Staes, E-6137/2011 de la Sra. Muscardini y E-9532/2011 del Sr. Meyer.

Las propuestas sobre la PAC para después de 2013 demuestran el compromiso permanente de la Comisión de adaptar las políticas pertinentes y abordar los retos existentes y nuevos, como pueden ser las posibles crisis alimentarias. A este respecto, la Comisión remite a Su Señoría a sus respuestas a las preguntas escritas E-007833/2012 del Sr. Niculescu E-001931/2012 y de la Sra. Dăncilă.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009709/12

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Food crises

Recent studies by the FAO (45) (FAO Food Price Index from January 2004-2011) show there is a clear correlation between rising food prices across the world and social unrest that can cause changes in political regimes. The world food crises of 2008 and 2011 are good examples of this. According to the FAO, there are 16 million malnourished people in the developed world and 15% or 850 million in the developing countries.

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(26 November 2012)

The European Commission considers that the futures markets, as tools to cope with price volatility, should keep serving their purpose of price discovery and hedging. In this respect, it has already affirmed the importance of improving the oversight and transparency of the agricultural commodity derivatives markets (46). Consequently, the Commission launched a series of initiatives meant to tackle these aspects and hereby refers the Honourable Member to its replies to Written Questions P-4409/2009 by Mr Staes, E-6137/2011 by Ms Muscardini and E-9532/2011 by Mr Meyer (47).

The proposals on the CAP post-2013 demonstrate the continuous commitment of the Commission to adapt the relevant policies to address existing and emerging challenges, such as potential food crises. In this respect, the Commission refers the Honourable Member to its replies to Written Questions E-007833/2012 by Mr Niculescu and E-001931/2012 by Ms Dăncilă.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009711/12

a la Comisión

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(24 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Reducción del gasto en I+D en España

Durante los últimos años se ha producido un descenso continuado de las partidas que el Gobierno de España ha destinado a la Investigación y Desarrollo (I+D). Este marcado descenso se ha agravado desde la llegada del nuevo Gobierno, que está desmantelando progresivamente el sistema educativo superior y provocando una acusada «fuga de cerebros» que no parece tener fin.

El Gobierno de España, con este progresivo desmantelamiento en todos los niveles de su sistema educativo, pero especialmente en la Universidad, pretende reducir el déficit público a costa de la población que puede sacar al país de la crisis. Frente a un modelo empresarial basado en la especulación bancaria e inmobiliaria, donde los empresarios españoles han sido incapaces de generar otras actividades económicas, mas allá de la especulación y la construcción, resulta necesario el cambio para la introducción del abundante capital humano de la juventud española en el sistema productivo.

El estancamiento económico de España se acentúa con la destrucción de las posibilidades de I+D, estancando a la economía española en el modelo especulativo sobre el que se ha basado y en las decisiones de los mismos empresarios que han provocado la crisis. Sin inversión en este sector, los investigadores están abandonando el país en busca de oportunidades. Si España pretende seguir formando parte de la Unión Europea no puede continuar siendo el país del «ladrillo y la playa».

La Comisión ha destinado más de 6 000 millones de euros para el desarrollo de la investigación en España durante el periodo 2007-2013 a través de la política de cohesión y diferentes mecanismos de financiación.

¿Cómo valora la Comisión el impacto de esta inversión en el sistema educativo español y su coordinación con la política nacional?

¿Cuál es la opinión de la Comisión al respecto de la « fuga de cerebros » y la reducción de financiación en I+D por parte del España?, ¿qué consecuencias estima la Comisión que estos fenómenos traerán al país?

¿Ha solicitado la Comisión información a España sobre cómo evalúa el Gobierno los efectos que dichas reducciones de gasto tendrán en su crecimiento económico?

¿Qué cantidad aproximada pretende destinar la Comisión para la I+D en España para el nuevo periodo 2014-2020?

Respuesta del Sr. Hahn en nombre de la Comisión

(21 de enero de 2013)

2-4. Las inversiones públicas de España en I+D aumentaron notablemente hasta 2009 y sufrieron una contracción después a consecuencia de la crisis económica y la consolidación presupuestaria. La Comisión reaccionó a este hecho recomendando que se procediera a una revisión de las prioridades de gasto y [a] reasignar los fondos a fin de facilitar el acceso a la financiación para PYMES, investigación, innovación y juventud  (48).

Si bien las inversiones en I+D e innovación (I+D+i) son esenciales para reforzar el crecimiento y la competitividad, España también debe progresar rápidamente en la aplicación de reformas para mejorar la eficiencia y eficacia de sus sistemas de I+D+i. En concreto, debe garantizar una mayor coordinación entre las políticas nacionales y regionales en materia de I+D y un marco institucional coherente, vincular la financiación institucional a los avances en la excelencia científica, así como aumentar la internacionalización y la cooperación público-privada, todo ello aprovechando plenamente las sinergias entre los recursos nacionales y los Fondos Estructurales, el Programa marco Horizonte 2020 y otros instrumentos de la UE.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009711/12

to the Commission

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: Cuts in R R&D D spending in Spain

The budget allocated to research and development (R R&D D) by the Spanish Government has been shrinking continuously over recent years. This marked decline has worsened since the arrival of the new government, which is progressively dismantling the higher education system, triggering a significant brain drain that shows no signs of stopping.

By progressively dismantling all levels of the educational system — but especially the university level — the Spanish Government intends to reduce the public deficit, to the cost of the very group of people who could bring the country out of the crisis. Given a business model based on bank and property speculation, under which Spanish entrepreneurs have been unable to generate economic activities other than speculation and building, there is a need for a shift, bringing the abundant human capital represented by Spain's young people into the economic system.

Spain's economic stagnation is growing worse with the destruction of R R&D D opportunities, miring the Spanish economy in the speculative model on which it is based, and in the decisions of the same entrepreneurs who caused the crisis. In the absence of investment in this sector, researchers are leaving the country to seek opportunities elsewhere. If Spain intends to continue belonging to the EU, it cannot carry on as the country of ‘bricks and beaches’.

The Commission has earmarked more than EUR 6 billion for developing research in Spain during the 2007-2013 period, through cohesion policy and various funding mechanisms.

How does the Commission assess the impact of this investment in the Spanish education system, and its coordination with national policy?

What is the Commission's opinion regarding the brain drain and the cuts in R R&D D funding by Spain? What does the Commission think the consequences will be for the country?

Has the Commission asked Spain for information on how the government assesses the effect these spending cuts will have on the country's economic growth?

Roughly what amount does the Commission intend to allocate to R R&D D in Spain for the upcoming 2014-2020 period?

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(21 January 2013)

2-4. Spain's public investments in R&D grew strongly until 2009 and contracted thereafter due to the economic crisis and fiscal consolidation. The Commission reacted by recommending to ‘Review spending priorities and reallocate funds to support access to finance for SMEs, research, innovation and young people’ (49).

While investment in R&D and innovation is crucial to enhance growth and competitiveness, Spain should equally make rapid progress in implementing reforms to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its R&D and innovation systems. In particular it should ensure a stronger coordination between national and regional R&D policies, ensure a consistent institutional framework, link institutional funding to progress in scientific excellence and increase internationalisation and public-private cooperation, fully exploiting synergies among national resources and Structural Funds as well as with Horizon 2020 and other EU instruments.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009712/12

a la Comisión

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(24 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: VP/HR — Violación de los derechos humanos de los inmigrantes en Israel

Las continuadas declaraciones del polémico Eli Yishai, Ministro del Interior del Estado de Israel, han puesto su objetivo en la comunidad de inmigrantes y refugiados políticos, especialmente de origen africano, que habitan en el país, aproximadamente unos 60 000 según fuentes locales.

El Ministro ha dado la orden de expulsión o encarcelamiento de los inmigrantes ilegales que residen en el país por estar «corrompiendo el alma judía del país». Semejantes declaraciones, digna de ministros de épocas fascistas, ponen en peligro a esta comunidad de migrantes que llegan a Israel, en su mayor parte, como refugiados de conflictos violentos del continente africano.

El Ministerio del Interior ha lanzado la propuesta de expulsar o encarcelar por tres años a todos los inmigrantes ilegales que residan en el país, por suponer dicha amenaza. Esta justificación de carácter racista de la política de migración es un directo ataque a los fundamentos del Derecho internacional, la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos y la Convención de Ginebra sobre el Estatuto de los Refugiados. El Gobierno de Israel, caracterizado por un escaso cumplimiento de los derechos humanos con el pueblo palestino, pretende suprimir también los derechos de los migrantes que se encuentran en su territorio, convirtiendo a las personas migrantes en delincuentes.

De las 13 000 solicitudes de asilo realizadas a Israel solo han sido admitidas a trámite 200, dificultando a estas personas el acceso a una situación jurídica y convirtiéndolos en inmigrantes ilegales. Esta ilegalización del estatuto de persona migrada, junto con el agravamiento de los requisitos para acceder a cualquier forma de protección jurídica, supone un proceso sumario de persecución y encarcelamiento ilegal que no tiene justificación alguna. La comunidad internacional suele participar como mero espectador silencioso de las continuas barbaridades que las autoridades israelíes cometen contra los derechos humanos día tras día.

¿Pretende la Vicepresidenta/Alta Representante denunciar semejante atropello ante la comunidad internacional? ¿Cuál es la opinión de la Vicepresidenta/Alta Representante sobre las declaraciones del Ministro del Interior Israelí al respecto de los inmigrantes? ¿Piensa condenar tales declaraciones?

Añadiendo estos nuevos incumplimientos de la legalidad internacional, ¿considera la Vicepresidenta/Alta Representante la congelación del Acuerdo de Asociación UE-Israel como medida de presión para el cumplimiento del Derecho internacional por parte de Israel?

Respuesta de la Alta Representante y Vicepresidenta Sra. Ashton en nombre de la Comisión

(15 de enero de 2013)

La Alta Representante y Vicepresidenta es consciente del grave desafío que para Israel supone la migración irregular, especialmente en lo que respecta a los inmigrantes que llegan a través del desierto del Sinaí. En mayo de 2012, se registró una serie de incidentes violentos contra los inmigrantes, en particular en el sur de Tel Aviv. La Alta Representante y Vicepresidenta manifestó su satisfacción por la condena de estos hechos que el Primer Ministro Netanyahu realizó el 24 de mayo de 2012, y por el llamamiento del Presidente Shimon Peres a todos los ciudadanos israelíes para que eviten los actos racistas y la incitación a la violencia.

No obstante, la Alta Representante y Vicepresidenta se muestra preocupada por algunas de las medidas adoptadas por Israel en este ámbito, como la Prevention of Infiltration Law (Ley de prevención de la infiltración), adoptada el 9 de enero de 2012, ya que esas medidas pueden restringir el acceso a la protección internacional o ayuda humanitaria en Israel a los migrantes, en particular a los procedentes de Eritrea o Sudán, de lo que ya se advertía en el Informe intermedio 2012 relativo a la Política Europea de Vecindad sobre Israel. Es en este contexto, y habida cuenta de la falta de progreso en la mejora por parte de Israel del actual mecanismo de determinación de la condición de refugiado, que la UE propuso el 2 de mayo de 2012 en el Comité de Asociación UE-Israel, compartir experiencias y proporcionar asistencia si así se solicitaba para desarrollar una política global de inmigración.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-009712/12

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(24 October 2012)

Subject: VP/HR — Violation of immigrants' human rights in Israel

Eli Yishai, the controversial Minister of Internal Affairs of the State of Israel, has continually made statements targeting the immigrants and political refugees, especially of African origin, living in the country — approximately 60 000 people, according to local sources.

The Minister has ordered that immigrants living in the country illegally should be expelled or imprisoned as they are ‘‘orrupting the country's Jewish soul’’ Such declarations, worthy of fascist-era ministers, are a threat to the migrant community, who mostly arrive in Israel as refugees from violent conflicts in Africa.

The Minister of Internal Affairs has proposed that all illegal immigrants living in the country should be expelled or imprisoned for three years as they supposedly represent a threat. This racist justification for the migration policy is a direct attack on the foundations of international law, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Geneva Convention on the Status of Refugees. The Israeli government, marked by its lack of regard for the human rights of the Palestinian people, also intends to remove the rights of migrants on its territory, turning migrants into criminals.

Of the 13 000 applications for asylum made in Israel, only 200 have been accepted, preventing people from gaining legal status and turning them into illegal immigrants. This process of making migrants illegal, together with the tightening up of requirements for access to any form of legal protection, constitutes a summary process of persecution and illegal imprisonment which is entirely unjustified. The international community usually watches in silence as the Israeli authorities daily trample on human rights.

Will the Vice-President/High Representative condemn such violations before the international community? What does the Vice-President/High Representative think about the statements by the Israeli Minister of Internal Affairs regarding immigrants? Does she intend to condemn these statements?

In light of these new infringements of international law, will the Vice-President/High Representative consider freezing the EU-Israel Association Agreement as a way of pressuring Israel to comply with international law?

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

(15 January 2013)

The HR/VP understands the serious challenge of irregular migration that Israel faces, especially as regards migrants coming via the Sinai desert. There were a number of violent incidents targeting immigrants, in particular in South Tel Aviv, in May 2012. The HR/VP welcomed the condemnation of these by Prime Minister Netanyahu on 24 May 2012 and the call by President Shimon Peres on all Israeli citizens to avoid racist actions and incitement.

Nevertheless, the HR/VP is concerned with some of the measures taken by Israel in this area — such as the Prevention of Infiltration Law (adopted 9 January 2012) — as these are likely to restrict the possibility of migrants from Eritrea or Sudan in particular to receive international protection or humanitarian assistance in Israel, as noted in the 2012 European Neighbourhood Policy Progress Report on Israel. It is in this context, and in light of the lack of progress in improving Israel’s current Refugee Status Determination mechanism, that at the EU-Israel Association Committee on 2 May 2012 the EU offered to share experience and provide assistance if requested in developing a comprehensive immigration policy.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-009713/12

a la Comisión

Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL)

(24 de octubre de 2012)

Asunto: Conclusiones de las pruebas de resistencia en el sector nuclear

Se han presentado los resultados de las pruebas de resistencia ( « stress test » ) en la industria nuclear europea realizado por la Comisión Europea a través de la revisión de los informes presentados por los organismos reguladores nacionales asociados en el organismo europeo de reguladores ENSREG.

De entre los documentos de dicho informe extraemos la frase: « los ciudadanos del bloque pueden tener confianza en que la industria nuclear europea es segura » . Dicha frase pretende resumir un informe que recoge numerosas faltas en los procedimientos exigidos. Desde la falta de instrumentos de medición sísmica en diez centrales, a la falta de equipos móviles para la generación de electricidad en caso de apagón total, son muchas las faltas de seguridad que presentan los informes elaborados por los organismos reguladores nacionales, el Consejo de Seguridad Nuclear (CSN), en el caso de España. Dicho organismo ha sido acusado de falta de transparencia en múltiples ocasiones, debido a la escasa información que hace pública en caso de « incidencias » en las centrales que controla.

Pese a que « la industria nuclear europea es segura » , la necesaria mejora de las condiciones de seguridad de los 132 reactores que existen en la Unión Europea para cumplir los mínimos exigidos podría suponer unos 25 000 millones de euros según las estimaciones presentadas. Esta importante suma elevaría considerablemente el coste del KW/h que procede de la energía nuclear y por tanto haría relativamente más rentables tecnologías que gozan de una mayor aceptación por parte de la población europea.

Considerando la nueva información presentada y atendiendo a mi anterior pregunta « E-008567/2011 » , ¿piensa la Comisión evaluar el cierre de alguna de las centrales más problemáticas en los términos del presente informe?

¿Piensa la Comisión incluir los nuevos costes de seguridad a la hora de evaluar el coste de la energía nuclear y considerar sus alternativas para futuros planes energéticos?

Atendiendo a la terminología empleada en dicho informe, ¿cómo se pueden necesitar 25 000 millones de euros para el incremento de la seguridad si « la industria nuclear europea es segura » ?

Respuesta del Sr. Oettinger en nombre de la Comisión

(17 de diciembre de 2012)