”, joka julkaistaan pian. Tutkimuksella pyritään saamaan syvällisempi käsitys nuorisotyön merkityksestä ja arvosta kaikkialla Euroopan unionissa. Erityisenä painopisteenä on nuorisotyön erityistehtävä epäedullisessa asemassa olevien nuorten parissa.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008447/13

to the Commission

Eija-Riitta Korhola (PPE)

(11 July 2013)

Subject: Consolidating the effectiveness of youth work in EU Member States to prevent a wider social crisis

Youth unemployment, which well exceeds 50% in some EU Member States, presents a risk to social stability. The financial and economic crisis is, at the moment, spilling over to become a social crisis, too. The Commission has estimated that the cost of youth unemployment is EUR 153 billion (unemployment benefits, lost productivity and lost tax revenue), as well as having a long-term ‘scarring effect’.

Youth work, in particular detached youth work, is a very effective tool to enhance the skills, development and social inclusion of young people in times of high youth unemployment. The Commission portal on youth work says that ‘Youth work has an impact on young people’s life and helps them to reach their full potential’ and the EU Youth Strategy 2010-18 includes youth work (promoting opportunities to develop autonomy and key competences) in its priority areas. In addition, in the context of the crisis, the Commission has proposed the Youth Opportunities Initiative in an effort to enhance the employability of young people.

However, youth work is very developed in certain Member States, but under-developed in others. In times of financial crisis, it is very important that youth work does not lose ground, and it should focus particularly on marginalised and disadvantaged young people with fewer opportunities. In line with this, is the Commission planning on launching any initiatives to address this imbalance between different Member States?

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(12 September 2013)

The Commission shares the opinion expressed by the Member as to the effectiveness of youth work in the development of skills and competences of young people; the non-formal learning approach implemented by youth work is a useful way to enhance the employability of young people as well as their active participation in society, thus contributing to their social inclusion.

The Commission promotes youth work in various ways, all of which should help, over time, to encourage more balanced progress across the European Union:

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-008448/13

à la Commission

Philippe Boulland (PPE)

(11 juillet 2013)

Objet: Le bon fonctionnement de la libre circulation des capitaux

Une législation nationale est-elle compatible avec le droit de l'Union — en particulier avec la libre circulation des capitaux — qui ne permet le retour des biens confisqués qu'après l'adhésion d'un État membre, dans un processus de restitution aux seuls citoyens de ces États membres et qui exclut même les héritiers s'ils ne disposent pas de la citoyenneté desdits États membres?

Réponse donnée par M. Barnier au nom de la Commission

(3 septembre 2013)

La restitution de biens confisqués est considérée comme un mouvement de capitaux. En outre, il ressort de l'annexe à la directive du Conseil du 24 juin 1988 (19) que les mouvements de capitaux comprennent les successions, qui constituent une catégorie de mouvements de capitaux à caractère personnel. Le traité sur le fonctionnement de l'Union européenne interdit toutes les restrictions aux mouvements de capitaux entre les États membres et entre les États membres et les pays tiers (20).

Le traité, ainsi que l'a précisé la Cour de justice européenne dans sa jurisprudence, prévoit certaines exceptions à la libre circulation des capitaux, à condition qu'elles soient justifiées par des motifs énoncés dans le traité (21) ou par des raisons impérieuses d'intérêt général. Toute restriction doit en outre respecter le principe de proportionnalité, qui suppose que les mesures adoptées soient appropriées et n'excèdent pas ce qui est nécessaire pour atteindre leurs objectifs et qu'elles soient non discriminatoires.

Dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre de la législation européenne, les États membres doivent également respecter la Charte des droits fondamentaux de l'Union européenne, notamment le droit à la propriété et le principe de non-discrimination. Toutefois, dans ce contexte, les discriminations fondées sur la nationalité ne renvoient qu'à la nationalité dans le cadre des États membres de l'Union européenne.

Étant donné le peu d'informations dont dispose la Commission, il est impossible de fournir une réponse plus détaillée concernant la situation évoquée par l'Honorable Parlementaire.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008448/13

to the Commission

Philippe Boulland (PPE)

(11 July 2013)

Subject: The proper functioning of the free movement of capital

Is national legislation compatible with EC law, in particular with regard to the free movement of capital, when it only allows confiscated property to be returned once a Member State has joined the Union, in a process that provides for property to be returned only to EU citizens and excludes non-EU nationals, even where they are the legal heirs?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

Restitution of property is considered a capital movement. Furthermore, it follows from the annex to Council Directive of 24 June 1988 (22) that capital movements include inheritances as a category of personal capital movements. The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union prohibits all restrictions on the movement of capital between Member States and between Member States and third countries (23).

The Treaty, as further specified in case law by the European Court of Justice, allows for certain exceptions to the free movement of capital, provided that these restrictions are justified on the grounds set out in the Treaty (24) or by overriding reasons in the general interest. Any restriction also have to observe the principle of proportionality, requiring that the measures are appropriate to attain the objectives which they pursue and do not go beyond what is necessary in order to attain them, and have to be non-discriminatory.

When implementing EC law, Member States should also respect the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, including the right to property and the principle of non-discrimination. However, in that context, discrimination on the grounds of nationality refers only to the nationality in the context of the EU Member States.

Based on the limited amount of information available to the Commission, it is not possible to give a more detailed answer regarding the situation referred to by the Honourable Member.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008449/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Charles Tannock (ECR)

(11 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Blacklisting of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards

The Iranian Revolutionary Guards (IRG) have operated since 1979 as, effectively, a vast and private militia, directly answerable to the Supreme Leader. They have been responsible for crushing dissent inside Iran, and are accused of funding numerous terrorist activities outside the country. In particular, they have allegedly funded and armed the Taliban, Hamas and Hezbollah, assassinated Iranian dissidents abroad, and assisted the planning of multiple plots to commit atrocities, particularly in Israel, a country which the IRG have stated they wish to destroy. In 2011, US Attorney-General Eric Holder accused the IRG of plotting to kill the Saudi Ambassador to Washington, and there has recently been evidence that IRG soldiers are fighting alongside President Assad’s brutal militias in Syria. Indeed, some analysts have argued that the combined threat of Hezbollah and the Quds force, the special operations branch of the IRG, outweighs that of even Al-Qaeda; between May 2011 and July 2012, 20 terrorist attacks by Hezbollah or Quds were thwarted worldwide.

The United States and Canada have already proscribed Quds as a terrorist organisation. In the face of mounting evidence of the terrorist activities of both Quds and the IRG more widely, many experts from across the political spectrum have argued that an EU blacklisting as a terrorist organisation could help to coordinate an effective response to Iran’s terrorist threat, in tandem with nuclear sanctions, and block key funding on which the IRG depends.

How does the VP/HR assess the evidence relating to the IRG, in particular its Quds force?

Given the EU’s commitment to fighting international terrorism, and its designation of Hamas, which is also an organisation indiscriminately targeting civilians, would she encourage the Member States to blacklist the IRG as well?

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

(5 September 2013)

The EU has serious concerns regarding the activity of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), inside Iran as well as in the wider Middle East region.

The IRGC has been listed by the EU since July 2010, under the Iran nuclear sanctions regime, for its responsibility in relation to the nuclear programme. As part of the IRGC, the IRGC Quds Force is also listed. In addition, a number of members of IRGC and other entities owned or controlled by IRGC are also listed under the nuclear sanctions regime because of their involvement in the Iranian nuclear programme. A number of members of the IRGC also appear on the EU list of people responsible for serious human rights violations in Iran, under the EU's sanctions regime addressing the human rights situation in Iran. Finally, three IRGC commanders‐ under whom Qasim Soleimany, are designated under the Syria sanctions regime in relation to their support to help the Syrian regime suppress protests in Syria.

The designation of persons, groups or entities involved in terrorist acts is regulated by Council Common Position 2001/931/CFSP (CP931). The IRGC is not designated in the frame of this Common Position.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008450/13

to the Commission

Syed Kamall (ECR)

(11 July 2013)

Subject: Surveillance of foreign nationals by the US Government

I have been contacted by a constituent who is concerned about the recently leaked report that the US Government is spying on foreign nationals (including EU citizens) by accessing and intercepting online customer data from companies such as Facebook and Hotmail.

My constituent believes that what he refers to as this ‘cloak-and-dagger surveillance’ operates beyond the control of citizens of the UK and other EU Member States, is morally wrong and is potentially illegal according to Article 8 of the Human Rights Act and the UK Data Protection Act.

My constituent is also concerned that this surveillance programme has been used to uncover and steal business secrets which could further damage the EU economy.

Could the Commission confirm:

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

The Commision would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to written question E-007934/13.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008739/13

alla Commissione

Crescenzio Rivellini (PPE)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Estensione dell'uso di JASPERS ad altri Stati membri

Il meccanismo di assistenza tecnica JASPERS stabilito per i nuovi paesi che hanno aderito all'UE nel 2004 e nel 2007 fornisce agli Stati membri interessati un sostegno e una competenza specializzata mirata relativamente ai principali progetti finanziati dall'UE.

Sin dal momento in cui è diventato operativo nel 2006, il partenariato ha portato a compimento più di 694 procedure per un ammontare complessivo di quasi 64 miliardi di euro, rispetto ai quali il volume di investimento dei progetti approvato dalla Commissione è ammontato a circa 30 miliardi di euro.

Più recentemente, il meccanismo è stato esteso alla Croazia e alla Grecia, mostrando l'efficacia dello strumento nel potenziare e nell'accelerare l'assorbimento dei fondi disponibili negli Stati membri dell'UE grazie all'aumento della quantità e della qualità dei progetti per i quali è stato richiesto il finanziamento nel quadro dei Fondi strutturali e del Fondo di coesione.

Alla luce di quanto precede:

Risposta di Johannes Hahn a nome della Commissione

(20 agosto 2013)

JASPERS è stato varato per fornire sostegno agli Stati membri che hanno aderito all'UE nel 2004 e dopo tale data. Lo strumento era giustificato dalla necessità di garantire assistenza agli Stati membri nell'elaborazione di grandi progetti infrastrutturali da finanziare a valere sul Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale e sul Fondo di coesione, in particolare nei settori in cui tali Stati membri non disponevano delle conoscenze e dell'esperienza necessarie. Più recentemente la Commissione ha convenuto di offrire un certo sostegno alla Grecia, nel quadro dello strumento JASPERS, per potenziare la capacità delle autorità greche di approntare validi progetti di rapida attuazione nel contesto dell'attuale crisi economica.

La Commissione non intende estendere i servizi di consulenza specifici offerti da JASPERS ad altri Stati membri oltre i 13 che attualmente ne beneficiano, auspica tuttavia che JASPERS sia in grado di fungere da meccanismo indipendente di revisione della qualità di grandi progetti accessibile a tutti gli Stati membri.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008739/13

to the Commission

Crescenzio Rivellini (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: Use of Jaspers extended to other Member States

The Jaspers technical assistance facility established for the new countries which joined the EU in 2004 and 2007 has been providing the Member States concerned with support and targeted specialist expertise on major EU-funded projects.

Since it began operating in 2006 the partnership has completed more than 694 assignments for a total volume of almost EUR 64 billion, of which the investment volume of projects approved by the Commission totalled almost EUR 30 billion.

More recently the tool has been extended to Croatia and to Greece, showing the effectiveness of the instrument in enhancing and accelerating the absorption of the available funds in the EU Member States by increasing the quantity and quality of projects applying for financing under the Structural and Cohesion Funds.

With this in mind:

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(20 August 2013)

JASPERS was set up to provide support to the Member States which joined the EU in 2004 and afterwards. This was justified by the need to ensure support to those Member States in the preparation of large infrastructure projects for financing under the European Regional Development Fund and the Cohesion Fund, particularly in areas where those Member States lacked the necessary knowledge and experience. More recently, the Commission agreed to extend some support under JASPERS to Greece, to boost the capacity of the Greek authorities to prepare sound projects for urgent implementation in the context of the current economic crisis.

While the Commission does not intend to extend the specific JASPERS advisory services beyond the 13 Member States currently benefiting, the Commission does expect that JASPERS will be able to function as an independent quality review mechanism for major projects accessible for all Member States.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-008740/13

an die Kommission

Hermann Winkler (PPE)

(16. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Förderung des Tabakanbaus in Europa und Zusammenhang mit der Novellierung der Richtlinie über Tabakprodukte

Auch in der zukünftigen EU-Förderperiode wird es voraussichtlich möglich sein, europäische Fördermittel für den Anbau und die Verarbeitung von Rohtabak als Agrarprodukt zu beantragen. Darüber hinaus erlaubt die Europäische Kommission explizit die gesonderte Förderung des Tabakanbaus durch die Mitgliedstaaten (vgl. Zulassung ergänzender Beihilfen für die Kanaren — Verordnung (EU) Nr. 228/2013 vom 13. März 2013). Zugleich soll die Richtlinie über Tabakprodukte auch nach Vorstellungen der Europäischen Kommission erheblich verschärft werden, um über eine stärkere Regulierung von Produktion und Handel von Tabakwaren den Konsum derselben innerhalb der EU einzuschränken.

Antwort von Herrn Cioloş im Namen der Kommission

(9. September 2013)

Im Rahmen der Reform der gemeinsamen Agrarpolitik (GAP) aus dem Jahr 2003 lief die besondere finanzielle Förderung der Rohtabakerzeugung 2009 aus. Für die Erzeugung von Rohtabak gelten nun ausschließlich die allgemeinen Instrumente der Agrarpolitik. Durch die Betriebsprämienregelung bzw. die Regelung für die einheitliche Flächenzahlung der GAP kann unter bestimmten Voraussetzungen unabhängig davon, welche Art von Erzeugnissen die Landwirte tatsächlich herstellen, finanzielle Unterstützung gewährt werden. Die Tabakerzeugung wird dabei neutral behandelt.

Bis 2014 können die Mitgliedstaaten jedoch beschließen, einen begrenzten Anteil ihrer nationalen Mittel für die Betriebsprämienregelung oder die Regelung für die einheitliche Flächenzahlung zu verwenden, um in klar definierten Fällen für bestimmte Erzeugnisse, einschließlich Tabak, besondere Unterstützung zu gewähren. Allerdings gehört Tabak nicht zu den Erzeugnissen, die im Rahmen der ab 2015 geltenden fakultativen gekoppelten Stützungsregelung förderfähig sind. Ziel dieser neuen Regelung ist es, Regionen oder Branchen Unterstützung zu gewähren, in denen bestimmte Schwierigkeiten auftreten. Ziel ist nicht die Erhöhung der erzeugten Mengen. Dies gilt auch für die Beihilfe, mit der verschiedene Erzeugnisse auf den Kanarischen Inseln gefördert werden.

Darüber hinaus bieten die Programme zur Entwicklung des ländlichen Raums innerhalb der GAP zahlreiche Möglichkeiten, Landwirte zu unterstützen, die strukturelle Veränderungen in der Erzeugung beschließen.

Nur durch ein auf EU-Ebene abgestimmtes Vorgehen ist es möglich, Hindernisse für den grenzüberschreitenden Handel auszuräumen, die Fragmentierung durch unterschiedliche Vorschriften in den einzelnen Mitgliedstaaten zu verhindern und gleichzeitig EU-weit ein hohes Maß an Gesundheitsschutz zu gewährleisten. Diesbezüglich wird bereits durch die Richtlinie 2001/37/EG (25), die derzeit überarbeitet wird, eine Harmonisierung im Bereich der Tabakerzeugnisse vorgenommen, z. B. hinsichtlich der Aufmachung der Verpackungen und der obligatorischen Gesundheitswarnungen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008740/13

to the Commission

Hermann Winkler (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: Aid for tobacco farming in Europe and link to the revision of the directive on tobacco products

It will probably again be possible during the forthcoming aid period to apply for European aid funds for growing and processing raw tobacco as an agricultural product. Moreover, the European Commission explicitly allows separate subsidisation of tobacco farming by the Member States (see the authorisation for additional aid to the Canary Islands in Regulation (EU) No 228/2013 of 13 March 2013). At the same time, even the European Commission considers that the directive on tobacco products should be substantially tightened up, in order to limit the consumption of tobacco products within the EU by regulating the production of and trade in such products more strictly.

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(9 September 2013)

Special financial support for the raw tobacco production was phased out in 2009 according to the reform of the common agricultural policy (CAP) of 2003. The production of raw tobacco is fully integrated into the general agricultural policy instruments. The single payment scheme (SPS or SAPS) of the CAP, under certain conditions, provides financial support independently from which kind of commodities farmers actually produce. Tobacco production is treated in a neutral way.

However, until 2014 Member States may decide to use a limited percentage of their national ceiling for SPS or SAPS for granting specific support in clearly defined cases for targeted products including tobacco. However, the tobacco sector is not included in the list of products eligible to the voluntary coupled support scheme applicable from 2015 onwards. The aim of this new scheme is to grant a support in regions or sectors undergoing certain difficulties. The objective is not increasing the production. The aid to the Canary Islands for several products is guided by the same objective.

Furthermore, the Rural Development (RD) programmes of the CAP, offer numerous possibilities to help farmers who decide structural changes in production.

Only a harmonised approach at EU-level can remove obstacles to cross-border trade and avoid fragmentation resulting from different regulations in Member States, while ensuring a comparable high level of health protection across the EU. In this context, Directive 2001/37/EC (26), which is currently under revision already provides for the harmonisation of tobacco products as relates for example to the presentation of the package and the health warnings to be featured.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008741/13

alla Commissione

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR), Roberta Angelilli (PPE), Niccolò Rinaldi (ALDE) e Patrizia Toia (S&D)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Aumenti tariffari ingiustificati dei prodotti omeopatici

Il decreto legge italiano del 13 settembre 2012 n. 158 dispone all'articolo 13 la registrazione dei prodotti omeopatici attraverso procedure semplificate, ribadite recentemente dalla Commissione in risposta ad un'interrogazione di eurodeputati italiani. Al comma 2 dello stesso articolo 13 si fa riferimento alle tariffe di registrazione e si afferma: «Le tariffe vigenti (…) sono aggiornate con decreto del Ministro della Salute da adottare entro il 30 novembre 2012, con un incremento del 10 % dei relativi importi, applicabile dal 1° gennaio 2013». Tale decreto, però, pubblicato nella G.U. n. 63 del 15 marzo 2013, stabilisce l'aggiornamento dei tariffari oltre il 700 % in evidente e aperto contrasto con il comma 2 sopra citato. Queste misure contrastano nettamente con quanto avviene in diversi altri Stati europei (vedi Francia e Germania) e danneggiano in modo irreversibile la competitività delle aziende italiane costrette a ritirare prodotti dal mercato per gli alti oneri di registrazione, oltre che delle aziende straniere che operano in Italia, terzo mercato europeo dopo Francia e Germania.

Può la Commissione riferire se:

Risposta di Tonio Borg a nome della Commissione

(13 settembre 2013)

Prescrizioni come quelle contenute nel decreto legge italiano menzionato dagli onorevoli deputati nella loro interrogazione, che impongono tariffe per la registrazione nazionale dei prodotti omeopatici, rientrano nella responsabilità esclusiva delle autorità degli Stati membri.

La Commissione non ha potere per intervenire nella definizione di tali tariffe a livello nazionale.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008741/13

to the Commission

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR), Roberta Angelilli (PPE), Niccolò Rinaldi (ALDE) and Patrizia Toia (S&D)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: Unjustified increases in fees for homoeopathic products

Article 13 of Italian Decree-Law No 158 of 13 September 2012 provides for the registration of homoeopathic products by means of simplified procedures, something that was recently reaffirmed by the Commission in answer to a question from Italian MEPs. Paragraph 2 of the aforementioned Article 13 refers to registration fees and states that the fees in force will be updated by a decree from the Ministry of Health, to be adopted by 30 November 2012, with an increase of 10% applied to the relevant amounts from 1 January 2013. However, this decree, which was published in Official Gazette No 63 of 15 March 2013, stipulates a fee increase of over 700%, in clear and blatant contrast with the aforementioned paragraph 2. These measures clearly stand at odds with the procedures in various other EU Member States (e.g. France and Germany) and irreversibly damage the competitiveness of Italian businesses, which are forced to withdraw products from the market because of high registration fees, as well as that of foreign companies operating in Italy, the third biggest market in Europe after France and Germany.

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(13 September 2013)

Rules, such as those of the Italian Decree-Law mentioned by the Honourable Members in their question, setting fees for the national registration of homeopathic medicines are the exclusive responsibility of Member State authorities.

The Commission is not empowered to intervene in the setting of these fees at national level.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008742/13

alla Commissione

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR), Roberta Angelilli (PPE), Erminia Mazzoni (PPE) e Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Voto di genere

Le elezioni amministrative per i Comuni tenutesi in Italia nel mese di maggio hanno visto l’introduzione del cosiddetto voto di genere, la possibilità cioè di esprimere non una, ma due preferenze nominative per le assemblee elettive, a patto che la seconda preferenza espressa fosse attribuita a persona diversa, per genere, da quella indicata con la prima preferenza.

L’iniziativa, già avviata nell’autunno 2012 alle elezioni per l’Assemblea regionale siciliana, è ancora ai suoi inizi e, nonostante la limitata conoscenza della possibilità di voto di genere da parte degli elettori, ha consentito un aumento della presenza di rappresentanti elette di genere femminile.

Nella legislatura che tra un anno andrà a conclusione, il Parlamento europeo è invece caratterizzato da una forte disparità di genere, tanto più grave in virtù del differente grado di parità/disparità di genere che si registra negli ormai 28 Stati membri che costituiscono i collegi elettorali dello stesso Parlamento europeo. A fronte di paesi con perfetta o pressoché perfetta ripartizione di genere della propria rappresentanza al Parlamento europeo — come Finlandia, Slovenia, Estonia, Paesi Bassi e Danimarca — la maggior parte degli Stati comunitari vede il genere femminile ampiamente sottorappresentato nella propria delegazione in questa stessa Assemblea.

Può la Commissione far sapere se è in grado, attraverso la stessa commissaria Reding, di approntare una direttiva o altro provvedimento da indirizzare agli Stati membri affinché alle elezioni europee del prossimo anno adottino accorgimenti, sulla falsariga di quello introdotto dall’Italia per le assemblee locali, attraverso cui ridurre il divario della propria rappresentanza femminile in seno alle istituzioni comunitarie?

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(24 settembre 2013)

L'organizzazione di elezioni rientra nelle competenze degli Stati membri. Tuttavia, incoraggiare la partecipazione dei cittadini dell’UE alla vita democratica è una priorità della Commissione.

Nel 2007 la Commissione ha adottato misure per eliminare gli squilibri di genere nel Parlamento europeo, con l’adozione del programma specifico Diritti fondamentali e cittadinanza. Più precisamente, una delle priorità tematiche annuali per il 2011 verteva sul miglioramento dell’equilibrio di genere in seno al Parlamento europeo. Pertanto, la Commissione ha erogato finanziamenti a diversi progetti di ONG e di altre organizzazioni nell’ambito di questa priorità.

Inoltre, la strategia della Commissione per la parità tra donne e uomini (2010-2015) (27) annovera tra le sue priorità la promozione della pari rappresentanza nei processi decisionali. La Commissione controlla periodicamente la situazione tramite la sua banca dati sulle presenze maschili e femminili nei processi decisionali (28), ma anche tramite la sua «relazione sui progressi verso la parità tra donne e uomini», pubblicata annualmente, e altre relazioni specifiche sulla presenza di entrambi nei processi decisionali.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008742/13

to the Commission

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR), Roberta Angelilli (PPE), Erminia Mazzoni (PPE) and Sonia Alfano (ALDE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: The gender vote

The local council elections held in Italy in May 2013 saw the introduction of the ‘voto di genere’ (gender vote), which gave voters the option of choosing not one, but two candidates for the elected assemblies, provided that the second choice was of a different gender from the first.

The initiative, which had already been applied in autumn 2012 during the Sicilian Regional Assembly elections, is still in its infancy and, despite the lack of awareness about this gender vote possibility among the electorate, has led to an increase in the number of female representatives elected.

However, in its current term, due to end next year, Parliament is marked by a large gender gap, which is even more serious considering the different levels of gender equality/inequality in the now 28 Member States that make up the electoral colleges of Parliament itself. Compared with countries with a perfect or almost perfect gender balance in their representations in Parliament — such as Finland, Slovenia, Estonia, the Netherlands and Denmark — women are greatly under-represented in the delegations of most Member States in Parliament.

Can the Commission, through Commissioner Reding, prepare a directive or other measure to call upon the Member States to adopt procedures for next year’s European elections, along the lines of that introduced in Italy for local councils, to reduce the disparity in the representation of women within the European institutions?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(24 September 2013)

Organisation of elections falls within the remit of Member States. However, encouraging the participation of EU citizens in the democratic life is a high priority on the Commission's agenda.

The Commission took measures to address the gender imbalance in the European Parliament with the adoption in 2007 of the specific programme Fundamental Rights and Citizenship. More specifically, one of the annual thematic priorities for 2011 was dedicated to improving the gender balance in the European Parliament. Thus, the Commission has been funding several projects of NGOs and other organisations awarded under this priority.

Furthermore, the Commission's Strategy for Equality between Women and Men (2010-2015) (29) has amongst its priorities the promotion of equal representation in decision-making. The Commission monitors regularly the situation through its database on women and men in decision-making (30), its ‘Report on Progress on Equality between Women and Men’ published annually and other specific reports on women and men in decision-making.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008743/13

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Violazione dei diritti umani nelle aree tribali del Pakistan

Milioni di persone vivono in uno stato costante di assenza di legalità nelle aree tribali del Pakistan, in cui, sotto il controllo delle diverse tribù Pashtun che popolano l'area, gli abusi commessi dall'esercito e dai talebani sono all'ordine del giorno.

Secondo quanto dichiarato da rappresentanti di Ong presenti sul posto, molti uomini fermati dalle forze dell'ordine hanno denunciato di essere stati torturati, altri non sono stati più visti dopo essere stati trasferiti in centri segreti di detenzione.

Anche i talebani e gli altri gruppi armati continuano a costituire una minaccia mortale per la società pakistana, rendendosi spesso responsabili di uccisioni brutali e illegali di soldati fatti prigionieri o di presunte spie, talvolta a seguito di procedimenti paragiudiziari che non rispettano neanche i requisiti minimi del diritto internazionale sui processi equi.

Sebbene negli ultimi tre anni abbiano ripreso il controllo di buona parte delle aree tribali, le forze armate hanno arrestato arbitrariamente migliaia di persone, tenendole per lungo tempo in carcere nella pressoché totale assenza di garanzie sul giusto processo.

Le garanzie fondamentali in materia di protezione dei diritti umani previste dalla Costituzione del Pakistan non sono in vigore nelle aree tribali, dove vige il regolamento sui crimini di frontiera risalente all'era coloniale.

Nel 2011, inoltre, i regolamenti di azione a sostegno del potere civile hanno dato all'esercito ulteriori poteri arbitrari d'arresto e imprigionamento. Né le corti d'appello né il parlamento hanno giurisdizione sulle aree tribali e nonostante i tribunali abbiamo preso in esame ricorsi contro la legittimità di alcune detenzioni, non vi è stato alcun procedimento nei confronti di militari sospettati di torture, sparizioni forzate e decessi in stato di custodia. I modesti tentativi del governo pakistano di modificare il regolamento sui crimini di frontiera non sono stati all'altezza delle norme e degli standard internazionali sui diritti umani e sono stati ulteriormente compromessi dall'entrata in vigore dei regolamenti del 2011.

Quali azioni intende dunque promuovere l'Alto Rappresentante per sollecitare il governo pakistano a una riforma del proprio sistema legale, profondamente difettoso e causa del perpetuarsi del ciclo di violenze nelle aree tribali?

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

(23 settembre 2013)

In merito all’azione dell’UE volta a promuovere le riforme del sistema giuridico nelle zone tribali del Pakistan, l’AR/VP rinvia l’onorevole parlamentare alla risposta scritta E-011530/2012. La questione sarà sollevata con il nuovo governo pachistano in occasione del prossimo dialogo UE‐Pakistan sui diritti umani previsto nell’autunno 2013.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008743/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Violation of human rights in Pakistan's tribal areas

Millions of people are living in perpetual lawlessness in Pakistan’s tribal areas where, under the control of the various Pashtun tribes which inhabit the area, abuses committed by the armed forces and the Taliban are a common occurrence.

According to statements by United Nations representatives on the ground, many men detained by the armed forces have alleged torture, and others have never been seen again after being transferred to secret detention centres.

The Taliban and other armed groups also continue to pose a deadly threat to Pakistani society, often carrying out brutal, unlawful killings of captured soldiers or suspected spies, sometimes following quasi-judicial proceedings that fail to meet even the most basic international fair trial standards.

Although the armed forces have regained control of most of the tribal areas over the past three years, they have arbitrarily arrested thousands of people, imprisoning them for long periods with virtually no due-process safeguards.

Fundamental human rights protections guaranteed in Pakistan’s constitution are not enforceable in the tribal areas, which are governed by the colonial-era Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR).

Moreover, in 2011 the armed forces were granted further sweeping powers of arrest and detention under the Actions (in Aid of Civil Power) Regulations. Neither Pakistan’s high courts nor its parliament have jurisdiction over the tribal areas. Although the courts have nevertheless heard cases challenging the lawfulness of some detentions, there have been no prosecutions of armed forces personnel for alleged torture, enforced disappearance or deaths in custody. Limited attempts by the Pakistani Government to reform the FCR have fallen far short of international human rights law and standards, and have been further undermined by the entry into force of the 2011 regulations.

What action will the High Representative therefore take to urge the Pakistani Government to reform its legal system, which is deeply flawed and the cause of the constant violence in the tribal areas?

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

(23 September 2013)

Concerning EU action taken to encourage reform of the legal system in Pakistan’s tribal areas, the HR/VP refers the Honourable Member to the answer to Written Question E-011530/2012. This issue will be raised with the new government of Pakistan in the next EU-Pakistan human rights dialogue which is expected to take place in the autumn of 2013.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008744/13

alla Commissione

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Anomala moria di delfini nel Mar Tirreno

Dall'inizio dell'anno un allarme ambientale si sta diffondendo nei mari italiani: da gennaio decine di carcasse di delfino nella varietà Stenella striata sono state ritrovate lungo le coste del Mar Tirreno, il che rappresenta un tasso di mortalità decisamente anomalo a fronte di una media storica di circa 4 ritrovamenti l'anno.

Il Ministero dell'Ambiente ha deciso di monitorare la situazione e di allertare il reparto ambientale marino.

Secondo i primi accertamenti sarebbe possibile escludere, quale causa dell'insolita moria, eventi eccezionali causati dall'uomo, come versamenti in mare di petrolio o di sostanze inquinanti. Sembra essere invece probabile una causa di natura infettiva a causa delle tracce del batterio Photobacterium Damselae rinvenute su 6 carcasse esaminate. Per avvalorare tale ipotesi gli esperti sono alla ricerca dell'eventuale presenza di virus o fioritura di alghe anomale.

In attesa di dati certi che mettano a confronto le conoscenze teoriche sulle correnti marine con i dati meteo-marini degli ultimi mesi, il Ministero dell'Ambiente italiano ha richiesto informazioni su eventuali spiaggiamenti avvenuti in Francia e in Spagna per avere un quadro più preciso della situazione.

È la Commissione a conoscenza dell'insolita moria di delfini nelle acque del Mar Tirreno negli ultimi mesi? Se sì, ha essa avviato indagini per capire le ragioni di tale fenomeno?

Risposta di Janez Potočnik a nome della Commissione

(30 agosto 2013)

La Commissione rinvia l'onorevole parlamentare alle sue risposte alle interrogazioni precedenti identiche E-002419/2013 e E-03794/2013 (31).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008744/13

to the Commission

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: Unusual dolphin deaths in the Tyrrhenian Sea

Since the start of the year an environmental crisis has been affecting the seas off Italy: since January, dozens of striped dolphin carcasses have been found along the Tyrrhenian coast. This represents an abnormally high mortality rate compared with the historical average of about four corpses found per year.

The Ministry of the Environment has decided to monitor the situation and to alert the marine environment department.

According to initial findings, any exceptional man-made events, such as oil spills or pollution, can be ruled out as the cause of these unusual deaths. The probable cause actually seems to be an infection, as shown by the traces of the Photobacterium Damselae bacterium found in six of the carcasses examined. In order to confirm this hypothesis, experts are looking for the presence of viruses or abnormal algae blooms.

Pending concrete data comparing theoretical knowledge of sea currents with marine weather data from the last few months, the Italian Ministry of the Environment has requested information about any animals washed up on the beaches of France and Spain in order to obtain a more accurate picture of the situation.

Is the Commission aware of the unusual dolphin deaths in the Tyrrhenian Sea over the last few months? If so, has it launched an investigation to establish the cause?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(30 August 2013)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answers to previous identical questions E-002419/2013 and E-03794/2013 (32).

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008745/13

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Condizioni di lavoro inadeguate nelle fabbriche di abbigliamento al confine tra Birmania e Tailandia

Mae Sot, città di confine tra Birmania e Tailandia, conta quasi 38.000 lavoratori tailandesi e più di 60.000 lavoratori birmani. Molte delle aziende in cui sono occupati producono abbigliamento per marchi internazionali o applicano illegalmente etichette di marchi internazionali.

Vi sono circa 150 fabbriche di abbigliamento a Mae Sot e il 95 % dei lavoratori e delle lavoratrici sono birmani. Altre piccole fabbriche della zona lavorano in subappalto. Molte sfruttano il lavoro in nero dei birmani e producono prodotti con marchi falsi.

I lavoratori birmani clandestini vivono spesso nelle fabbriche dove lavorano, dormono e mangiano e vengono nascosti ogni qualvolta vengano compiute ispezioni da parte della polizia tailandese. Solo gli immigrati regolari sono assunti con contratto. I dormitori sono inadeguati e sovraffollati, le condizioni igieniche mancano del tutto e, a peggiorare la già complicata situazione, non esistono procedure per risolvere eventuali conflitti sorti con i datori di lavoro.

Gli orari di lavoro sono estremamente lunghi e non di rado i lavoratori effettuano gli straordinari sino alle 11 di sera. Secondo quanto riportato da fonti locali, in alcune aziende sarebbero impiegati anche i bambini delle lavoratrici migranti adibiti alla pulizia nelle fabbriche tessili.

Alla luce di quanto esposto, quali azioni intende intraprendere l'Alto Rappresentante per sollecitare le autorità tailandesi e birmane a promuovere migliori condizioni di lavoro e un salario adeguato nelle fabbriche della città di Mae Sot così come in altre fabbriche di città limitrofe che vivono la stessa, drammatica, emergenza?

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

(11 settembre 2013)

L’AR/VP è a conoscenza delle segnalazioni riguardanti le condizioni dei lavoratori in Thailandia.

L’UE si occupa della questione in diversi modi, sia attraverso i dialoghi bilaterali con le autorità thailandesi che nell’ambito degli organi internazionali competenti.

L’UE sostiene la ratifica e l’effettiva applicazione delle convenzioni dell’Organizzazione internazionale del lavoro (OIL), in particolare in relazione alle norme fondamentali del lavoro, e collabora a tal riguardo con l’OIL. La Commissione continuerà a seguire da vicino le attività dell’OIL in termini di controllo dell’attuazione di tali norme da parte della Thailandia nel quadro delle convenzioni OIL.

Inoltre, la Commissione promuove attivamente la responsabilità sociale delle imprese (RSI) e raccomanda che queste ultime aderiscano a tal riguardo ai principi e orientamenti riconosciuti a livello internazionale, compresi le linee guida dell’OCSE sulle imprese multinazionali, la dichiarazione tripartita dell’OIL sulle imprese multinazionali e i principi guida dell’ONU in materia di attività economiche e diritti umani. Tali strumenti riguardano anche la salute, la sicurezza e le condizioni di lavoro nella catena d’approvvigionamento delle imprese.

Una volta concluso, l’accordo di partenariato e di cooperazione UE-Thailandia fornirà un quadro supplementare per il dialogo e la collaborazione con la Thailandia riguardo a tali questioni. Inoltre, nei negoziati avviati di recente su un accordo di libero scambio UE-Thailandia, l’UE attribuisce una grande importanza all’inclusione di disposizioni in materia di commercio e sviluppo sostenibile. In tale contesto, l’UE punta a introdurre alcuni riferimenti all’effettiva applicazione delle norme fondamentali del lavoro e a rafforzare i canali di dialogo tra le parti su tali argomenti, ivi comprese le rispettive parti interessate.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008745/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Unsuitable working conditions in clothing factories along the border between Myanmar/Burma and Thailand

Mae Sot, a town on the border between Myanmar/Burma and Thailand, is home to almost 38 000 Thai workers and over 60 000 from Myanmar/Burma. Many of the companies in which they work produce clothes for international brands or illegally use international brand labels.

There are some 150 clothing factories in Mae Sot and 95% of the workers come from Myanmar/Burma. Some of the work is subcontracted to other small factories in the region. Many factories exploit the workers from Myanmar/Burma, paying them illegally, and produce fake branded products.

The illegal workers from Myanmar/Burma often live in the factories where they work, sleep and eat and are hidden away whenever inspections are conducted by the Thai police. Only legal immigrants are given an employment contract. The dormitories are too small and overcrowded, there is a total lack of hygiene and, to make an already complicated situation even worse, there are no procedures in place to resolve any disputes that arise with their employers.

The working hours are extremely long and the workers are often required to work overtime until 11 p.m. According to local sources, even the children of some migrant workers are employed to clean the textile factories.

In view of the above, what steps does the High Representative intend to take to urge the Thai authorities and the authorities of Myanmar/Burma to promote better working conditions and suitable salaries in the factories of Mae Sot, as well as in other factories in neighbouring towns where the same tragic situation prevails?

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

(11 September 2013)

The HR/VP is aware of reports regarding working conditions for workers in Thailand.

The EU pursues this matter in several ways, both in bilateral dialogues with the Thai authorities, and within the relevant international bodies.

The EU supports the ratification and effective implementation of the Conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), in particular with regard to the core labour standards, and cooperates with the ILO in this respect. The Commission will continue to follow closely the ILO work in monitoring the implementation by Thailand of labour standards under the ILO Conventions.

The Commission also actively promotes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and recommends that companies adhere to internationally recognised CSR principles and guidelines, including the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Guidelines on Multinational Enterprises, the ILO Tripartite Declaration on Multinational Enterprises, and the UN Guiding Principles on business and human rights. Such instruments also address health, safety and labour conditions along companies' supply chain.

When finally concluded, the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement will provide for an additional framework for discussion and engagement with Thailand on these topics. Furthermore, in the recently launched negotiations of the EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the EU attaches great importance to including provisions on trade and sustainable development. In this context, the EU aims at including references to the effective implementation of core labour standards, as well as creating strengthened channels for dialogue between the Parties on these matters, including with relevant stakeholders.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008746/13

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Preoccupante situazione ad Haiti a tre anni e mezzo dal terremoto

Il terremoto che il 12 gennaio 2010 colpì Haiti causò la morte di 200.000 persone e lasciò sulla strada più di due milioni di haitiani. A circa tre anni e mezzo di distanza la situazione abitativa nel paese resta sconcertante, con circa 350.000 persone che si trovano ancora a vivere nei 496 campiprofughi sorti dopo il terremoto.

Le condizioni di vita nelle tendopoli peggiorano di giorno in giorno e si registrano difficoltà di accesso all'acqua, ai servizi igienici e ai sistemi di raccolta dei rifiuti, che hanno contribuito alla diffusione del colera e di altre malattie infettive. Inoltre le donne e le ragazze, come già sottolineato in una precedente interrogazione scritta, rischiano quotidianamente stupri e altre forme di violenza sessuale.

Nell'aprile 2012, le autorità di Haiti hanno annunciato un piano nazionale sugli alloggi, che pur definendo una serie di priorità per la costruzione di nuove abitazioni, non specificava in che modo i più poveri potevano avere accesso ad alloggi adeguati e in condizioni economicamente sostenibili.

Qualche mese prima, nell'agosto 2011, grazie al sostegno dei donatori internazionali, il governo haitiano aveva lanciato un programma per trasferire i residenti di 50 tendopoli in 16 nuove strutture residenziali, attraverso un incentivo per famiglia di 500 dollari per 12 mesi e 25 dollari per i trasporti. Il progetto ha aiutato alcune famiglie, ma gli incentivi troppo bassi hanno impedito a molte altre di trasferirsi e accedere a una soluzione abitativa a lungo termine.

A peggiorare ulteriormente la situazione è stata la partenza dei principali operatori umanitari da Haiti e la conseguente diminuzione dei finanziamenti.

Alla luce di tutto ciò, quali provvedimenti intende prendere l'Alto Rappresentante per cercare di risolvere la difficile questione degli alloggi ad Haiti? È consapevole che risolvendo tale problema si potranno garantire maggiori diritti alla popolazione haitiana?

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

(3 settembre 2013)

La carenza di alloggi è un problema cronico ad Haiti, anteriore al terremoto. La catastrofe del 2010 ha peggiorato seriamente la situazione a Port-au-Prince costringendo 1,5 milioni di persone a rifugiarsi nei campi per gli sfollati interni.

L’UE ha reagito immediatamente a questa sfida umanitaria. La Commissione europea ha stanziato 157,5 milioni di euro per far fronte alle esigenze umanitarie urgenti (33) e probabilmente il finanziamento proseguirà nel biennio 2014-2015.

Per completare la risposta umanitaria, le autorità nazionali e i donatori internazionali hanno avviato vari progetti per la fornitura di alloggi duraturi. Grazie a queste iniziative e al naturale processo di ritorno nei quartieri di origine, il numero di abitanti nei campi profughi ha registrato un costante calo fino agli attuali 280 000.

Uno dei settori di intervento prioritari dell’Unione europea è la ricostruzione urbana. In collaborazione con gli altri donatori, l’UE ha avviato un ampio programma di ricostruzione per un importo di 56 milioni di euro a favore di oltre 100 000 beneficiari (il programma prevede la ristrutturazione e la ricostruzione di abitazioni nonché la fornitura di accesso a servizi e infrastrutture collegati).

Per trovare una soluzione sostenibile e a lungo termine alla carenza di alloggi ad Haiti, è necessario affrontare le cause strutturali profonde del problema, compresa la povertà diffusa e l’assenza di una politica nazionale per l’edilizia abitativa. A tal fine, l’UE sta collaborando con le autorità nazionali per sostenere le istituzioni responsabili dell’elaborazione di tali politiche.

L’UE ritiene che l’edilizia abitativa sia una componente fondamentale per lo sviluppo di Haiti e prevede di continuare a fornire sostegno a questo settore. Di conseguenza, lo sviluppo e l’habitat urbano sono stati proposti alle autorità haitiane come settore prioritario nel quadro dell’11o FES.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008746/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Iva Zanicchi (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Worrying situation in Haiti three and a half years after the earthquake

The earthquake which struck Haiti on 12 January 2010 left 200 000 people dead and more than 2 million Haitians homeless. Three and a half years on, the housing situation in the country is still appalling, with approximately 350 000 people still living in the 496 refugee camps which were set up following the earthquake.

Living conditions in the tent cities are worsening by the day and there is little access to water, sanitation and waste disposal. This has contributed to the spread of cholera and other infectious diseases. Furthermore, women and girls, as already highlighted in a previous written question, are at constant risk of rape or sexual assault.

In April 2012, the Haitian authorities announced a national housing policy which set out a number of priorities for the construction of new houses, but did not establish the conditions for those living in poverty to access adequate and affordable housing.

Thanks to the support of international donors, a few months earlier, in August 2011, the Haitian Government launched a programme to relocate the residents of 50 tent cities to 16 new residential complexes, offering an incentive of USD 500 per family for 12 months and USD 25 for transport. Although the project has helped some families, the incentives are too low, preventing many others from moving and gaining access to long-term housing.

The withdrawal of the main humanitarian operators from Haiti and the resulting funding cuts are making the situation even worse.

In view of the above, what measures will the High Representative take to try to resolve the difficult issue of housing in Haiti? Is she aware that resolving this problem would secure more rights for the Haitian population?

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

(3 September 2013)

Housing is a chronic problem in Haiti that predates the 2010 earthquake. The disaster severely aggravated the housing shortage in Port-au-Prince and forced 1.5 million people into IDP camps.

The EU responded immediately to this humanitarian challenge. The European Commission has since allocated EUR 157.5 million to address urgent humanitarian needs (34) and financing is likely to continue into 2014-2015.

To complement the humanitarian response, the national authorities and international donors have launched several initiatives aimed at the provision of sustainable housing. Through these initiatives, and the natural process of return to their neighbourhoods of origin, the number of people living in camps has been steadily dropping to reach 280 000 today.

The EU has also made urban reconstruction one of its priority areas of intervention. In collaboration with other donors, the EU has launched a comprehensive EUR 56 million neighbourhood reconstruction programme targeting over 100 ,000 beneficiaries (the programme consists of repairing and rebuilding housing as well as providing access to accompanying services and infrastructure).

A sustainable, long-term solution to the issue of housing in Haiti requires addressing deep-rooted structural causes, including widespread poverty and the absence of a national housing policy. To this end, the EU is working with the Haitian national authorities to support institutions responsible for the development of policies.

The EU considers housing a critical component of Haiti’s development and plans to continue support to this sector. Accordingly, urban development and habitat have been proposed to the Haitian authorities as a focal sector under the 11th EDF.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-008747/13

an die Kommission

Ingeborg Gräßle (PPE)

(16. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: International Management Group

Die International Management Group (IMG) erhält von der Europäischen Kommission für verschiedene Projekte weltweit eine finanzielle Förderung.

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-008748/13

an die Kommission (Vizepräsidentin / Hohe Vertreterin)

Ingeborg Gräßle (PPE)

(16. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: VP/HR — International Management Group

Die International Management Group (IMG) erhält von der Europäischen Kommission für verschiedene Projekte weltweit eine finanzielle Förderung.

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

(24. Oktober 2013)

Die IMG wurde einer Prüfung unterzogen, die zu dem Schluss führte, dass die Verfahren, die die Organisation für Rechnungslegung, Rechnungsprüfung, interne Kontrolle und Auftragsvergabe anwendet, den international anerkannten Standards entsprechen. Die Kommission kann eine solche Organisation beauftragen, Verträge im Rahmen der gemeinsamen Verwaltung durchzuführen. Die Auswahl der Verträge ist auf objektive und transparente Weise zu begründen. Acht der elf laufenden Verträge wurden auf diese Weise vergeben, drei durch Verhandlungsverfahren im Einklang mit den in der Haushaltsordnung festgelegten Bestimmungen für flexible Vergabeverfahren in Krisensituationen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008747/13

to the Commission

Ingeborg Gräßle (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: International Management Group

The International Management Group (IMG) receives financial support from the Commission for various projects throughout the world.

Question for written answer E-008748/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Ingeborg Gräßle (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — International Management Group

The International Management Group (IMG) receives financial support from the Commission for various projects throughout the world.

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

(24 October 2013)

IMG has undergone an assessment which concluded that IMG applies accounting, audit, internal control and procurement procedures equivalent to internationally accepted standards. The Commission may entrust implementation to such an organisation through joint management. The selection has to be justified in an objective and transparent manner. Eight of the 11 ongoing contracts were awarded in this manner, while three through negotiated procedure in accordance with the provisions for flexible contract award procedures in crisis situations defined in the Financial Regulation.

7.All staff members are obliged to declare any conflict of interest they could incur during the accomplishment of tasks. Non-disclosure of any potential conflict of interest would expose staff members to disciplinary sanctions. Members of an evaluation committee have to sign a confidentiality and impartiality declaration. Rules concerning ethical and organisational values are regularly brought to the attention of Delegation staff including local agents.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008750/13

a la Comisión

Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE)

(16 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Litigios comerciales entre la UE y China

El Gobierno chino ha abierto una investigación formal sobre las subvenciones concedidas a la industria vitivinícola europea en represalia por la imposición de aranceles por la UE a las placas solares chinas.

¿Qué medidas está adoptando la Comisión para proteger a los viticultores y los distribuidores de vino de este litigio comercial?

¿Tiene la Comisión algún plan de acción para proteger los intereses europeos, dado que el número de litigios comerciales sigue multiplicándose en proporción directa a los vínculos comerciales?

Respuesta del Sr. De Gucht en nombre de la Comisión

(26 de agosto de 2013)

El 1 de julio de 2013, se abrieron investigaciones antisubvenciones y antidumping relativas a las importaciones de vino de la UE. Los asuntos se encuentran actualmente en su fase preliminar y, con arreglo a las normas de la OMC, China los dará por terminados en un plazo máximo de dieciocho meses a partir de la apertura de las investigaciones.

La Comisión ha intervenido activamente en estos asuntos desde junio de 2013. En este contexto, ha facilitado la ayuda pertinente a los Estados miembros y a las partes interesadas de la industria vitivinícola, y se ha puesto también en contacto con las autoridades chinas para garantizar que haya un buen nivel de cooperación bilateral y que los procedimientos pendientes cumplan las normas de la OMC.

En particular, la Comisión desea subrayar que en junio de 2013 celebró consultas previas constructivas con China. Como resultado de dichas consultas previas, China redujo en su investigación el número de presuntos sistemas de subvenciones.

La Comisión considera que China tiene derecho a abrir investigaciones antisubvenciones y antidumping e imponer medidas de defensa comercial a condición de que se cumplan las normas pertinentes de la OMC.

La Comisión analiza siempre cuidadosamente los aspectos positivos y la evolución de dichas investigaciones y, en este contexto, coopera activamente con las partes interesadas correspondientes. La Comisión respalda de manera especial los derechos de defensa de los exportadores de la UE y está muy atenta a que se cumplan estrictamente las normas pertinentes, incluidas las relativas a la transparencia. De no ser así, la Comisión no dudaría en intervenir como procede.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008750/13

to the Commission

Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: EU-China trade disputes

The Chinese Government has officially launched a formal investigation into subsidies granted to the European wine industry in retaliation against the EU imposing duties on Chinese solar panels.

What measures is the Commission taking to protect wine growers and distributors from this trade dispute?

Does the Commission have an action plan to protect European interests, given that the number of trade disputes continues to multiply in direct relation to commercial ties?

Answer given by Mr De Gucht on behalf of the Commission

(26 August 2013)

Anti-subsidy (AS) and anti-dumping (AD) investigations concerning imports of EU wine were initiated on 1 July 2013. The cases are currently in their preliminary phase and in view of the WTO rules they shall be concluded by China within a maximum period of 18 months after their initiation.

The Commission has been actively intervening in these cases since June 2013. In this context, it has been providing the Member States and wine industry stakeholders with relevant assistance and has been also in contact with the Chinese authorities to ensure a good level of bilateral cooperation and compliance of the pending proceedings with the WTO rules.

In particular, the Commission would like to underline that in June 2013 it held constructive pre-consultations with China. As a result of these pre-consultations, China narrowed down the number of alleged subsidy schemes it is investigating

The Commission is of the opinion that China has the right to initiate AS and AD investigations and to impose trade defence measures provided that the relevant WTO rules are respected.

The Commission always carefully analyses the merits and development of such investigations and in this context actively cooperates with relevant stakeholders. The Commission is particularly vigilant to support the EU exporters' rights of defence and to ensure that the relevant rules, including on transparency, are strictly applied. Should that not be the case, the Commission would not hesitate to duly intervene.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008751/13

a la Comisión

Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE)

(16 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Mercado único digital

Todavía existen barreras a la venta y distribución digital de contenidos audiovisuales. La puesta a disposición de contenidos audiovisuales digitales a los usuarios potenciales, sin importar su ubicación geográfica ni el lugar donde se concedió la licencia a los contenidos, beneficiará a los consumidores y a los titulares de derechos como consecuencia de la competencia y de una mayor visibilidad.

Un asunto reciente del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea señala que la explotación de contenidos audiovisuales basada en la exclusividad territorial constituye una violación del Tratado.

¿Tiene lista la Comisión alguna medida concreta para garantizar la plena realización del mercado único digital?

Respuesta del Sr. Barnier en nombre de la Comisión

(9 de septiembre de 2013)

En 2011, la Comisión reconoció la importancia estratégica de los derechos de autor para el desarrollo del mercado único digital en su estrategia de propiedad intelectual (47). Un marco moderno de la UE en materia de propiedad intelectual debe fomentar las prácticas innovadoras en el mercado y facilitar la oferta transfronteriza de contenidos audiovisuales, garantizando al mismo tiempo los incentivos necesarios para la creación y la producción de contenidos creativos.

Ya se han tomado algunas medidas, tales como la adopción de la Directiva 2012/28/UE sobre las obras huérfanas y una propuesta legislativa sobre la gestión colectiva de derechos. La Comunicación sobre el contenido en el mercado único digital (48) anunció la evaluación de la normativa vigente de la UE sobre derechos de autor con vistas a decidir en 2014 si presenta propuestas de reforma legislativa. También anunció el inicio de un diálogo estructurado con las partes interesadas sobre el acceso transfronterizo y la portabilidad de los servicios, el sector audiovisual y el patrimonio cultural en el marco de «Licensing Europe» (Licencias para Europa). La Comisión ha hecho pública hace poco una revisión intermedia de este proceso (49).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008751/13

to the Commission

Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE)

(16 July 2013)

Subject: Digital single market

There are still barriers to the digital sale and distribution of audiovisual content. Making digital audiovisual content available to potential users, regardless of their geographical location and no matter where the content has been licensed, will benefit consumers and rights holders as a result of competition and broader exposure.

Recent European Court of Justice case-law indicates that the exploitation of audio‐visual content on the grounds of territorial exclusivity constitutes a breach of the Treaty.

Does the Commission have in place any concrete measures to ensure the completion of the digital single market?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(9 September 2013)

In 2011, the Commission recognissd the strategic importance of copyright for the development of the Digital Single Market in its Intellectual Property Strategy (50): A modern EU — Intellectual property framework must foster innovative market practices and facilitate the cross-border offer of audiovisual content while ensuring the necessary incentives for the creation and production of creative content.

A number of actions have already been taken, such as the adoption of Directive 2012/28/EU on orphan works and a legislative proposal on collective rights management. The communication on ‘Content in the Digital Single Market’ (51) announced the assessment of the current EU copyright legislative framework with a view to a decision in 2014 whether to table legislative reform proposals. It also announced the launch of a structured stakeholder dialogue on the cross-border access and portability of services, the audiovisual sector and cultural heritage under the umbrella of ‘Licensing Europe’. The mid-term review of this process has just recently been published by the Commission (52).

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008752/13

à Comissão (Vice-Presidente/Alta Representante)

Alda Sousa (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: VP/HR — Violações dos direitos dos palestinianos e a questão da retirada de residência em Jerusalém

Nos termos do artigo 2.° do Acordo de Associação UE-Israel, as relações entre os dois intervenientes baseiam-se no respeito mútuo dos direitos humanos e nos princípios da democracia. Porém, apesar deste acordo Israel continua a violar os direitos dos palestinianos nos territórios ocupados.

Entre estes abusos aos seus direitos incluem-se políticas visando diretamente a saída da cidade de Jerusalém da sua população palestiniana. Em 2006, a União Europeia instou o Governo israelita a «cessar qualquer tratamento discriminatório dos palestinianos em Jerusalém Oriental». No entanto, Israel prossegue a sua estratégia para a saída da cidade dos palestinianos, a qual, desde 1967, inclui a retirada de mais de 14 000 documentos de identidade de palestinianos em Jerusalém, privando-os deste modo do seu direito de viver na cidade em que nasceram.

No entanto, a UE continua a desenvolver e expandir as suas relações com Israel sem impor nenhuma condicionalidade estrita no que diz respeito aos direitos humanos e ao direito internacional.

— Tendo em conta o que precede, que medidas está a tomar a Vice-Presidente/Alta Representante para que Israel responda pelas suas violações dos direitos dos palestinianos? Em particular, de que forma está a Vice-Presidente/Alta Representante a abordar a questão da retirada de residência em Jerusalém?

Neste contexto, pode a Vice-Presidente/Alta Representante descrever ao Parlamento:

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

(13 de setembro de 2013)

A UE trabalha, desde 2002, em Jerusalém Oriental para atenuar as desigualdades e apoiar as comunidades palestinianas na cidade através de programas multissetoriais anuais que abrangem, inter alia, a educação, a saúde, o planeamento urbano, a ajuda jurídica e a emancipação económica. Em consonância com estes objetivos, a UE aumentou também progressivamente a sua assistência a Jerusalém Oriental com vista a melhorar a qualidade de vida dos palestinianos de Jerusalém. A UE apela também a um acesso equitativo da população da cidade aos recursos e ao investimento. Quanto à questão da retirada de residência em Jerusalém, a UE continua a insistir junto do Governo israelita nas suas preocupações a respeito da política de Israel em Jerusalém Oriental (incluindo os regimes de autorização de residência, as restrições à construção e a falta de serviços).

A UE introduziu uma clara condicionalidade nas relações UE-Israel, suspendendo qualquer estreitamento das relações e condicionando um eventual estreitamento aos progressos no processo de paz no Médio Oriente, bem como ao respeito do direito humanitário internacional. A posição da Alta Representante/Vice-Presidente quanto às perguntas específicas sobre os instrumentos da UE e os seus efeitos foi exposta na resposta conjunta às perguntas escritas E-007961/2013 e E-007769/13 (53).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008752/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Alda Sousa (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Violations of Palestinians' rights and the issue of residency revocation in Jerusalem

Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement explicitly states that relations between the two actors will be based on mutual adherence to human rights and the principles of democracy. In spite of this agreement, however, Israel continues to violate the rights of Palestinians throughout occupied territories.

Among these rights abuses are policies aimed directly at ridding the city of Jerusalem of its Palestinian population. In 2006, the EU called on the Israeli Government to ‘cease all discriminatory treatment of Palestinians in East Jerusalem’. Nonetheless, Israel continues with its strategy to purge the city of Palestinians which, since 1967, has included the revocation of over 14 000 IDs from Palestinians in Jerusalem, thereby stripping them of their right to live in the city in which they were born.

Nevertheless, the EU continues to develop and expand its relations with Israel without imposing strict conditionality regarding human rights and international law.

— In light of the above, what actions is the Vice-President/High Representative taking to hold Israel accountable for its violations of Palestinians’ rights? In particular, how is the Vice-President/High Representative addressing the issue of residency revocation in Jerusalem?

In this connection, could the Vice-President/High Representative, for the benefit of the Parliament, describe:

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

(13 September 2013)

Since 2002, the EU has been working in East Jerusalem to mitigate inequities and support Palestinian communities in the city through annual multi-sector programmes covering inter-alia education, health, urban planning and legal aid, and economic empowerment. In line with this stance, the EU has also progressively increased its assistance to East Jerusalem in order to improve the quality of life of Palestinian Jerusalemites. The EU also calls for an equitable provision of resources and investment to the city’s population. On the issue of residency revocation in Jerusalem, the EU continues to stress with the Israeli government its concerns about Israeli policy on East Jerusalem (including residency and permit regimes, restrictions on building and lack of services).

The EU has introduced a clear conditionality on the EU-Israel relationship, freezing any ‘upgrade’ of relations, and conditioning such an upgrade both on progress in the Middle East peace process as well as respect for international humanitarian law. The HR/VP's position with regard to the three specific questions about EU instruments and their effect was set out in the joint reply to Written Questions E-007961/2013 and E-007769/13 (54).

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008753/13

a la Comisión

Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Discapacidad y educación

Considerando que la educación es la vía de entrada a una participación plena en la sociedad y que sin ella los ciudadanos verán minados su capacidad para disfrutar de unos plenos derechos y asumir funciones importantes en la sociedad, principalmente por medio del empleo productivo;

Considerando el artículo 24 de la Convención de las Naciones Unidas sobre los Derechos de las Personas con Discapacidad;

Considerando el artículo 5 de la Estrategia Europea sobre Discapacidad 2010-2020 en que la Comisión se comprometió a respaldar una educación y formación inclusivas;

Considerando los resultados del informe «Inclusive Education For Young Disabled People in Europe: Trends, Issues and Challenges» realizado por la ANED;

— ¿Cuándo y cómo tiene pensado la Comisión poner en práctica su Comunicación titulada «Un nuevo concepto de educación»?

— ¿Cuándo publicará la Comisión la iniciativa «Apertura de la educación»? ¿Cuáles serán las principales medidas?

— ¿Incluirán dichas comunicación e iniciativa a estudiantes que, a pesar de no tener discapacidad, queden fuera de la «normalidad» educativa?

— ¿Cómo se fomentará la movilidad de las personas con discapacidad en los programas de intercambio? ¿Qué medidas se tomarán de cara a facilitar los trámites de acreditación de la discapacidad?

— ¿Se ponen en práctica medidas adecuadas como respuesta a los datos, quejas y valoraciones recogidos por la Agencia Europea para el Desarrollo de la Educación Especial (Eadsne)?

Respuesta de la Sra. Vassiliou en nombre de la Comisión

(4 de septiembre de 2013)

La Comisión ya está trabajando con los Estados miembros en la agenda que figura en su Comunicación «Un nuevo concepto de educación» (55). En julio de 2013 se puso en marcha la Alianza Europea para la Formación de Aprendices; en otoño de 2013 comenzará una consulta sobre el Espacio Europeo de las Aptitudes y Cualificaciones; asimismo, en otoño de 2013 se publicarán documentos sobre educación en materia de emprendimiento; y en 2014 debería finalizar el trabajo sobre un valor de referencia en relación con el aprendizaje de idiomas.

La Comunicación sobre la apertura de la educación, prevista para el otoño de 2013, tratará sobre cómo hacer un mejor uso de las tecnologías digitales y de los recursos educativos abiertos en el ámbito de la educación y la formación.

«Un nuevo concepto de educación» apoya el aprendizaje de las personas al margen de la enseñanza formal, al centrarse en cómo pueden validarse y reconocerse mejor las aptitudes adquiridas a través de un aprendizaje informal y no formal (56). Asimismo, la Comunicación sobre la apertura de la educación abordará el potencial de las tecnologías de la información y de las comunicaciones para mejorar el acceso de quienes aprenden de esta manera.

En el marco del Programa de Aprendizaje Permanente, los alumnos con necesidades especiales que ejerzan la movilidad pueden beneficiarse de medidas concretas, como que se cubran los gastos de estancia y de viaje de un acompañante. Las agencias nacionales del Programa de Aprendizaje Permanente velan por que toda la información y las oficinas sean accesibles para las personas con discapacidad.

La propuesta de la Comisión de un nuevo programa de la UE en materia de educación, formación y juventud, Erasmus+ (2014-2020), presta especial atención a las cuestiones de accesibilidad: se pide explícitamente a la Comisión y a los Estados miembros que faciliten la participación de las personas que tengan dificultades específicas por razones educativas, sociales, de género, físicas, psicológicas, geográficas, económicas y culturales.

Todas las actividades descritas anteriormente tienen en cuenta las orientaciones y los conocimientos especializados que proporciona la Agencia Europea para el Desarrollo de la Educación de Alumnos con Necesidades Educativas Especiales.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008753/13

to the Commission

Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Disability and education

Education is the key to fully participating in society and not having an education undermines a person’s ability to enjoy full rights and to play a valuable role in society, primarily through productive employment.

In view of Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;

In view of Article 5 of the European Disability Strategy 2010-2020, in which the Commission undertook to support inclusive education and training;

In view of the results of the report ‘Inclusive Education for Young Disabled People in Europe: Trends, Issues and Challenges’ by the Academic Network of European Disability Experts (ANED);

— When and how does the Commission intend to implement its communication ‘Rethinking Education’?

— When will the Commission publish the ‘Opening up education’ initiative? What will be the main measures?

— Will this communication and initiative include students who, despite not being disabled, are outside ‘normal’ education?

— How will the mobility of disabled people be promoted in exchange programmes? What steps will be taken to facilitate disability vetting procedures?

— Have adequate measures been put in place in response to the data, complaints and assessments collected by the European Agency for Development in Special Needs Education (EADSNE)?

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(4 September 2013)

The Commission is already working with Member States on the agenda set out in its ‘Rethinking Education’ Communication (57). The European Alliance for Apprenticeships was launched in July 2013; a consultation on the European Area of Skills and Qualifications will start in autumn 2013; policy papers on entrepreneurship education will be published in autumn 2013; work on a language learning benchmark should finish in 2014.

The ‘Opening Up Education’ Communication, scheduled for the autumn of 2013, will address how to make better use of digital technologies and open educational resources in education and training.

‘Rethinking Education’ supports the learning of people outside formal education by focusing on how skills gained in informal and non-formal learning can be better validated and recognised (58). Similarly, ‘Opening Up Education’ will address the potential of Information and Communication Technologies to increase access for such learners.

Under the EU's Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP), mobile learners with special needs may benefit from specific measures, including subsistence and travel costs of an accompanying person. LLP National Agencies make all information and offices accessible to disabled people.

The Commission's proposal for the new EU programme for education, training and youth, Erasmus+ (2014-2020), pays special attention to questions of access: the Commission and Member States are explicitly required to facilitate the participation of people with difficulties for educational, social, gender, physical, psychological, geographical, economic and cultural reasons.

All activities described above take into account the guidance and expertise provided by the European Agency for Development in Special Needs Education.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008754/13

a la Comisión

Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Desarrollo de bienes y servicios de diseño universal

La adquisición de bienes y servicios y la información pertinente y accesible acerca de ellos debería incluir soluciones comerciales adecuadas, así como bienes y servicios diseñados para ser accesibles a largo plazo.

Considerando la Resolución del Parlamento Europeo, de 25 de octubre de 2011, sobre la movilidad y la inclusión de las personas con discapacidad y la Estrategia Europea sobre Discapacidad 2010-2020;

Considerando que, sobre la base de los derechos promulgados en la Carta de Derechos Fundamentales de la Unión Europea, la Comisión cuenta con el enfoque correcto para lograr aumentar la sensibilización sobre la discapacidad, incluidos los conceptos de «diseño para todos» y «diseño universal», y destacar la importancia de los ajustes razonables;

Considerando que el artículo 4 de la Convención de las Naciones Unidas sobre los Derechos de las Personas con Discapacidad establece la obligación de «emprender o promover la investigación y el desarrollo de bienes, servicios, equipo e instalaciones de diseño universal»;

Considerando que el artículo 2 de la Convención afirma que por «diseño universal» se entenderá el diseño de productos, entornos, programas y servicios que puedan utilizar todas las personas, en la mayor medida posible, sin necesidad de adaptación ni diseño especializado;

Considerando que EDeAN es una red que se encarga de apoyar y ofrecer recursos en materia de diseño universal, siendo el centro de excelencia y las organizaciones asociadas de cada Estado miembro los encargados de realizar informes, estudios y fomentar el intercambio de conocimientos, información y buenas prácticas, ¿se tienen en cuenta estos datos en las instituciones europeas? ¿No cree la Comisión que debe apoyar a estas asociaciones con medidas legislativas y prácticas que obliguen a los fabricantes a comercializar sus productos pensando en las personas con discapacidad?

¿Se informa a los consumidores con discapacidad de sus derechos con respecto a productos y servicios que no les tengan en cuenta?

Respuesta de la Sra. Reding en nombre de la Comisión

(27 de septiembre de 2013)

La Comisión promueve el enfoque «Diseño para todos» en sus iniciativas pertinentes de diseño, fabricación y suministro de bienes y servicios en el mercado interior, de conformidad con la Estrategia Europea sobre Discapacidad 2010-2020 y con la Convención de las Naciones Unidas sobre los derechos de las personas con discapacidad.

Diversos instrumentos jurídicos de la UE (59) recogen la obligación explícita para los proveedores de bienes y servicios de tener en cuenta, de forma específica, a las personas con discapacidad.

Además, la Comisión ha emitido un mandato (60) dirigido a los organismos europeos de normalización que les requiere la incorporación del enfoque «Diseño para todos» en las iniciativas de normalización pertinentes.

En el marco de la Asociación Europea para la innovación en el ámbito del envejecimiento activo y saludable, un grupo multilateral ha asumido la tarea de desarrollar entornos vitales mejor adaptados a las personas mayores en toda la UE. Los organismos activos en la iniciativa «Diseño para todos» contribuyen a la actividad del grupo aportándole sus conocimientos y prácticas en la materia.

La legislación de la UE en materia de derechos de los pasajeros asegura que las personas con discapacidad y las personas con movilidad reducida tengan los mismos derechos a la hora de viajar que los demás pasajeros, y que no se les discrimine en razón de su discapacidad al hacer la reserva o al embarcar. Esos pasajeros tienen derecho a asistencia gratuita en los aeropuertos, puertos, estaciones de ferrocarril y de autocar y a bordo de los distintos medios de transporte.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008754/13

to the Commission

Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Development of universally designed goods and services

The purchase of goods and services and relevant and accessible information on them should include appropriate commercial solutions, as well as goods and services designed to be accessible in the long term.

The European Parliament resolution of 25 October 2011 concerns mobility and inclusion of people with disabilities and the European Disability Strategy 2010-2020.

Based on the rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, the Commission has adopted the right approach to raise awareness of disability, including the concepts of ‘design for all’ and ‘universal design’, and to highlight the importance of reasonable accommodation.

Article 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities establishes the obligation to ‘undertake or promote research and development of universally designed goods, services, equipment and facilities’.

Article 2 of the Convention defines ‘universal design’ as the design of products, environments, programmes and services to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialised design.

The European Design for All e-Accessibility Network (EDeAN) is a network that provides support and resources in the field of universal design, and this centre of excellence and the associated organisations in each of the Member States are responsible for drafting reports, conducting studies and promoting the exchange of knowledge, information and good practice. Are these data taken into account in the European institutions? Does the Commission think it should take legislative and practical measures to support these associations, requiring manufacturers to market their products with disabled people in mind?

Are disabled consumers informed of their rights with regard to products and services that do not take account of their needs?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(27 September 2013)

The Commission promotes a ‘Design for All’ approach in its relevant initiatives dealing with the designing, manufacturing and provision of good and services in the internal market, in line with the European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Several EU legal instruments (61) contain an explicit obligation for providers of goods and services to consider people with disabilities in particular.

The Commission has also issued a Mandate (62) to the European Standardisation Organisations to include the ‘Design for all’ approach in relevant standardisation initiatives.

In the frame of the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing, a multistakeholder group is working on developing living environments that are more age-friendly across the EU. Organisations active in the field of ‘Design for All’ are contributing to the groups' work by sharing their knowledge and expertise from their work on the matter.

EU passenger rights legislation ensures that disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility have the same rights to travel as other passengers and cannot be discriminated upon booking or boarding on the ground of their disability. These passengers have the right to free of charge assistance at airports, ports, railway stations and bus terminals and on-board.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008755/13

a la Comisión

Raül Romeva i Rueda (Verts/ALE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Seguimiento de las tasas judiciales en España

En la respuesta conjunta de la Sra. Reding en nombre de la Comisión a las preguntas escritas, P-011601/2012, E-011367/2012, E-011505/2012, E-011366/2012, del pasado 7 de febrero de 2013, relativa al caracter excesivo de las tasas judiciales en España se indica que:

«El carácter excesivo de una tasa debería evaluarse a la luz de todos los elementos pertinentes de la legislación por la que se establece dicha tasa, incluidas las posibles excepciones que se apliquen a las personas que puedan acogerse a asistencia jurídica. La Comisión entiende que el Tribunal Constitucional de España examinará la Ley 10/2012 (63) mencionada por Sus Señorías. La Comisión llevará a cabo un estrecho seguimiento de este asunto.»

¿Cuál ha sido el seguimiento otorgado por la Comisión a la Ley 10/2012?

¿Considera que son excesivas dichas tasas judiciales?

¿Se pronunciará públicamente al respecto?

¿Qué acciones realizará para revertir la situación y garantizar el acceso a la justicia de la ciudadanía?

Respuesta de la Sra. Reding en nombre de la Comisión

(2 de octubre de 2013)

Como se indica en las respuestas a las preguntas escritas P-011601/2012, E-011367/2012, E-011505/2012 y E-011366/2012, el acceso a la justicia es un derecho fundamental garantizado por el artículo 47 de la Carta de los Derechos Fundamentales de la Unión Europea y por el artículo 6, apartado 1, del Convenio Europeo de Derechos Humanos, y una tasa excesiva puede ir en su detrimento.

La Comisión entiende que, tras la adopción de la Ley 20/2012, a las que se referían las respuestas mencionadas de febrero, las autoridades españolas adoptaron el Real Decreto-ley 3/2013, de 22 de febrero de 2013, para rebajar el tipo utilizado a efectos del cálculo de la tasa judicial aplicable a las personas físicas, añadir nuevas excepciones a las obligación de abonar tasas judiciales y ampliar las posibilidades de solicitar asistencia jurídica. La Comisión también entiende que el Tribunal Constitucional español examinará las disposiciones modificadas sobre las tasas judiciales. La Comisión seguirá prestando gran atención a este asunto.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008755/13

to the Commission

Raül Romeva i Rueda (Verts/ALE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Follow-up on court fees in Spain

In her joint answer of 7 February 2013 to written questions P-011601/2012, E-011367/2012, E-011505/2012 and E-011366/2012 on excessive court fees in Spain, Mrs Reding stated on behalf of the Commission:

‘The excessive nature of a fee should be assessed in light of all the relevant elements of the legislation establishing such a fee, including the possible exemptions for persons eligible for legal aid. The Commission understands that the Spanish Constitutional Court will examine the Law 10/2012 (64) referred by the Honourable Members. The Commission will follow closely this matter.’

What follow-up has the Commission given to Law No 10/2012?

Does it think these court fees are excessive?

Will it make a public statement on the issue?

What action will it take to remedy the situation and to safeguard the public’s access to justice?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(2 October 2013)

As indicated in the replies to written questions P-011601/2012, E-011367/2012, E-011505/2012 and E-011366/2012, access to justice is a fundamental right guaranteed by Article 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and by Article 6(1) of the European Convention on Human Rights, which can be impaired by an excessive fee.

The Commission understands that after the adoption of Law 20/2012 to which the abovementioned replies in February referred, the Spanish authorities adopted the Royal Decree-Law 3/2013, of 22 February 2013 to lower the rate for the calculation of the court fee applicable to natural persons, to add new derogations to the obligation to pay court fees and to expand the possibilities to apply for legal aid. The Commission also understands that the Spanish Constitutional Court will examine the amended provisions on court fees.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008756/13

a la Comisión

Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE) y Gabriel Mato Adrover (PPE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Accesibilidad y transporte

Cabe considerar el número de ciudadanos que hay en la Unión Europea con discapacidad o movilidad reducida, así como el hecho de que a menudo las personas de este colectivo se ven privadas de la capacidad de conducir un vehículo propio y, por consiguiente, dependen de terceras personas o del transporte urbano para desplazarse y poder hacer su vida con normalidad.

Existen muchos reglamentos concernientes al transporte que tienen en cuenta las necesidades de los pasajeros con discapacidad (65), pero ninguno hace referencia a los servicios de taxis y metro. ¿No considera la Comisión que también habría que regular la situación de estos? De hecho, en el caso de los taxis, hay muy pocas unidades adaptadas a pesar de que, por insuficiencias de otros medios de transporte, se han convertido en la forma de desplazamiento preferida de este colectivo pese al elevado coste de sus tarifas. En el caso del metro, hay ciudades en que hay muchas estaciones sin adaptar, especialmente conforme se alejan del centro urbano.

El cumplimiento de estos reglamentos se ha delegado en autoridades nacionales de cada Estado miembro. ¿Están los usuarios con discapacidad informados de las autoridades a quien deben dirigir sus quejas en materia de transporte? ¿Recopilan estas autoridades datos regularmente y/o envían informes para indicar las principales quejas y mejoras llevadas a cabo en el sector?

Con respecto a los vehículos, los salidos de fábrica, renovados o arreglados tienen que estar adaptados por ley, pero ¿se ha fijado algún plazo para la completa adaptación de todos los vehículos?

Respuesta del Sr. Kallas en nombre de la Comisión

(4 de septiembre de 2013)

La UE financia actividades de investigación, demostración y difusión en el campo de la movilidad urbana, incluso en relación con los servicios dirigidos a personas con movilidad reducida (66).

Las normas aplicables al transporte en taxi o en metro de pasajeros con discapacidad se desarrollan principalmente a nivel nacional o regional, lo que permite tener adecuadamente en cuenta las circunstancias y preferencias locales. Esas normas deben ser acordes con la Convención de las Naciones Unidas sobre los derechos de las personas con discapacidad (67), firmada por todos los Estados miembros y ratificada prácticamente por todos ellos.

En cuanto al cumplimiento de la normativa, la Comisión ha publicado las direcciones de los organismos de aplicación en su sitio web, donde, de acuerdo con los reglamentos a que se refieren Sus Señorías, las personas con discapacidad y con movilidad reducida pueden registrar sus quejas.

El artículo 29 del Reglamento (UE) n° 181/2011 (68) y el artículo 26 del Reglamento (UE) n° 1177/2010 (69) establecen que los organismos de aplicación tienen que publicar con periodicidad informes sobre su actividad, que deben contener estadísticas sobre las reclamaciones y las medidas adoptadas para aplicar ambos Reglamentos. El artículo 27, apartado 3, del Reglamento (CE) n° 1371/2007 (70) dispone que las empresas ferroviarias deben publicar cada año el número y tipo de las reclamaciones recibidas y de las reclamaciones tramitadas, el tiempo de respuesta y las eventuales medidas de mejora adoptadas. En cuanto al transporte aéreo, el artículo 9, apartado 3, del Reglamento (CE) n° 1107/2006 (71), aunque sin referirse específicamente a la información sobre el tratamiento de las reclamaciones, establece que las entidades gestoras de los aeropuertos deben publicar sus normas de calidad.

El considerando 10 del Reglamento (UE) n° 181/2011 recomienda tomar en consideración las necesidades de las personas con discapacidad o con movilidad reducida a la hora de equipar los vehículos nuevos y nuevamente acondicionados.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008756/13

to the Commission

Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE) and Gabriel Mato Adrover (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Accessibility and transport

It is important to bear in mind the number of citizens in the European Union who have disabilities or reduced mobility, as well as the fact that members of this group are often unable to drive a private vehicle and, as a result, depend on other people or on urban transport to move about and to be able to lead their lives normally.

There are many regulations on transport that take the needs of passengers with disabilities into account (72), but none of them refer to taxi and metro services. Does the Commission not take the view that these services should be regulated as well? In fact, in the case of taxis, there are very few adapted vehicles, even though, given the inadequacies of other means of transport, taxis have become the preferred way to travel of persons with disabilities or reduced mobility, in spite of the high cost of taxi fares. In the case of the metro, in some cities, there are many stations that are not adapted, especially as one moves away from the urban centre.

Enforcement of these regulations has been delegated to national authorities in each Member State. Are users with disabilities informed about the authorities to whom they should direct any complaints regarding transport? Do these authorities regularly gather data and/or send reports to indicate the main complaints and improvements that have been made in this area?

With regard to vehicles, brand new, reconditioned or serviced vehicles are required by law to be adapted, but has a deadline been set for the full adaptation of all vehicles?

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(4 September 2013)

The EU supports research, demonstration and dissemination activities in the field of urban mobility, including services for people with reduced mobility (73).

The rules for transport by taxi or metro of passengers with disabilities are mainly made at national or regional level, and this allows to take local circumstances and preferences well into account. Such rules need to be in line with the United Nations Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (74), signed by all Member States and ratified by almost all.

As regards enforcement, the Commission has published addresses of national enforcement bodies on its website where, according to the regulations referred to by the Honourable Members, disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility can register complaints.

Article 29 of Regulation (EU) No 181/2011 (75) and Article 26 of Regulation (EU) No 1177/2010 (76) stipulate that national enforcement bodies must publish regularly reports on their activities, including statistics of complaints and actions to implement the regulations. Article 27(3) of Regulation (EC) No 1371/2007 (77) provides that railway undertakings shall report annually number and categories of received and processed complaints, response time and improvement actions undertaken. In air transport, according to Article 9(3) of Regulation (EC) 1107/2006 (78), although no specific reference is made to complaint handling data, the airport managing body must publish its quality standards.

Recital 10 of Regulation (EU) No 181/2011 recommends to take needs of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility into account when deciding on equipment of new and newly refurbished vehicles.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-008757/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Spyros Danellis (S&D)

(17 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Μεταρρύθμιση στην τεχνική εκπαίδευση στην Ελλάδα

Η ελληνική κυβέρνηση, στο πλαίσιο των δεσμεύσεών της έναντι της τρόικα για 4 000 απολύσεις και κινητικότητα 12 000 υπαλλήλων του στενού και ευρύτερου δημόσιου τομέα μέσα στο 2013, αποφάσισε την κατάργηση 52 ειδικοτήτων σε Επαγγελματικά Λύκεια και Σχολές.

Οι υπό κατάργηση ειδικότητες αφορούν κατά κύριο λόγο τους τομείς Υγείας-Πρόνοιας και εφαρμοσμένων τεχνών. Πρόκειται για ειδικότητες που εμφανίζουν μεγάλη ζήτηση και για τις οποίες έχουν ήδη πραγματοποιηθεί εγγραφές σημαντικού αριθμού μαθητών.

Λαμβάνοντας υπόψη ότι η ΕΕ (πρώτον) προσπαθεί να ανακάμψει από μία σοβαρή οικονομική και χρηματοπιστωτική κρίση που πλήττει ιδιαίτερα την απασχόληση των νέων και (δεύτερον) χρειάζεται ένα υψηλών προσόντων και δεξιοτήτων εργατικό δυναμικό προκειμένου να μπορέσει να θέσει σε εφαρμογή τον προγραμματικό σχεδιασμό της για ανάπτυξη της ευρωπαϊκής οικονομίας, ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση της κ. Βασιλείου εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(30 Αυγούστου 2013)

Η Επιτροπή είναι ενήμερη για την πρόσφατη απόφαση της ελληνικής κυβέρνησης σχετικά με την αναδιάρθρωση της παροχής επαγγελματικής κατάρτισης σε δευτεροβάθμιο επίπεδο.

Ως προς το θέμα αυτό η Επιτροπή σημειώνει ότι σύμφωνα με τις δηλώσεις της ελληνικής κυβέρνησης η κατάργηση ορισμένων προγραμμάτων στην υγειονομική περίθαλψη και σε άλλους τομείς που προσφέρουν τα επαγγελματικά λύκεια (ΕΠΑΛ) είναι συμβατή με την παροχή προγραμμάτων στα Ινστιτούτα Επαγγελματικής Κατάρτισης (ΙΕΚ) σε μεταδευτεροβάθμιο επίπεδο. Έτσι, θα εξασφαλιστεί ότι οι έλληνες εκπαιδευόμενοι θα έχουν την ευκαιρία να λάβουν κατάρτιση στους εν λόγω τομείς, για τους οποίους όντως παρέχεται κατάρτιση σε άλλα κράτη μέλη.

Η Επιτροπή έχει επίγνωση του γεγονότος ότι μια σειρά ΙΕΚ αποτελούν ιδιωτικούς οργανισμούς, και σημειώνει επίσης το σχέδιο της ελληνικής κυβέρνησης να ενισχύσει τις ικανότητες των δημόσιων ΙΕΚ και να στηρίξει την προσβασιμότητα των κύκλων μαθημάτων τους.

Η ενίσχυση της κινητικότητας είναι συμβατή με την έμφαση που δίνεται στις επαγγελματικές δεξιότητες και ικανότητες στη διακήρυξη της Μπριζ, καθώς οι δράσεις για την κινητικότητα μπορούν να συμβάλουν σημαντικά στην ανάπτυξή τους καθώς και στην απασχολησιμότητα των συμμετεχόντων στα εν λόγω μέτρα.

Η Επιτροπή θα παρακολουθεί τον αντίκτυπο των ελληνικών μεταρρυθμίσεων εντός των συμφωνηθέντων πλαισίων υποβολής στοιχείων όσον αφορά την εφαρμογή της διακήρυξης της Μπριζ και του ευρωπαϊκού εξαμήνου.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008757/13

to the Commission

Spyros Danellis (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Technical education reform in Greece

As part of its undertakings to the Troika to achieve 4 000 redundancies and mobility for 12 000 employees of the narrow and broader public sector in 2013, the Greek Government has decided to abolish 52 specialisms in vocational lyceums and schools.

The main specialisms being abolished are in the health and welfare and applied arts sectors. There is a great demand for these specialisms, for which a large number of students have already enrolled.

In view of the fact that (firstly) the EU is trying to recover from a very serious economic and financial crisis which has had a particularly vicious impact on youth employment and (secondly) a highly qualified and skilled workforce is needed if its plan to foster growth in the European economy is to succeed, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(30 August 2013)

The Commission is aware of the recent decision of the Greek Government to restructure the provision of vocational training at secondary level.

In that respect, the Commission notes that the Greek Government has stated that the abolition of a number of programmes in healthcare and other sectors offered by vocational high schools (EPAL) can be matched by the provision of programmes at post-secondary institutes of vocational training (IEK), thus ensuring that Greek trainees will have the opportunity to train in those sectors, which are indeed included in the provision in other Member States.

The Commission is aware that a number of IEK are private institutions, and it also takes note of the Greek Government's plan to widen the capacity of public IEKs and support the accessibility of their courses.

Reinforcing mobility is compatible with the emphasis given to vocational skills and competences in the Bruges communiqué, as mobility actions can significantly contribute to their development as well as to the employability of the participants in those actions.

The Commission will monitor the impact of the Greek reforms within the agreed reporting frameworks related to the implementation of the Bruges communiqué and the European Semester.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008758/13

alla Commissione (Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante)

Gianni Pittella (S&D)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: VP/HR — Rapporti UE — Kazakistan

L'espulsione verso il Kazakistan, in seguito revocata da parte delle autorità italiane, della cittadina kazaka Shalabayeva Ablyazov, rifugiata politica nel Regno Unito, pone a tutte le istituzioni europee la dirimente questione del rispetto dei diritti umani fondamentali all'interno dell'Unione europea e del rapporto tra l'UE, i suoi Stati membri e regimi autoritari quali il Kazakistan.

La repressione sistematica degli oppositori politici, la perpetrazione di torture nei loro confronti, il rifiuto di tenere elezioni libere, segrete e competitive e l'inesistenza di quella separazione tra poteri tipica di uno Stato di diritto, sono infatti — a detta di numerosi osservatori internazionali — indicativi della natura autoritaria del governo kazako.

Alla luce della rinnovata attività repressiva perseguita dalle autorità kazake nei confronti dei dissidenti politici nel territorio europeo, quali misure intende adottare il Vicepresidente/Alto Rappresentante per garantire la tutela dei diritti umani fondamentali all'interno dell'Unione europea qual è sancita, tra gli altri, dagli articoli 2 e 6 del trattato sull' Unione europea?

Intende prendere in considerazione l'adozione di misure ritorsive quali la richiesta di sospendere l'applicazione dell'accordo di cooperazione e partnership fra Unione Europa e Kazakistan nel caso in cui le autorità kazake non dovessero fornire le garanzie richieste?

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

(9 settembre 2013)

L’Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente (AR/VP) e la delegazione dell’UE ad Astana seguono con attenzione il caso di Alma Shalabayeva, coniuge di Mukhtar Ablyazov, fin dal suo rimpatrio forzato ad Almaty. Insieme operano per garantire la piena tutela dei diritti giuridici della Shabalayeva durante l’inchiesta in corso. A detta delle autorità kazake, Alma Shalabayeva sarà trattata secondo le «normali prassi giuridiche».

La delegazione dell’UE e il servizio europeo per l’azione esterna (SEAE) sono in stretto contatto con le ONG che prestano sostegno e consulenza legale alla Shalabayeva, tra cui l’Ufficio internazionale per i diritti umani e lo stato di diritto del Kazakistan.

L’AR/VP ha contribuito a portare il caso all’attenzione delle organizzazioni internazionali pertinenti, quali l’UNHCR e l’OSCE. La delegazione dell’UE intrattiene a sua volta uno scambio frequente e regolare d’informazioni con le ambasciate degli Stati membri in Kazakistan. Il caso della Shalabayeva è stato discusso anche durante il consiglio di cooperazione UE-Kazakistan tenutosi a Bruxelles lo scorso 25 luglio.

L’AR/VP e il SEAE continueranno a trattare con le competenti autorità kazake per tutelare i diritti individuali, nella fattispecie di Alma Shalabayeva, in particolare il suo diritto all’assistenza di un avvocato.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008758/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Gianni Pittella (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU Relations — Kazakhstan

The expulsion to Kazakhstan, subsequently revoked by the Italian authorities, of the Kazakh citizen, Shalabayeva Ablyazov, a political refugee in the United Kingdom, should incite all the European institutions to address the key question of the respect for fundamental human rights within the European Union and the relationship between the EU, its Member States and authoritarian regimes such as Kazakhstan.

The systematic repression of political opponents, the use of torture against them, the refusal to hold free, secret and competitive elections and the lack of separation of powers, characteristic of a State governed by the rule of law, are — according to many international observers — indicative of the authoritarian nature of the Kazakh Government.

Considering the renewed repression carried out by the Kazakh authorities against political dissidents in the European Union, what measures does the Vice-President/High Representative intend to adopt to ensure the safeguarding of fundamental human rights within the European Union, as enshrined in Articles 2 and 6 of the Treaty on European Union, and elsewhere?

Does she intend to take into consideration the adoption of punitive measures such as a request to suspend the application of the partnership and cooperation agreement between the European Union and Kazakhstan should the Kazakh authorities fail to provide the guarantees requested?

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

(9 September 2013)

The HR/VP and the EU Delegation in Astana follow closely the developments of the case of Mrs Alma Shalabayeva, the spouse of Mr Mukhtar Ablyazov, since her forced return to Almaty. They work to ensure that her legal rights are fully observed in the course of the ongoing investigation. As stated by the Kazakhstani authorities, Mrs Shalabayeva is treated in accordance with the ‘normal legal practices’.

The EU Delegation and the European External Action Service (EEAS) maintain close contact with NGOs that provide support and legal advice to Mrs Shalabayeva, including the Kazakh International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law.

The HR/VP has helped to bring the issue to the attention of relevant international organisations such as the UNHCR and the OSCE. Moreover, the EU Delegation regularly and frequently exchanges information with EU Member State Embassies based in Kazakhstan. Mrs Shalabayeva's case was also raised during the EU — Kazakhstan Cooperation Council held in Brussels on 25 July.

The HR/VP and the EEAS will continue to engage with the relevant Kazakhstani authorities to safeguard the individual rights, including the rights of Mrs Shalabayeva, in particular her right to access legal counsel and assistance.

(Wersja polska)

Pytanie wymagające odpowiedzi pisemnej E-008759/13

do Komisji

Marek Henryk Migalski (ECR)

(17 lipca 2013 r.)

Przedmiot: Deportacja żony i córki kazachskiego dysydenta z Włoch

W trakcie operacji specjalnej, przeprowadzonej pod koniec maja, włoska policja zatrzymała, a następnie deportowała do Kazachstanu, żonę i 6-letnią córkę kazachskiego opozycjonisty, Mukhtara Ablyazova. Bezpośrednio po deportacji z Rzymu do Ałma Aty, Ałma Szałabajewa została osadzona w areszcie domowym. Grozi jej teraz więzienie, ponieważ oskarżono ją o skorumpowanie dwóch urzędników.

Okazuje się, że o decyzji o deportacji nie został poinformowany ani premier Włoch, ani też ministerstwa spraw zagranicznych i sprawiedliwości. Jak informują organizacje praw człowieka, deportację przeprowadzono rażąco łamiąc międzynarodowe normy, m.in. zapisy Konwencji ONZ i Kodeksu Imigracyjnego Włoch, zgodnie z którymi państwo nie powinno wydawać żadnej osoby innemu państwu, jeśli istnieją poważne podstawy, aby przypuszczać, że osoba ta jest zagrożona stosowaniem tortur lub prześladowaniem na tle rasowym, językowym, narodowościowym, religijnym, politycznym, z powodu sytuacji osobistej lub społecznej. Warto również podkreślić, że do zatrzymanej nie dopuszczono adwokatów ani tłumacza, tym samym pozbawiając ją prawa do zakwestionowania deportacji i ponownego rozpatrzenia sprawy. Sama zaś procedura deportacji odbyła się w bezprecedensowo krótkim czasie.

W związku z tym, zwracam się z zapytaniem, czy Komisja zamierza podjąć interwencję w sprawie nielegalnej deportacji żony i córki kazachskiego dysydenta z Włoch i wyrazić zdecydowany sprzeciw wobec lekkomyślnych, niezgodnych z prawem decyzji krajów UE narażających na niebezpieczeństwo opozycjonistów i ich rodziny?

Odpowiedź udzielona przez komisarz Cecilię Malmström w imieniu Komisji

(26 sierpnia 2013 r.)

Kwestia poruszona przez Szanownego Pana Posła budzi wątpliwości co do zgodności działań podjętych przez włoskie władze z dorobkiem prawnym UE dotyczącym polityki powrotów i azylu.

Po opublikowaniu dnia 16 lipca 2013 r. wyników wewnętrznego dochodzenia przeprowadzonego przez komendanta głównego włoskiej policji oraz oczekując na wyniki trwającego dochodzenia prowadzonego przez prokuratora Rzymu, Komisja zwróciła się do władz włoskich w celu ustalenia, jak we Włoszech realizowana jest dyrektywa w sprawie powrotów i jak realizowano jej przepisy w przypadku opisanej sprawy Ałmy Szałbajewy i jej córki. Komisja wystąpiła także o informacje na temat dostępu do procedur azylowych i przestrzegania zasady non-refoulement. Komisja wnikliwie przeanalizuje odpowiedź włoskich władz i będzie z uwagą śledzić dalszy rozwój sytuacji.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008759/13

to the Commission

Marek Henryk Migalski (ECR)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Deportation of the wife and daughter of a Kazakh dissident from Italy

During a special operation carried out in late May, the Italian police detained and then deported to Kazakhstan the wife and six‐year‐old daughter of Mukhtar Ablyazov, a Kazakh opposition activist. Alma Shalabayeva was placed under house arrest immediately after her deportation from Rome to Almaty. She is now facing a possible prison sentence for allegedly corrupting two officials.

Apparently neither the Italian Prime Minister nor the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Justice were informed of the deportation decision. According to human rights organisations, the deportations were a blatant violation of international standards such as the provisions of the UN Convention and Italy’s Immigration Code, according to which an individual may not be handed over to another state if there are serious grounds to believe that he or she would be at risk of torture or persecution on grounds of race, language, nationality, religion or political opinions or due to his or her personal or social situation. It is also worth noting that the detainee was denied access to both lawyers and an interpreter, which deprived her of the right to appeal against the deportation and have the case re-examined. The actual deportation was carried out in an unprecedentedly short space of time.

I should therefore like to ask whether the Commission intends to intervene in respect of the illegal deportation from Italy of a Kazakh dissident’s wife and daughter, and to issue a clear condemnation of reckless and unlawful decisions by EU Member States which place opposition activists and their families at risk?

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(26 August 2013)

The issues set out by the Honourable Member raise questions as regards the compatibility of the actions taken by the Italian authorities with the EU's return and asylum acquis.

Following the publication on 16 July 2013 of the results of internal investigations conducted by the head of the Italian police and pending the results of ongoing investigations by the prosecutor of Rome, the Commission contacted the Italian authorities in order to better understand how the return procedure set out in the Return Directive is usually conducted in Italy and how was implemented in the present case of Alma Shalabayeva and her daughter. The Commission also requested information regarding access to the asylum procedure and the respect of the principle of non-refoulement. The Commission will examine carefully the reply from the Italian authorities and closely monitor any further developments.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008762/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL) e Inês Cristina Zuber (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Dia Internacional das Cooperativas — Medidas de apoio e fortalecimento das cooperativas

Assinalou-se este mês, no passado dia 6, o Dia Internacional das Cooperativas. As cooperativas, nas suas diversas áreas de intervenção, têm reconhecidamente um papel fundamental na sociedade, que deve ser reconhecido, estimulado e apoiado. Numa mensagem divulgada no dia 6 de julho, o Secretário-Geral das Nações Unidas exortou à adoção de políticas de apoio e de fortalecimento das cooperativas, de modo a que estas possam contribuir plenamente para o desenvolvimento inclusivo e sustentável.

Perguntamos à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Antonio Tajani em nome da Comissão

(3 de setembro de 2013)

A Comissão partilha a posição do Senhor Deputado de que são necessárias ações a nível europeu para continuar a melhorar a competitividade das cooperativas, sobretudo no atual contexto económico. O objetivo da Comissão neste domínio é de alcançar uma situação de concorrência equitativa, para que as cooperativas possam competir em condições iguais às das empresas que se revestem de outras formas jurídicas.

As cooperativas são empresas; como tal, podem beneficiar de todas as políticas e programas financeiros do próximo quadro financeiro plurianual. A Comissão recomendou aos Estados‐Membros que apoiassem especificamente o empreendedorismo social através dos programas dos fundos estruturais da UE. No futuro período de programação 2014-2020, o Fundo Social Europeu irá dedicar uma prioridade de investimento à «Promoção da economia social e das empresas sociais». Além disso, o novo programa da UE «Emprego e Inovação Social» (EaSI) (parte do quadro financeiro plurianual para 2014-2020) integra e alarga o âmbito de aplicação de três programas existentes [Progress (Programa para o Emprego e Solidariedade Social), EURES (Serviços Europeus de Emprego) e o Instrumento de Microfinanciamento Europeu Progress] e inclui explicitamente os atores da economia social.

O Conselho Europeu, de 27-28 de junho de 2013 convidou o BEI e a Comissão a servir de alavanca aos investimentos do setor privado e dos mercados de capitais, a fim de reforçar o setor das PME. Tal evolução deverá resultar em recursos adicionais para as PME, incluindo as cooperativas elegíveis para produtos do BEI e do Fundo Europeu de Investimento destinados às PME. No entanto, o BEI não prevê a criação de um programa específico para o setor cooperativo.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008762/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL) and Inês Cristina Zuber (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: International Day of Cooperatives — measures to support and strengthen cooperatives

The International Day of Cooperatives took place on 6 July 2013. Cooperatives undoubtedly play a fundamental role in society in their various fields of action which should be recognised, encouraged and supported. In a message released on 6 July, the UN Secretary-General called for the adoption of policies to support and strengthen cooperatives, so as to enable them to fully contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.

‘the “cooperative sector” is eligible for EIB SME loans, provided that those cooperative organisations or associations comply with the SME definition’. Given the numerous difficulties the cooperative sector has had in accessing credit lines from the EIB, does it not believe that it should propose a specific framework to enable cooperatives to access EIB funding, thereby changing the current situation?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The Commission shares the Honourable Member's view that actions are needed at European level to keep improving the competitiveness of cooperatives, particularly in the current economic context. The Commission's aim in this area is a level playing field so that cooperatives can compete on equal terms with enterprises using other legal forms.

Cooperatives are enterprises; as such, they can benefit from all financial programmes and policies of the next Multiannual Financial Framework. The Commission has recommended to the Member States to specifically support social business via the EU's structural funding programmes. In the future programming period of 2014-2020, the European Social Fund will dedicate an investment priority to ‘promoting the social economy and social enterprises’. Furthermore the new EU programme ‘Employment and Social Innovation’ (EaSI) (part of the 2014-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework), integrates and extends the coverage of three existing programmes [PROGRESS (Programme for Employment and Social Solidarity), EURES (European Employment Services) and the European Progress Microfinance Facility] and explicitly includes social economy actors.

The European Council of 27-28 June 2013 called on the EIB and the Commission to leverage private sector and capital markets investments to strengthen the SME sector. The developments should result in additional resources for SMEs including for those cooperatives eligible for the SME products of the EIB and of the European Investment Fund. However, the EIB does not plan to set-up a specific programme for the cooperative sector.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008763/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Definição de «Transporte Marítimo de Curta Distância» (COM(2013)0296)

A alínea 15, do artigo 2.°, do Capítulo 1, «Transporte Marítimo de Curta Distância » , da Proposta de Regulamento relativa ao quadro normativo para o acesso ao mercado dos serviços portuários (COM(2013)0296), vem estabelecer uma nova definição de transporte marítimo de curta distância.

Sendo que atualmente o transporte marítimo de curta distância está associado ao transporte de mercadorias em navios de menores dimensões (Ro-Ro ou feeders), com esta nova definição passa a considerar-se transporte marítimo de curta distância como «o tráfego marítimo de mercadorias e passageiros entre portos situados na Europa geográfica ou entre esses portos e portos situados em países não europeus com faixa costeira nos mares confinados que banham a Europa ». Ou seja, qualquer navio de 14 000 TEUs, um navio petroleiro de 200 000 TB ou um LNG, poderão passar a ser considerados transporte marítimo de curta distância.

De acordo com associações do setor, o aumento da flexibilização em termos de certificados de isenção de pilotagem, que esta alteração implica, colocará riscos consideráveis e inadmissíveis. Por outro lado, o impacto financeiro motivado pelos descontos que estão atualmente previstos nas tarifas de pilotagem para o transporte marítimo de curta distância não poderá ser descurado.

Em face do exposto, solicito à Comissão que me informe sobre o seguinte:

Resposta dada por Siim Kallas em nome da Comissão

(3 de setembro de 2013)

A proposta procura antes clarificar as regras relativas ao acesso ao mercado dos serviços portuários, incluindo os serviços de pilotagem. Ela permitirá, nomeadamente, a imposição de requisitos mínimos em matéria de segurança e a imposição de obrigações de serviço público, como a disponibilidade e a continuidade do serviço para todos os utilizadores. Permitirá igualmente, em condições bem justificadas e transparentes, a restrição do número de operadores e o exercício da atividade por operadores internos com direitos exclusivos. Nos casos em que o acesso ao mercado seja limitado, são igualmente propostas disposições para que as taxas de serviço portuário sejam estabelecidas de forma transparente e não discriminatória, após consulta dos utilizadores.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008763/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Definition of ‘short sea shipping’ (COM(2013) 0296)

Chapter 1, Article 2(15) of the proposal for a regulation establishing a framework on market access to port services and financial transparency of ports (COM(2013) 0296) establishes a new definition of short sea shipping.

Short sea shipping is currently associated with the movement of cargo in smaller vessels (Ro-Ros or feeders). Under this new definition, short sea shipping will mean ‘the movement of cargo and passengers by sea between ports situated in geographical Europe or between those ports and ports situated in non-European countries having a coastline on the enclosed seas bordering Europe’. In other words, any 14 000 TEU vessel, 200 000 tonne oil tanker or LNG may now be used for short sea shipping.

According to sector associations, the increased flexibility in terms of pilotage exemption certificates brought about by this amendment carries considerable and inadmissible risks. Moreover, the financial impact of current discounts on short sea shipping pilotage fees must be taken into account.

‘short sea shipping’?

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The proposal seeks intead to clarify the rules on the access to the market of port services, including pilotage services. It will allow, among others, to impose minimum requirements related to safety and to impose public service obligations such as the availability and continuity of the service for all users. It will also allow, under well justified and transparent conditions, to restrict the number of operators and to rely on in-house operators with exclusive rights. Where the market access is restricted, provisions are also proposed so that port service charges are set in a transparent and non-discriminatory way after consultation of users.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008764/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Proposta da Comissão Europeia relativa ao acesso ao mercado dos serviços portuários

A Apibarra — Associação dos Pilotos de Barra e Portos, de Portugal, alertou recentemente para alguns aspetos relativos à proposta de regulamento «que estabelece um quadro normativo para o acesso ao mercado dos serviços portuários e a transparência financeira dos portos» (COM(2013)0296).

Na referida proposta a Comissão Europeia refere que «todas as partes interessadas realçaram a necessidade de assegurar condições de concorrência estáveis e equitativas na União Europeia, tanto entre portos como dentro de cada porto». Ora, a EMPA — European Maritime Pilot's Association, da qual a Apibarra é associada, consultada que foi neste processo e referenciada na proposta de regulamento, é claramente contra a competição nos serviços de pilotagem num mesmo porto, ao contrário do que a redação da proposta parece fazer querer (85). Estas entidades têm, de forma persistente, vindo a afirmar que a pilotagem não deve ser considerada um serviço comercial.

Por outro lado, a Apibarra recorda que o comportamento dos portos portugueses tem sido exemplar. Nos últimos anos (com exceção de 2009) os portos portugueses evoluíram sempre mais do que o PIB nacional e, mais recentemente, claramente em contraciclo. Assim sendo, não são adequadas aos portos portugueses as menções negativas constantes da proposta — visando justificá-la — relativas a vários portos europeus. Assim como não é adequada à realidade portuguesa a afirmação de que «parte significativa dos utentes dos serviços portuários, companhias de navegação e empresas de exportação-importação considera que os serviços portuários de muitos portos da União não são satisfatórios em termos de preço, qualidade e encargos administrativos».

Em face do exposto, solicito à Comissão que me informe sobre o seguinte:

Resposta dada por Siim Kallas em nome da Comissão

(3 de setembro de 2013)

A Comissão mantém contactos regulares com a European Maritime Pilots’ Association (EMPA) e está a par das posições desta associação no referente à concorrência no serviço de pilotagem. As posições da EMPA são tidas em conta e não são ignoradas na proposta a que o Senhor Deputado se refere.

De facto, a proposta da Comissão é neutra quanto à escolha dos Estados-Membros e não impõe nem defende a concorrência intraportuária nos serviços de pilotagem. O projeto de regulamento prevê que os Estados-Membros definam o estatuto de serviço público dos serviços de pilotagem e apliquem a esses serviços os princípios gerais do TFUE de transparência, não discriminação e proporcionalidade.

Aquando da preparação da proposta em questão, a Comissão realizou uma avaliação de impacto exaustiva, que tem em conta as diferentes situações nos portos da UE (86), incluindo, no caso específico de Portugal, o programa de ajustamento económico para este Estado-Membro (87), que prevê reformas estruturais importantes no setor portuário do país.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008764/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Commission proposal on market access to port services

APIBARRA (Portuguese Inshore and Port Pilots’ Association) recently warned against some aspects of the proposal for a regulation ‘establishing a framework on market access to port services and financial transparency of ports’ (COM(2013)0296).

In this proposal, the Commission states that ‘All stakeholders stressed the need for a stable and level playing field both for inter-port (competition between ports) and intra-port (competition between providers of the same port service within a port) competition in the EU’. However, the EMPA (European Maritime Pilots’ Association), of which APIBARRA is a member, which was consulted during this process and referenced in the proposal for a regulation, is clearly against intra-port competition in pilotage, despite what the proposal seems to advocate (88). These bodies have persistently maintained that pilotage should not be considered a commercial service.

Moreover, APIBARRA points out that the performance of Portuguese ports has been exemplary. Over the last few years (except 2009), Portuguese ports have grown faster than national GDP and, more recently, have clearly bucked the national economic trend. As such, the negative comments on EU ports made throughout the proposal, in an attempt to justify it, do not apply to Portuguese ports, nor does the claim that ‘A significant part of the users of port services, shipping companies and export-import industries consider that port services in many EU ports are not satisfactory in terms of price, quality and administrative burden’.

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The Commission maintains regular contacts with the European Maritime Pilots’ Association (EMPA) and is aware of its views regarding competition in pilotage. EMPA's views have been taken into account and are not overlooked in the proposal which the Hounorable Member refers to.

In fact, the Commission's proposal is neutral in respect of the choice of Member States and does neither impose nor advocate intra-port competition in pilotage. The draft regulation foresees that Member States define the public service status of pilotage services and apply to those services the general TFEU principles of transparency, non-discrimination and proportionality.

For the preparation of the proposal, the Commission has conducted a comprehensive impact assessment taking account of the different situations in EU ports (89) including, in the particular case of Portugal, of the Economic Adjustment Programme for this Member State (90), which foresees important structural reforms for the Portuguese port sector.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008765/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Apoio a projeto de proteção de minas de água e infraestruturas associadas

Uma associação portuguesa pretende desenvolver um projeto que visa promover a proteção das minas de água em Rio de Vide (Miranda do Corvo), uma aldeia do centro de Portugal, para fazer face ao problema da escassez de água em determinadas épocas do ano, nomeadamente para fins agrícolas, mas não só. O objetivo é conseguir um mais eficiente aproveitamento das águas que se perdem no inverno, para serem aproveitadas no verão para a agricultura e o consumo da população. O projeto envolveria, entre outras ações, a construção de uma represa para armazenamento da água das minas para a atividade agrícola e a recuperação de infraestruturas (fontes e chafarizes) onde as pessoas ainda vão buscar a água para beber, mas que cada vez é mais escassa.

Solicito à Comissão que me informe sobre que programas e medidas poderão apoiar um projeto com estas características e sobre quais as condições de financiamento associadas.

Resposta dada por Dacian Cioloș em nome da Comissão

(5 de setembro de 2013)

A Comissão informa que, no âmbito da política de desenvolvimento rural, o artigo 30.° do Regulamento (CE) n.° 1698/2005 (91) estabelece uma medida destinada a apoiar as infraestruturas relacionadas com a evolução e a adaptação da agricultura e da silvicultura, incluindo as operações relacionadas com a gestão dos recursos hídricos. O programa de desenvolvimento rural do Continente (Proder) para o período de 2007-2013 oferece atualmente esta possibilidade, através de medidas específicas relacionadas com o desenvolvimento e a modernização dos sistemas de irrigação.

Ao abrigo do Proder, podem ser concedidas ajudas aos agricultores que preencham os critérios de elegibilidade e cujos pedidos sejam selecionados pela autoridade de gestão após os procedimentos de seleção em vigor.

No âmbito da gestão dos Programas de Desenvolvimento Rural, os Estados-Membros são responsáveis pela seleção e adjudicação dos projectos. Para mais informações, contacte a autoridade de gestão do Proder no seguinte endereço:

Rua Padre António Vieira, 1 — 8.° andar

1099-073 Lisboa

Telefone: 00 351 21 381 9318/19/20

E-mail: gabrielaventura@gpp.pt

Correio eletrónico geral: st.proder@gpp.pt

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008765/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Support for a project designed to protect water reserves and related infrastructure

A Portuguese association intends to develop a project that aims to protect water reserves in Rio de Vide (Miranda do Corvo), a village in central Portugal, with a view to tackling seasonal shortages of water used primarily, but not exclusively, for farming. Its objective is to make more efficient use of the water wasted in winter and use it for farming and drinking water in summer. The project would involve, among other things, constructing a dam to store water for farming and restoring infrastructure (springs and fountains) from which people still fetch drinking water, which is becoming increasingly scarce.

Which programmes and measures could support a project of this nature and what are the related financing conditions?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

The Commission informs that in the framework of the rural development policy, Article 30 of Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005 (92) provides for a measure aiming to support infrastructures related to the development and adaptation of agriculture and forestry, including operations on water management. The Rural Development Programme of Mainland Portugal (Proder) for the period 2007-2013 currently offers this possibility, through specific measures related to development and modernisation of irrigation systems.

Aid can be granted under Proder to farmers who fulfil the eligibility criteria and whose applications are selected by the managing authority following the selection procedures in force.

In the framework of the management of Rural Development programmes, Member States are responsible for the selection and contracting of projects. Further information should be requested to the Proder Managing Authority at the following address:

Rua Padre António Vieira, 1 — 8o andar

1099-073 LISBOA

Tel.: 00 351 21 381 9318/19/20

Email: gabrielaventura@gpp.pt

Email geral: st.proder@gpp.pt

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008766/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Degradação da prestação de cuidados de saúde em Portugal (II)

Em resposta à pergunta E-005146/2013, sobre a degradação da prestação de cuidados de saúde em Portugal, a Comissão Europeia afirma o seguinte: «As despesas de saúde pública em Portugal, em percentagem do Produto Interno Bruto (PIB), permaneceram estáveis durante o Programa de Ajustamento Económico, apesar de a crise ter tido impacto no PIB do país. Além disso, nos últimos anos, as estatísticas disponíveis sobre o sistema de saúde português mostram uma diminuição significativa na parte da população que indicou cuidados médicos por satisfazer devido a razões económicas (que incluem o preço, a distância e as listas de espera).» A Comissão acrescenta que «não está em condições de avaliar se se registou uma deterioração dos serviços de saúde prestados em Portugal».

Ora, segundo o Instituto Nacional de Estatística (INE), em 2011 e 2012, a despesa corrente em saúde diminuiu a um ritmo muito superior ao do PIB. Por outro lado, em 2011 e 2012 aumentou a proporção da despesa corrente em saúde financiada pelas famílias, representando 28,9 % e 31,7 %, respetivamente (27,4 % em 2010). Em simultâneo, observou-se um decréscimo do financiamento suportado pelo Serviço Nacional de Saúde correspondendo, em 2012, a 54,5 % da despesa corrente (menos 1,1 p.p. face a 2011 e menos 2,8 p.p. face a 2010). Isto quer dizer que foram apenas as famílias portuguesas as únicas a gastar mais em saúde, num quadro em que, entre 2011 e 2012, o peso dos salários na economia portuguesa registou a maior queda desde 1984 e o desemprego registou um brutal agravamento.

Assim, pergunto à Comissão:

Resposta dada por Tonio Mr Borg em nome da Comissão

(3 de setembro de 2013)

Os dados do Eurostat disponíveis mais recentemente (93) revelam que a despesa pública com a saúde em Portugal aumentou ligeiramente, de 6,7 % do PIB em 2010 para 6,8 % em 2011, com um aumento orçamental nominal mesmo quando o PIB e o total dos orçamentos públicos diminuíram.

Os dados do Eurostat sobre o acesso aos cuidados de saúde, medido com base nas necessidades por satisfazer comunicadas, revelam uma diminuição das «necessidades por satisfazer associadas a razões económicas (tais como o preço, a distância e as listas de espera)», em Portugal, entre 2010 e 2011, contrariamente à tendência geral na UE.

A Comissão não está em condições de avaliar se houve uma deterioração da qualidade dos serviços de cuidados de saúde em Portugal, na sequência da introdução do Programa de Ajustamento Económico, em maio de 2011, com base nos dados disponíveis.

As reformas do sistema de saúde em Portugal no quadro do Programa de Assistência Económica têm por objetivo melhorar a eficiência e eficácia. As poupanças dizem sobretudo respeito ao domínio dos produtos farmacêuticos e aos custos de exploração dos hospitais. O objetivo consiste em manter o acesso aos cuidados de saúde e a sua qualidade, e aumentar a boa gestão financeira. Medidas adicionais, tais como as relacionadas com o apoio a melhores práticas de prescrição, são suscetíveis de gerar poupanças e melhorar os resultados sanitários, conseguindo, por exemplo, evitar hospitalizações. Essas melhorias podem ser medidas através dos indicadores de saúde da Comunidade Europeia (94) e no âmbito do projeto da OCDE «Indicadores da qualidade dos cuidados de saúde (95)». Em abril de 2012, teve início formal uma ação comum europeia sobre a segurança dos doentes e a qualidade dos cuidados de saúde (96).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008766/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Deterioration in healthcare services in Portugal (II)

In answer to written question E-005146/2013, on the deterioration in healthcare services in Portugal, the Commission states that ‘Portuguese public health expenditure as a percentage of GDP has remained stable during the Economic Adjustment Programme, even though the crisis had an impact on the country’s GDP. Furthermore, in recent years, the available statistics on the Portuguese healthcare system show a significant decrease in the share of the population which reported unmet medical needs for economic reasons (including price, distance and waiting lists)’. It adds that it ‘is not in a position to judge that there has been a deterioration in the quality of healthcare services provided in Portugal’.

However, according to Statistics Portugal (INE), in 2011 and 2012, current health expenditure declined at a rate much faster than GDP. Moreover, in 2011 and 2012, the proportion of current health expenditure financed by households increased, accounting for 28.9% and 31.7% respectively (27.4% in 2010). At the same time, there was a decrease in funding from the National Health Service which represented 54.5% of current expenditure in 2012 (down 1.1 percentage points on 2011 and 2.8 percentage points on 2010). This means that Portuguese families alone spent more on health, at a time when (between 2011 and 2012) the wage share in the national economy experienced its biggest drop since 1984 and unemployment saw a dramatic rise.

‘available statistics on the Portuguese healthcare system’ does the Commission refer to in its answer? To which years do these statistics refer?

‘in a position to judge that there has been a deterioration in the quality of healthcare services provided in Portugal’ following this programme’s implementation? Why is it not in a position to judge?

‘value for money’ through so-called ‘health system reforms’? How does it evaluate ‘quality’ in this case?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The most recently (97) available Eurostat data shows that public expenditure on health in Portugal increased slightly from 6.7% of GDP in 2010 to 6.8% in 2011, with a nominal budget increase shown when both GDP and total public budgets decreased.

Eurostat data on access to care, measured as self-reported unmet needs for medical examination, show a decrease in reported ‘unmet needs associated with economic reasons (such as price, distance and waiting lists)’ in Portugal between 2010 and 2011, contrary to the overall trend for the EU.

The Commission is not in a position to judge whether or not there has been a deterioration in the quality of healthcare services in Portugal following the introduction of the Economic AdjustmentProgrammein May 2011 on the basis of the available data.

Health system reforms in Portugal in the framework of the Economic Assistance Program aim at improved efficiency and effectiveness. Savings mainly concern the area of pharmaceuticals and hospital operating costs. The objective is to maintain access to care and its quality and to increase value for money. Further measures, such as those in support of better prescribing practices are expected to bring both savings and improved health outcomes, for instance through avoiding hospitalisations. Such improvements can be measured via the European Community health indicators (98) and the OECD Health Care Quality Indicators Project (99). A European joint action on patient safety and quality of care (100) formally started in April 2012.

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008767/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Preços dos combustíveis para o setor da pesca nos Estados‐Membros

Solicito à Comissão que me informe sobre quais os Estados‐Membros em que existe um preço mais reduzido (após impostos) para o gasóleo e gasolina destinados à pesca, em comparação com o preço nos restantes consumidores. Dispõe a Comissão de informação comparativa relativa ao preço dos combustíveis (gasóleo e gasolina), após impostos, para o setor da pesca nos vários Estados‐Membros?

Resposta dada por Maria Damanaki em nome da Comissão

(12 de setembro de 2013)

A Comissão não dispõe de dados completos suficientes sobre os preços do gasóleo e da gasolina para o setor da pesca que permitam efetuar uma comparação exaustiva de todos os segmentos de frota da UE, dos Estados‐Membros e de outros setores. Estas informações são conservadas ao nível dos Estados‐Membros e podem variar de umas regiões para outras.

Contudo, o Relatório Económico Anual das frotas de pesca da UE apresenta estimativas anuais do custo e do consumo de combustíveis de diversas frotas da UE. Essas estimativas não incluem todos os Estados‐Membros e não distinguem entre o consumo de gasolina e de gasóleo. O relatório, bem como os dados pertinentes, está disponível ao público na página Web do Comité Científico, Técnico e Económico das Pescas.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008767/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Fuel prices for the fisheries sector in the Member States

Which Member States have lower diesel and petrol prices (after tax) for the fisheries sector than other consumers? Does the Commission have any comparative information on the price of fuel (diesel and petrol), after tax, for the fisheries sector in the different Member States?

Answer given by Ms Damanaki on behalf of the Commission

(12 September 2013)

The Commission does not record complete enough data on diesel and petrol prices for the fisheries sector to allow for a comprehensive comparison across all EU fleet segments, Member States and other sectors. This information is retained at Member State level and can vary across regions within different Member States.

However, the Annual Economic Report of the EU fishing fleets provides annual estimates of average fuel cost and fuel consumption for several EU fleets. These estimates do not include all Member States and do not differentiate between petrol and diesel consumption. The report, along with the relevant data, is publicly available on the webpage of the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries.

(Nederlandse versie)

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-008769/13

aan de Commissie (Vicevoorzitter / Hoge Vertegenwoordiger)

Bastiaan Belder (EFD)

(17 juli 2013)

Betreft: VP/HR — Verslag van de Europese Rekenkamer over de besteding van financiële steun van de EU aan Egypte

Deelt de Vicevoorzitter / Hoge Vertegenwoordiger de mening dat het onwenselijk is dat steun aan landen met gebrek aan verantwoording niet gekoppeld is aan voorwaarden ten aanzien van bestedingsdoeleinden, wettigheid, regelmatigheid, doeltreffendheid en doelmatigheid, zoals in het geval van Egypte?

Zo ja, op welke wijze en  termijn wil de Vicevoorzitter / Hoge Vertegenwoordiger deze onverantwoorde aanpak omzetten in een benadering met robuuste voorwaarden en verantwoordingsplicht, te beginnen met de casus Egypte?

Vraag met verzoek om schriftelijk antwoord E-008770/13

aan de Commissie

Bastiaan Belder (EFD)

(17 juli 2013)

Betreft: Verslag van de Europese Rekenkamer over de besteding van financiële steun van de EU aan Egypte

Deelt de Commissie de mening dat het onwenselijk is dat steun aan landen met gebrek aan verantwoording niet gekoppeld is aan voorwaarden ten aanzien van bestedingsdoeleinden, wettigheid, regelmatigheid, doeltreffendheid en doelmatigheid, zoals in het geval van Egypte?

Zo ja, op welke wijze en  termijn wil de Commissie deze onverantwoorde aanpak omzetten in een benadering met robuuste voorwaarden en verantwoordingsplicht, te beginnen met de casus Egypte?

Antwoord van hoge vertegenwoordiger/vicevoorzitter Ashton namens de Commissie

(28 oktober 2013)

Overeenkomstig haar herziene richtsnoeren inzake begrotingssteun stelt de Commissie in Egypte en in andere landen die begrotingssteun ontvangen, de uitbetalingen volledig afhankelijk van de vooruitgang van de hervormingen en de ondubbelzinnige verwezenlijking van de desbetreffende voorwaarden. Bovendien kan in het kader van het Spring-programma, waarvoor Egypte in principe in aanmerking kan komen, aanvullende steun wordt gekoppeld aan democratische hervormingen. Sinds augustus 2011 heeft de Commissie voor Egypte dan ook geen nieuwe begrotingssteun meer vastgesteld.

Om de resultaten van haar hulpprogramma’s te meten, beschikt de Commissie over instrumenten die haar in staat stellen lessen te trekken uit opgedane ervaringen. Naast systeemcontroles en financiële controles bij elk project dat zij financiert, verricht de Commissie in overeenstemming met de methode voor projectcyclusbeheer regelmatige onafhankelijke, resultaatgerichte controleoefeningen alsook tussentijdse en eindevaluaties, en evaluaties achteraf. Vijf aspecten worden systematisch beoordeeld: relevantie, doelmatigheid, doeltreffendheid, impact en duurzaamheid.

Voor vragen in verband met het recente Europese jaarverslag van de Rekenkamer over Egypte wordt het geachte Parlementslid verwezen naar het antwoord van de Commissie op de eerdere schriftelijke vragen (E-007098/2013, E-007109/2013, E-007124/2013, E-007261/2013 en E-007646/2013 (101)).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008769/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Bastiaan Belder (EFD)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — Court of Auditors' report on granting EU financial aid to Egypt

Does the Vice-President/High Representative agree that it is definitely desirable to link aid to countries displaying a lack of accountability to conditions based on allocation purposes, legality, regularity, effectiveness and efficiency, as in the case of Egypt?

If so, how and by when will the Vice-President/High Representative turn this irresponsible approach into one featuring robust conditions and accountability, starting with Egypt?

Question for written answer E-008770/13

to the Commission

Bastiaan Belder (EFD)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Court of Auditors' report on granting EU financial aid to Egypt

Does the Commission agree that it is definitely desirable to link aid to countries displaying a lack of accountability to conditions based on allocation purposes, legality, regularity, effectiveness and efficiency, as in the case of Egypt?

If so, how and by when will the Commission turn this irresponsible approach into one featuring robust conditions and accountability, starting with Egypt?

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

(28 October 2013)

In line with its overhauled Budget Support guidelines, in Egypt and in other countries that receive budget support, the Commission conditions its financial disbursements entirely on progress in reforms and the unequivocal fulfilment of relevant conditions. Moreover, additional support under the SPRING Programme, for which Egypt could in principle be eligible, would be linked to democratic reforms. Thus, no new Budget Support operation has been decided for Egypt since August 2011.

To measure the performance of its aid programmes the Commission has tools that allow it to draw lessons from past experience. In addition to system and financial audits on each project it funds, the Commission, in line with the Project Cycle Management methodology, conducts regular independent results-oriented monitoring exercises as well as mid-term, final and ex-post evaluations. Five dimensions are systematically assessed: Relevance, Efficiency, Effectiveness, Impact and Sustainability.

For questions related to the recent European Court of Auditors’ report on Egypt, the Honourable Member is referred to the Commission’s reply to previous written questions (E-007098/2013, E-007109/2013, E-007124/2013, E-007261/2013 and E-007646/2013 (102)).

(Wersja polska)

Pytanie wymagające odpowiedzi pisemnej E-008771/13

do Komisji

Joanna Katarzyna Skrzydlewska (PPE)

(17 lipca 2013 r.)

Przedmiot: Masowe wymieranie pszczół

Obecnie alarmującym problemem jest wzrastające zjawisko masowego wymierania pszczół. Jedną z przyczyn odpowiedzialną za śmierć tych owadów są pestycydy pochodzące z grupy neonikotynoidów. Znajdują się one w środkach owadobójczych, używanych do zaprawiania nasion. W styczniu 2013 Europejski Urząd do spraw Bezpieczeństwa Żywności uznał, że te pestycydy przekraczają akceptowalne ryzyko dla pszczół. Okazało się, iż pierwotne badania, prowadzone przez producentów środków mających na celu ochronę roślin, są błędne. W związku z tym, proszę o odpowiedź:

Odpowiedź udzielona przez komisarza Tonia Borga w imieniu Komisji

(30 sierpnia 2013 r.)

Informacje na temat działań UE dotyczących zdrowia pszczół zostały przedstawione w odpowiedziach Komisji na pytania wymagające odpowiedzi na piśmie E-010188/2011, E-000160/2012, E-010355/2012 oraz E-003944/2013 (103).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008771/13

to the Commission

Joanna Katarzyna Skrzydlewska (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Mass extinction of bees

The mass extinction of bees is becoming an increasingly alarming problem. One of the reasons why these insects are dying is the use of pesticides from the neonicotinoid group, which are found in seed treatment insecticides. In January 2013, the European Food Safety Authority decided that these pesticides exceeded the maximum acceptable level of harm to bees. It appears that the research originally carried out by the manufacturers of these plant protection products was wrong. I would therefore like to ask the following questions:

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(30 August 2013)

Information on EU actions addressing bee health was given in Commission's replies to written questions E-010188/2011, E-000160/2012, E-010355/2012 and E-003944/2013 (113).

(Versão portuguesa)

Pergunta com pedido de resposta escrita E-008772/13

à Comissão

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 de julho de 2013)

Assunto: Procedimentos de infração aos Estados‐Membros — Céu Único Europeu

Notícias na imprensa portuguesa dão conta de que a Comissão Europeia admitiu que pode abrir um procedimento de infração contra sete Estados‐Membros, entre os quais Portugal, devido ao atraso na concretização do chamado «Céu Único Europeu».

Solicito à Comissão que me informe sobre o seguinte:

Resposta dada por Siim Kallas em nome da Comissão

(3 de setembro de 2013)

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008772/13

to the Commission

João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Infringement proceedings against Member States — Single European Sky

According to Portuguese press reports, the Commission has said that it may open infringement proceedings against seven Member States, including Portugal, due to a delay in implementing the so-called ‘Single European Sky’.

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

(Suomenkielinen versio)

Kirjallisesti vastattava kysymys E-008773/13

komissiolle

Mitro Repo (S&D)

(17. heinäkuuta 2013)

Aihe: Sukututkimus ja yleinen tietosuoja-asetus

Komissio antoi vastauksessaan kirjalliseen kysymykseen (E-005400/2013) olettaa, että se katsoo sukututkimuksen kuuluvan yleisen tietosuoja-asetuksen soveltamisalaan. Komissio antoi myös ymmärtää sukututkimuksen kuuluvan osaksi historiallista tutkimusta, josta säädetään 83 artiklassa.

Sukututkimusta vaikeuttaisi uuteen tietosuoja-asetukseen sisältyvä vaatimus suostumuksen edellyttämisestä henkilötietojen kohteelta. Sukututkijat pelkäävät uuden vaatimuksen johtavan sukukirjojen tekemisen loppumiseen.

Jälkimmäisessä tilanteessa asetusehdotuksen 6 artiklan 2 kohtaa voitaisiin tarkentaa niin, että siitä kävisi selkeästi ilmi, että historiallinen, tilastollinen ja tieteellinen tutkimus muodostavat poikkeuksen artiklan 1 kohdassa mainituista tietojenkäsittelyedellytyksistä, mm. rekisteröidyn nimenomaisesta suostumuksesta.

Viviane Redingin komission puolesta antama vastaus

(2. syyskuuta 2013)

Komission vaikutustenarviointiohjeiden (123) mukaisesti ehdotukseen yleiseksi tietosuoja-asetukseksi liitettiin perusteellinen, kolme laajaa vaikutusluokkaa kattava vaikutusten arviointi (124), jossa arvioitiin taloudelliset, sosiaaliset ja ympäristöön liittyvät vaikutukset. Vaikutustenarvioinnissa huomioitiin myös tutkimustarkoituksessa tapahtuvaan henkilötietojen käsittelyyn liittyvät näkökohdat. Sukututkimusta ei tässä yhteydessä tarkasteltu erikseen. On korostettava, että direktiivissä 95/46/EY ei ole erityisiä, sukututkimusta koskevia säännöksiä ja että komission tietoon ei ole tullut voimassaolevaan direktiivin liittyviä kyseistä tutkimusalaa koskevia vakavia ongelmia, eikä niitä tullut sen tietoon myöskään tietosuojauudistuksen valmistelua varten järjestetyssä julkisessa kuulemisessa.

Kysymyksiin sukututkimusta koskevien tai muiden säännösten lisäämisestä ehdotukseen tai säännösten poistamisesta siitä voidaan todeta, että lainsäätäjät käsittelevät parhaillaan komission ehdotusta yleiseksi tietosuoja-asetukseksi tavallisessa lainsäätämisjärjestyksessä.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008773/13

to the Commission

Mitro Repo (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Genealogical research and the General Data Protection Regulation

In its answer to Written Question E-005400/2013, the Commission indicated that it considers genealogical research to fall within the scope of the General Data Protection Regulation. The Commission also suggested that genealogical research falls under historical research, as provided for in Article 83.

The requirement to obtain consent from the subject for the use of personal data would make genealogical research more difficult. Genealogical researchers fear that the new requirement will put an end to the publication of genealogies.

In the latter case, Article 6(2) of the regulation could be reformulated to make it clear that historical, statistical and scientific research constitute an exception to the data processing conditions mentioned in paragraph 1 of the article; for example, the explicit consent of the data subject.

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(2 September 2013)

In accordance with the Commission's Impact Assessment Guidelines (125), the proposal for a General Data Protection Regulation was accompanied by a thorough impact assessment (126) which assessed three broad categories of impacts, namely economic, social and environmental impacts. Aspects pertaining to processing of personal data for research purposes have been touched upon in the impact assessment. The area of genealogical research was not specifically examined in this context. It must be underlined that there is no specific provision concerning genealogical research in Directive 95/46/EC and that the Commission has not been made aware of serious problems under the existing Directive in respect of this area of research nor has it been made aware during the public consultation it conducted in preparation of the work for the data protection reform.

As regards the addition of genealogical research or of other provisions to the text of the regulation or the removal of provisions, the Commission’s proposal for a General Data Protection Regulation is currently being examined by the co-legislators in the ordinary legislative procedure.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta P-008774/13

alla Commissione

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Progetto Transacqua per il Sahel

A causa della siccità e della guerra, oltre 11 milioni di persone sono minacciate dalla carestia nel Sahel. «Il conflitto nel Mali — ha dichiarato il coordinatore umanitario dell'ONU Robert Piper — ha sradicato migliaia di persone e sta avendo un effetto tremendo». L'Onu stessa, a causa della crisi siriana che ha distratto fondi, non è riuscita a fornire aiuti d'emergenza all'altezza dei bisogni. La crisi umanitaria miete vittime e crea grandi sofferenze ai popoli africani che cercano di sopravvivere in quella zona, sofferenza che potrebbe essere alleviata se si potesse far giungere acqua in quelle regioni.

Sviluppato dall'IRI nel 1972, il progetto «Transacqua» consiste in un canale lungo 2.400 Km, che attingendo il 5 % complessivo degli affluenti del fiume Congo, scaricherebbe nel lago Ciad 70/100 miliardi di metri cubi all'anno, sufficienti a ripristinare la dimensione originale del lago, oggi ridotto a meno di un ventesimo di quel che era appena 50 anni fa. Oltre a ricostituire il lago, Transacqua fermerebbe l'avanzata del deserto, creerebbe un'area di sviluppo agricolo ampia come la Lombardia e genererebbe una notevole capacità di produzione idroelettrica. Nel 2010 i paesi del bacino del lago Ciad si riunirono a Ndjiamena per accordarsi su una versione ridotta di trasferimento idrico. Il presidente Gheddafi partecipò all'incontro e offrì la partecipazione della Libia al progetto.

Può la Commissione far sapere:

Risposta di Andris Piebalgs a nome della Commissione

(16 agosto 2013)

L'UE si adopera con impegno per affrontare la questioni attinenti alla desertificazione del Sahel e alla resilienza delle popolazioni e dei paesi, compresa la salvaguardia del lago Ciad.

Attraverso il 9° Fondo europeo di sviluppo (FES), l'UE ha sostenuto la gestione integrata delle risorse idriche del lago erogando 2,5 milioni di euro a favore della Commissione del bacino del lago Ciad (CBLT).

L'UE è al corrente del progetto di trasferimento delle acque dell'Oubangui verso il lago Ciad (Transacqua). Gli studi di fattibilità preliminari indicano tuttavia che il progetto comporterebbe notevoli rischi ambientali.

In occasione del Forum mondiale sull'acqua tenutosi a Marsiglia nel 2012, il presidente ciadiano ha presentato 32 proposte di progetti volti a preservare il lago Ciad. L'UE esamina queste proposte valutandone le potenzialità, la fattibilità e l'impatto ambientale. Una componente degli stanziamenti dell'11° FES per il Ciad sarà destinata alla gestione delle risorse naturali e potrebbe comprendere un contributo alla salvaguardia del lago Ciad, la cui superficie è sempre stata caratterizzata da forti fluttuazioni e che risente attualmente delle inondazioni del 2012. L'UE analizza altresì il potenziale idroelettrico delle zone montuose del bacino del Logone, affluente del lago Ciad.

Nel 2013 è stato concesso un aiuto umanitario di 115 milioni di euro, di cui 22 milioni di euro per il Ciad, in risposta alla crisi alimentare in atto nel Sahel. Sono inoltre stati stanziati 77 milioni di euro in risposta alla crisi nel Mali. L'UE lancia costantemente un appello per la protezione dello spazio umanitario e il rispetto dei principi umanitari affinché sia possibile raggiungere le persone in difficoltà. Gli sviluppi sul fronte della sicurezza ostacolano gli interventi umanitari in varie zone del Sahel.

(English version)

Question for written answer P-008774/13

to the Commission

Cristiana Muscardini (ECR)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Transacqua project for the Sahel

As a result of drought and war, more than 11 million people in the Sahel are threatened with famine. According to the UN Regional Humanitarian Coordinator, Robert Piper, the fighting in Mali has displaced thousands of people and is having a devastating effect. Because funds have been diverted away by the Syrian crisis, even the UN contribution, in terms of emergency aid, has been falling short of what is needed. The humanitarian crisis is claiming its toll of victims and causing great suffering to the African peoples endeavouring to survive in the Sahel. Their suffering could, however, be alleviated if a way were found to bring water to the region.

Developed by IRI in 1972, the Transacqua project consists of a 2 400 km canal spanning 5% of the tributaries of the Congo River that would carry between 70 and 100 billion m3 of water a year to Lake Chad, enough to restore the lake to its original size: it has shrunk to less than one twentieth of what it was only 50 years ago. In addition to refilling the lake, Transacqua would halt desertification, create an agricultural development area the size of Lombardy, and generate substantial hydropower production capacity. When they met in N’Djamena in 2010, the countries bordering Lake Chad agreed to implement water transfer on a more modest scale. Colonel Gadaffi, who attended the meeting, offered Libya’s support for the project.

‘Transacqua’ water transfer project?

(Version française)

L'UE est engagée sur les questions qui touchent la désertification au Sahel, la résilience des populations et des pays, y compris la préservation du Lac Tchad.

Avec le 9e Fonds européen pour le développement (FED), l'UE a soutenu la gestion intégrée des ressources en eau du lac en appuyant la Commission du Bassin du Lac Tchad (CBLT) à hauteur de 2,5 millions d'euros.

L'UE a connaissance du projet de transfert des eaux de l'Oubangui vers le lac Tchad (Transacqua). Cependant, les études préliminaires de faisabilité indiquent que ce projet entrainerait des risques environnementaux importants.

Lors du Forum Mondial pour l'Eau à Marseille en 2012, le Président tchadien a présenté 32 propositions de projet visant la sauvegarde du Lac Tchad. L'UE étudie ces propositions en prenant en compte leurs potentialités, faisabilité et impact environnemental. Le 11e FED pour le Tchad aura une composante dédiée à la gestion des ressources naturelles qui pourrait inclure un appui pour la préservation du Lac Tchad caractérisé historiquement par des grandes fluctuations dans sa surface et souffrant actuellement des impacts des inondations de 2012. L'UE étudie également les potentialités hydroélectriques qui se situent dans des zones montagneuses du Bassin Logone, affluent du Lac Tchad.

En réponse à la crise alimentaire en cours au Sahel, une aide humanitaire de 115 millions d'euros a été allouée en 2013 dont 22 millions d'euros pour le Tchad. 77 millions d'euros ont été alloués par ailleurs pour la crise au Mali. L'UE fait un plaidoyer pour la protection de l'espace humanitaire et les respects des principes humanitaires afin d'accéder aux personnes dans le besoin. L'évolution sécuritaire complique l'action humanitaire dans diverses zones du Sahel.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008775/13

to the Commission

David Martin (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Single European Sky II+ initiative and possible job losses in the aviation sector

Under its proposals for the Single European Sky II+ initiative the Commission will set EU‐wide targets for safety, cost efficiency and environmental standards which national aviation authorities must develop and meet in the Member States. Can the Commission indicate at what stage the discussions are with the Civil Aviation Authority in the UK?

Does the Commission foresee that implementation of the targets may result in job losses in the aviation sector and if so, how does the Commission intend to address this?

Answer given by Mr Kallas on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The Single European Sky Performance Scheme, including the setting of EU-wide performance targets for safety, cost-efficiency, capacity and environment, was already introduced in 2009 when the SES II package was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council. The key elements of the Performance Scheme remain unchanged in the SES II+ proposal.

Currently, the Commission is in the process of preparing for the second reference period of the Performance Scheme (RP2) from 2015 to 2019. EU-wide targets for that period will be decided under comitology rules by the end of this year. In this work, the Commission is assisted by the independent Performance Review Body. Furthermore, for the process of RP2 target setting, considerable dialogue and engagement with staff bodies and associations will take place at EU and national level.

More generally, in order to achieve the Single European Sky, changes are necessary on how air traffic management is organised in Europe, which may bring changes to the staff working in this sector. However, for the recent proposal to revise the Single European Sky legal framework (SES II+), it was established that due to growth triggered in the aviation sector a net gain of additional jobs would be created.

In parallel to the process of setting EU-wide targets, preparations for RP2 have already started at national level. In the UK, the Civil Aviation Authority has recently issued a mandate for customer consultation between NATS (En Route) plc and airspace users setting out the CAA's expectations for the review and refinement of NATS (En Route) plc's business plan for RP2.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008776/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and Gaza

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called on the Israeli Government and authorities to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law (IHL), including securing an immediate end to house demolitions, evictions and forced displacement of Palestinians.

Since July 2012, these particular violations of IHL have continued unabated. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs’ monthly occupied Palestinian Territory (oPT) humanitarian reports, a major spike in demolitions and displacement occurred in January 2012.

What steps has the EU taken, or what steps is it considering taking, to ensure respect for IHL on these issues given the deterioration of the situation and considering that extensive destruction and forced transfer amount to serious violations of IHL?

How is the EU supporting the occupied population in maintaining their presence in their homes and on their lands? What steps are being taken, or are being considered, to support the return of persons forcibly displaced within the oPT?

What is the EU doing to address the situation of the 2 400 people who remain displaced by the hostilities in Gaza in November 2012, as well as the thousands who remain displaced as a result of Operation Cast Lead in 2008 and 2009?

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

(13 September 2013)

The HR/VP has taken due note of the EP resolution of 5 July 2012 on EU policy on the West Bank and East Jerusalem and, while focused on achieving the resumption of direct final status negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis, has taken forward EU policy on issues related to the Middle East peace process very much in line with that resolution.

In so doing the EU has maintained state-building assistance to the Palestinian Authority and developed cooperation to address practical consequences of the continuing Israeli occupation as well as raising concerns with the Israeli authorities as and when appropriate. Palestinians have legitimate claims based on both international humanitarian law and human rights law. In the meantime, the EU also continues to condition any ‘upgrade’ in relations with Israel on respect for international humanitarian law as well as progress in the Middle East peace process.

In the West Bank, the HR/VP welcomes the continuing lull in demolitions reported by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, with none having been recorded in Area C or East Jersualem since the start of Ramadan (10 July) until 13 August, in line with the EU's calls to the Israeli government.

The EU continues to support projects aimed at maintaining the livelihoods of Palestinians across the West bank, including humanitarian support to displaced people in the Gaza Strip. The EU is concerned that continued Israeli restrictions on the import of construction materials, limiting the impact of donor-funded housing self-help programmes. It will continue to raise these matters in discussions with the Israeli government.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008777/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called on the Israeli Government and authorities to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law (IHL), including facilitating Palestinian planning and building activities and the implementation of Palestinian development projects.

Is the VP/HR aware of the expert legal opinion of Professor Marco Sassoli and Dr Théo Bouthruche (127), which holds that IHL requires the transfer of planning authority over Area C back to Palestinian institutions?

What is the VP/HR’s assessment of this conclusion? What steps have been taken, or are being considered, by the EU to support the transfer of planning authority in Area C to Palestinian institutions?

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

(13 September 2013)

The HR/VP has duly noted the Parliament resolution referred to by the Honourable Member. The EU itself has always called on all its partners, including Israel, to meet their obligations under international law. Further, the EU holds that Palestinians have legitimate claims based on both international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

Concerning Area C, on more than one occasion, the EU has stated its determination to engage in a gradual, positive and non-confrontational manner with the Israeli counterparts on all related matters. That said, the EU's assistance for Area C envisages a package of measures that include support for the Palestinian Authority's (PA) planning priorities thus also responding to the PA's strategy for Area C. Further, while for instance master plans are being submitted to the village councils of the Israeli Civil Administration, it is considered that any further permits within those submitted master plans would be within the remit of Palestinian institutions.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008778/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called on the Israeli Government and authorities to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law (IHL), including facilitating access and movement.

In response to two rockets fired on 21 March 2013, the Israeli Ministry of Defence limited civilian movement out of Gaza, at the only remaining goods crossing, and later announced the reduction of the Gaza fishing zone to only 3 nautical miles (128).

What representations has the EU made, or what representations is the EU planning to make, to Israeli interlocutors on this issue?

Does the EU take the view that closing Gaza’s only goods crossing (which is subject to Israeli supervision and is relied upon by the civilian population of Gaza), as well as limiting the fishing zone, was justified by military necessity, and proportional in this situation?

Given the apparent causal link between the rocket fire and the abovementioned measures which were taken largely to the detriment of civilians, does the EU concur that these measures may amount to punishing the civilian population for acts they did not commit, i.e. collective punishment, as prohibited by the 1907 Hague Regulations and the Fourth Geneva Convention (Article 33)? What steps will the EU take, or what steps is it considering taking, to hold Israel accountable and ensure that it complies with this rule of IHL in future?

Question for written answer E-008779/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called on the Israeli Government and authorities to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law, including facilitating the access of Palestinians to farming and grazing locations.

What action has the EU undertaken, or what action is it considering undertaking, in order to ensure that Israel facilitates the access of Palestinians to farming locations in the ‘buffer zone’ in Gaza?

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

(13 September 2013)

The HR/VP, although not concurring that Israeli policy amounts to a policy of collective punishment, is particularly concerned by the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and continues to call for the full opening of all crossings, while respecting legitimate Israeli security concerns. It is vital that all parties continue to respect the 21 November ceasefire. Rocket attacks on Israel must cease.

Israel returned to allowing Palestinian fishing up to six nautical miles in May which, while welcome and allowing a 76% increase in the sardine catch compared with the same period in 2012 according to the UN, is still significantly less than the 20 miles set out in the Oslo Accords. Israel has also allowed improved access to farmland close to the Gaza-Israel fence following the ceasefire, although the lack of publicly available information setting out Israeli policy continues to create uncertainty and instability for civilians. The Netherlands has supported the FAO in transforming barren land in formerly restricted areas into arable areas. The EU is determined to build on the ceasefire and work towards a fundamental change in the situation of the Gaza Strip for the benefit of the local population, and will continue to raise these matters with Israel, Egypt and the Palestinian Authority. Meanwhile, the EU also continues to condition any ‘upgrade’ in relations with Israel on respect for international humanitarian law as well as progress in the Middle East peace process.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008780/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called on the Israeli Government and authorities to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law, including ensuring a fair distribution of water to meet the needs of the Palestinian population.

What action has the EU taken, or what action is it considering taking, to ensure that Israel removes physical and administrative restrictions on Palestinian access to and use of shared water resources, as well as halting the extraction of water from the Palestinian share of the water resources by actors under Israel’s authority?

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

(13 September 2013)

The HR/VP has duly noted the Resolution referred to by the Honourable Member and has constantly urged its partners including Israel to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law.

The EU is fully cognisant of the challenges concerning the access to and management of water resources shared between Israel and Palestine and has consistently encouraged both parties to address all final status issues including water during negotiations.

In this context, the EU has also earmarked water as one of its priority sectors for financial assistance to the Palestinian people. The EU aims to support the Palestinian Water Authority to provide collective sanitation, improve treatment of wastewater and re-use part of it for agriculture purposes.

In the framework of its regular dialogue with the Israeli authorities, the EU has raised its concern regarding the situation of water in Palestine, in particular the destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure during Israeli military incursions. The EU also insists that there should be no obstruction to water-related infrastructure development in Palestine.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008781/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called on the Council and the Commission to continue to address the issues raised in the resolution at all levels in the EU’s bilateral relations with Israel and the Palestinian Authority. It also stressed that Israel’s commitment to respect its obligations towards the Palestinian population under international human rights and humanitarian law must be taken into full consideration in the EU’s bilateral relations with the country.

What action has the EU taken, or what action is it considering taking, to secure the compliance of Israel with international humanitarian law (IHL) (and particularly the obligations outlined in paragraph 10 of the resolution):

How does the Commission explain the absence of recommendations addressing these IHL obligations in the recently released European Neighbourhood Policy Progress Report on Israel? Will recommendations addressing Israel’s IHL obligations be considered in future reports, in line with the EU Guidelines on Promotion of Compliance with IHL?

How were these IHL obligations addressed in the EU-Israel Human Rights Working Group, given that the EU Guidelines on Promotion of Compliance with IHL require IHL to be addressed in all dialogues with third countries where it is relevant?

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

(13 September 2013)

In the context of bilateral relations with Israel, the EU seeks to secure Israel's compliance with the points set out in paragraph 10 of the Parliamentary Resolution of 5 July 2012 primarily through its dialogue with the Government under the EU-Israel Association Council structures, as well as through more regular diplomatic contacts on the ground. However, these issues are not addressed in the EU-Israel informal human rights working group which focuses on issues pertaining to the human rights situation inside Israel only, and those in the EU. It should also be noted that the EU continues to condition any ‘upgrade’ in relations with Israel on respect for IHL as well as progress in the Middle East peace process.

In terms of the EU Guidelines on Promotion of Compliance with IHL, the HR/VP makes use of many of the ‘means of action’ set out in Section B of the guidelines in its relations with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority to promote complicance with IHL, including political dialogue, public statements, demarches, and cooperation with other international bodies.

The European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) progress report on Israel for 2012 did not include any specific recommendations linked to the points set out in paragraph 10 of the Parliamentary Resolution of 5 July 2012. The recommendations, in line with the reports for all ENP countries, were limited in number and largely linked to attaining objectives in bilateral relations under the ENP Action Plan across a range of sectors. Nevertheless, a recommendation linked to combatting settler violence was included and the EU has been active in pursuing the aforementioned points via other means, including those set out in reply to previous written questions E-008776/2013, E-008777/2013 and E-008780/2013 (129).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008782/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution encouraged the Palestinian Government and authorities to pay increasing attention to Area C and East Jerusalem in Palestinian national development plans and projects, with the aim of improving the situation and living conditions of the Palestinian population in these areas.

What support has the EU given, or what support is the EU considering giving, to the Palestinian Government and authorities in including Area C and East Jerusalem in Palestinian national development plans and projects? What have been, or are expected to be, the outcomes?

Question for written answer E-008783/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution (P7_TA(2012)0298) on EU Policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The resolution called on the Council and the Commission to continue to support and deliver assistance to Palestinian institutions and development projects in Area C and in East Jerusalem, with the aim of protecting and strengthening the Palestinian population.

Are there any EU projects in Area C and East Jerusalem currently awaiting Israeli approval? If so, for how long? So far what has been the response of the Israeli authorities in respect of these projects?

What levels of assistance have the EU and its Member States currently committed to development projects in favour of the occupied population in Area C and in East Jerusalem?

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

(24 September 2013)

Through its bilateral assistance programme the EU has, for a number of years, focused on both East Jerusalem and Area C albeit through different instruments. Both are priority objectives of the recently adopted EU-Palestinian Authority (PA) European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) Action Plan (EU-PA ENP). Concerning their inclusion in Palestinian national development plans, the PA is currently working on the 2013-2016 Palestinian National Development Plan which has not yet been finalised. That said, given the PA's inability to work in East Jerusalem, the EU's main counterpart for East Jerusalem is the Office of the President.

Through an annual EUR 8 million package for East Jerusalem, the EU has been providing support to the Palestinian population with a view to ensuring their access to services in line with the EU's political priority to maintain the conditions for Jerusalem to become the future capital of two states. Through extensive coordination on the ground, EU missions are also definining a strategy for development in East Jerusalem which should be Palestinian-led. The EU does not recognise the Israeli annexation of East Jerusalem.

The EU, through its representations on the ground, is determined to engage in a gradual, positive and non-confrontational manner with Israeli counterparts on all matters relating to Area C. The programming exercise carried out for 2012 funding for Palestine envisages a package of measures for Area C including support for the PA's planning capacities and some small-scale infrastructure. In parallel, humanitarian assistance will continue to be provided in Area C in line with humanitarian principles.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008784/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012 Parliament passed a resolution (P7_TA(2012)0298) on EU policy on the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The resolution called on the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the Commission to verify on the ground all allegations concerning the destruction of and damage caused to EU-funded structures and projects in the occupied territory, and to submit the results to Parliament.

What progress has been made in verifying the extent of destruction and damage caused to EU‐ and Member State-funded structures in the occupied Palestinian Territory?

How many EU‐ and Member State-funded structures in the West Bank were demolished by the Israeli occupation authorities in 2012 and so far in 2013? What was the cost to the EU and Member States? How many EU‐ and Member State-funded structures remain under demolition orders? If this information has not yet been obtained by the EEAS and the Commission, when can Parliament expect a presentation of these findings?

What steps have been taken to hold Israel accountable for the demolition of EU‐ and Member State-funded structures? Have guarantees been obtained that such demolition will not occur again? Has compensation been claimed for the donor agencies or on behalf of affected communities? If not, what steps will be taken in this regard, including in the context of the EU Guidelines on Promotion of Compliance with International Humanitarian Law?

In May 2012, Commissioner Füle outlined the EU’s plans to safeguard future projects against demolition. This did not mention how the EU plans to ensure the protection of projects currently under demolition orders. What steps are being taken, or are being considered, to have existing demolition orders on EU‐ and Member State-funded structures revoked, including the stop-work orders on European projects in Susya, as reported in Haaretz on Friday, 28 June 2013, shortly after the last Foreign Affairs Council meeting?

What is being done by the EU, or what is it considering doing, to monitor systematically demolition orders against EU aid projects and to take concerted preventive action?

Has there been an assessment of the damage/destruction of EU‐ and Member State-funded structures in Gaza during the November 2012 escalation of hostilities? If so, what was the outcome? If not, what steps will be taken in this regard?

Question for written answer E-009446/13

to the Commission

Emer Costello (S&D)

(5 August 2013)

Subject: EU policy on Area C of the West Bank (V)

How many EU-funded structures have been demolished by the Israeli authorities since May 2012?

What was the value of those structures?

What compensation has been demanded and received from the Israeli authorities?

How many of the demolished structures have been rebuilt?

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

(13 September 2013)

The issue of damage to EU-funded structures is long-standing. Please refer to the reply to Question E-000053/2012 (130) for further details on estimated costs for the period 2000-2011.

Since May 2013, the EU has initiated a monthly incident-tracking system for EU-funded projects in Area C and East Jerusalem. According to this report, compiled by OCHA, 79 EU or EU Member State structures were demolished in 2012. As of June 2013, 54 such structures have been demolished in 2013.

In bilateral dialogue with Israel the EU has often raised the issue of the destruction of EU-funded structures. The HR/VP and the Commissioner responsible for Humanitarian Aid have recently written to Israeli Minister of Defence, Mr Moshe Ya'alon, outlining concerns about demolitions of Palestinian residential and livelihood structures in Area C. The case of Susiya was raised during the EU-Israel informal strategic dialogue held in Israel on 1 July 2013.

Following the November 2012 escalation in Gaza, the EU Delegation commissioned an assessment of beneficiaries of the Private Sector Reconstruction Programme for Gaza to determine how they had been affected. According to this, 22 out of the 906 beneficiaries who received funds under this EU programme were affected. The estimated total value of assets destroyed was EUR 112 500 representing 0.5% of the total funds disbursed to date. Nonetheless, these 22 beneficiaries also suffered damages to assets that had not been funded by the EU thus indirectly affecting the objective of the EU-funded programme.

The Commission is not in possession of any information regarding any potential damage to structures/projects funded by EU Member States as a result of the Gaza escalation.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008785/13

to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)

Emer Costello (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: VP/HR — EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

On 5 July 2012, Parliament passed a resolution on EU policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem (P7_TA(2012)0298). The resolution called for the protection of the Bedouin communities of the West Bank and in the Negev, and for their rights to be fully respected by the Israeli authorities, and it condemned any violations (e.g. house demolitions, forced displacements, public service limitations). It called also, in this context, for the withdrawal of the Prawer Plan by the Israeli Government.

There has been no ceasing of the plans to build in the E1 area, in spite of objections from the EU and from individual Member States. What steps is the EU taking, or considering, to protect communities within the E1 area, particularly the Bedouin community in the Jerusalem periphery? In particular, what steps are being taken, or considered, to bring a stop to the plan to forcibly transfer the Bedouin communities in the E1 area to a site near Jericho, considering that the forced transfer of civilians is a grave breach of the Geneva Conventions?

Did the EEAS discuss the Prawer Plan in the human rights working group with Israel held in 2012 and what message did the EEAS convey to Israel in relation to it?

How do the Commission and the EEAS explain the absence of any recommendations regarding the approval and/or the implementation of the Prawer Plan in the 2012 European Neighbourhood Policy progress report for Israel? Likewise, how does each institution explain the lack of any call to end the home demolitions (around 1 000 in 2012), or to recognise as many of the unrecognised villages as possible, in line with the Goldberg Commission report?

Does the VP/HR consider that the Prawer Plan is in conformity with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (in particular, Article 12(1) on freedom of movement and residence, and Article 26 on equality), the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights (in particular, Article 11(1) on the right to adequate housing) and with the UN Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement (in particular, Principles 6(1) and 7)?

Will the VP/HR stand with Parliament by publicly condemning the Prawer Plan and calling for its withdrawal?

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

(14 October 2013)

The EU outlined its extreme concern about potential developments in the E1 area in the Foreign Affairs Council conclusions of December 2012 and pledged to act in the event of development being taken forward.

Concerning the so-called Prawer-Begin Plan, this issue was not addressed in depth in the 2012 European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) progress report on Israel as, in line with all other countries, the progress report primarily takes stock of actual legislative or other developments in the year concerned, while the Prawer-Begin Plan was formally adopted by the Israeli Government's ministerial committee on legislative affairs in May 2013 and is now being debated in the Knesset. Nevertheless, the report did draw distinctions between the outline plan and the Goldberg Commission's recommendations.

The EEAS and Israel discussed the plan in the informal human rights working group during 2013. Israel presented the plan in detail, as well as initiatives aimed at promoting the development of Bedouin communities; the HR/VP notably took the opportunity to seek clarifications on various aspects of the plan and understand how Bedouin communities were consulted on it.

The legislation relating to the plan is the subject of an ongoing and active debate in the Knesset. It is not possible to give a final assessment as to whether the ultimate plan will be in conformity with Israel's international obligations. The EU continues actively to monitor developments, including through visits of diplomatic staff to the affected communities.

(Suomenkielinen versio)

Kirjallisesti vastattava kysymys E-008786/13

komissiolle

Nils Torvalds (ALDE) ja Sari Essayah (PPE)

(17. heinäkuuta 2013)

Aihe: Ongelmat tukikelpoisten kustannusten laskentamenetelmän kanssa valtiontuessa ympäristönsuojelulle (pakokaasujen vähentämisteknologia)

Ympäristönsuojeluun myönnettävää valtiontukea ja tukikelpoisten kustannusten laskentamenetelmää koskevassa EU:n suuntaviivojen 82 artiklassa todetaan seuraavasti:

”Tukikelpoiset kustannukset on laskettava ottaen huomioon ylimääräiseen ympäristönsuojeluinvestointiin liittyvät toiminnan tuotot ja toimintakustannukset asianomaisen investoinnin pitoajan viiden ensimmäisen vuoden ajalta. Tämä merkitsee sitä, että tällaiset toiminnan tuotot on vähennettävä ylimääräisistä investointikustannuksista ja tällaiset toimintakustannukset voidaan lisätä niihin.”

Tämä aiheuttaa vaikeuksia merenkulkualalle rahtaussopimusten yhteydessä. Investointikustannukset uuteen päästöjen vähentämisteknologiaan lankeavat aina aluksen omistajalle, mutta polttoaineen kulutuksen vaikutus ja menetetyn lastitilan luvut vaihtelevat eri rahtaussopimusten osapuolten välillä. Joissain tapauksissa lastitilan hinta on kauppasalaisuus, jonka tietää vain rahtaaja.

Erilaisiin meriteitse kuljetettaviin rahteihin ja aluksiin liittyvät sopimukset voidaan jakaa kahteen päätyyppiin: 1) matkarahtaukseen ja 2) aikarahtaukseen.

Matkarahtauksen ehdoilla toimivalle alukselle malli on yhdenmukainen suuntaviivojen mukaisen tukikelpoisten kustannusten laskentamenetelmän kanssa, koska omistaja maksaa kaikki matkakulut, myös polttoaineen.

Kuitenkaan aikarahtauksen ehdoilla toimiville aluksille tämä laskentamalli ei sovi lainkaan. Aikarahtauksen ehtojen mukaan aluksen omistaja elättää upseerit ja miehistön ja maksaa heidän palkkansa sekä aluksen huollon (mukaan lukien pakokaasun vähentämisteknologia), kun taas matkaan (polttoaineen kulutus) ja lastin käsittelyyn (menetetty lastitila) liittyvät kulut maksaa rahtaaja. Tämän vuoksi on mahdotonta määrittää investointikustannukset suhteessa toiminnan tuottoihin ja kustannuksiin.

Miten komissio varmistaa, että kaikilla erilaisilla rahtaussopimuksilla ja siten kaikilla eri tyyppisillä meritiekuljetuksilla on samat mahdollisuudet saada valtiontukea ympäristönsuojeluun, erityisesti pakokaasujen vähentämisteknologiaan, jota tarvitaan, jotta voidaan saavuttaa päästörajoitukset, jotka on asetettu direktiivissä 2012/33/EU neuvoston direktiivin 1999/32/EY muuttamisesta meriliikenteessä käytettävien polttoaineiden rikkipitoisuuden osalta?

Joaquín Almunian komission puolesta antama vastaus

(9. syyskuuta 2013)

Ympäristönsuojelutuen suuntaviivoissa määritetään ehdot, joiden perusteella komissio arvioi ympäristönsuojelun tason parantamiseksi myönnettävää valtiontukea, myös tukikelpoisten kustannusten laskentamenetelmää. (131)

Vaikka tiettyjä tilanteita varten on yksityiskohtaisempia ohjeita, aluksiin tehtäviä investointeja ei eritellä sen mukaan, onko kyseessä matkarahtaus‐ vai aikarahtaussopimus. Tästä syystä komissio soveltaa yleisiä sääntöjä arvioidessaan, voidaanko uuteen saastumisen torjuntatekniikkaan merenkulkualalla myönnettävät investointituet katsoa soveltuviksi sisämarkkinoille.

Tässä vaiheessa komissio ei katso, että yleiset säännöt estäisivät sitä ottamasta huomioon eroja alusten kaupallisissa liikennöintimuodoissa. Kysymyksen erittäin teknisen luonteen vuoksi komissio voi kuitenkin täsmentää kantansa vasta sen jälkeen, kun se on saanut konkreettisia valtiontukiehdotuksia arvoitavakseen.

(Svensk version)

Frågor för skriftligt besvarande E-008786/13

till kommissionen

Nils Torvalds (ALDE) och Sari Essayah (PPE)

(17 juli 2013)

Angående: Problem med metoden för beräkning av stödberättigande kostnader för statligt stöd för miljöskydd (avgasreningsteknik)

I artikel 82 i EU:s riktlinjer för statligt stöd till miljöskydd och metoden för beräkning av stödberättigande kostnader anges följande:

”Stödberättigande kostnader ska … beräknas med avdrag för eventuella driftsfördelar och driftskostnader som sammanhänger med den extra investeringen i miljöskyddssyfte och som uppkommit under de fem första åren av investeringens varaktighet. Det betyder att sådana driftsfördelar måste dras av och att sådana driftskostnader måste läggas till de extra investeringskostnaderna.”

Detta medför problem för sjöfartsnäringen i samband med befraktningsavtal. Investeringskostnaden för ny reningsteknik faller alltid på redaren men inflytandet över bränsleförbrukning och siffrorna över förlorat lastutrymmet varierar mellan olika befraktningsavtal. I vissa fall är priset på lastutrymmet en affärshemlighet som endast befraktaren känner till.

Avtal som hänför sig till olika typer av last och fartyg för sjötransporter kan delas in i två huvudgrupper: 1) resebefraktning och 2) tidsbefraktning.

För ett fartyg som används i enlighet med villkoren för resebefraktning stämmer modellen överens med metoden för beräkning av stödberättigande kostnader enligt riktlinjerna, eftersom ägaren betalar för resans samtliga kostnader, inbegripet drivmedel.

För fartyg som används i enlighet med villkoren för tidsbefraktning fungerar beräkningsmodellen dock inte alls. Enligt villkoren för tidsbefraktning ska redaren tillhandahålla och betala för befäl och besättning samt underhålla fartyget (inbegripet avgasreningstekniken), medan kostnader som hänför sig till resorna (drivmedelförbrukning) och lastnings-/eller lossningsarbetet (förlust av lastutrymme) ska betalas av befraktaren, vilket gör det omöjligt att fastställa investeringskostnaderna i förhållande till driftsfördelar och driftskostnader.

På vilket sätt kommer kommissionen att säkerställa att samtliga olika typer av fraktavtal, och därmed samtliga typer av sjötrafik, har lika möjligheter att beviljas statligt stöd för miljöskydd, särskilt avgasreningsteknik som behövs för att uppfylla de utsläppsgränser som fastställs i direktiv 2012/33/EU om ändring av rådets direktiv 1999/32/EG vad gäller svavelhalten i marina bränslen?

Svar från Joaquín Almunia på kommissionens vägnar

(9 september 2013)

I gemenskapens riktlinjer för statligt stöd till skydd för miljön fastställs de regler för kommissionens bedömning av av statligt stöd för förbättrat miljöskydd, däribland beräkningsmetod för stödberättigande kostnader (132).

Mer ingående vägledning ges i vissa specifika situationer, men investeringar i fartyg nämns dock inte särskilt, vare sig om de drivs inom ramen för resebefraktnings‐ eller tidsbefraktningsavtal. Kommissionen tillämpar därför de allmänna reglerna vid sin bedömning av huruvida investeringsstöd till ny avgasrenande teknik inom sjötransportsektorn är förenligt med reglerna.

I detta skede kan kommissionen inte se varför de allmänna reglerna inte skulle tillåta att hänsyn tas till skillnaderna mellan olika sätt att kommersiellt bedriva fartygstransport. Med tanke på ärendets synnerligen tekniska karaktär kommer kommissionen att kunna lämna sin ståndpunkt först efter att ha fått in konkreta förslag om statligt stöd för bedömning.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008786/13

to the Commission

Nils Torvalds (ALDE) and Sari Essayah (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Problems with the method of calculation of eligible costs for state aid for environmental protection (exhaust abatement technology)

Article 82 of the EU guidelines on state aid for environmental protection and the methodology for calculation of eligible costs states the following:

‘Eligible costs must be calculated net of any operating benefits and operating costs related to the extra investment for environmental protection and arising during the first five years of the life of the investment concerned. This means that such operating benefits must be deducted and such operating costs may be added to the extra investment costs.’

This creates difficulties for the shipping industry in a charter party context. The investment cost for new abatement technology always falls on the ship owner but the influence over the fuel consumption and the figures over the lost cargo space vary between different charter parties. In some cases the price of the cargo space is a trade secret known only by the charterer.

Contracts relating to different types of cargoes and vessels for shipping transport can be divided into two main types: 1) voyage charter and 2) time charter.

For a vessel engaged under terms of a voyage charter the model is consistent with the methodology for calculation of eligible costs under the guidelines, since the owner pays for all costs for the voyages, including fuel.

However, for vessels engaged under terms of a time charter, the model calculation is not workable at all. According to the time charter terms, the ship owner will provide and pay for officers and crew and maintain the vessel (including exhaust gas abatement technology), whilst costs related to the voyages (fuel consumption) and the cargo operations (loss of cargo space) will be paid by the charterer, rendering it impossible to set the investment costs in relation to operating benefits and costs.

How will the Commission guarantee that all different types of charter contracts, and thereby all types of shipping have the same opportunities to be granted state aid for environmental protection, particularly exhaust abatement technology necessary to meet emission limits laid down in Directive 2012/33/EU amending Council Directive 1999/32/EC as regards the sulphur content of marine fuels?

Answer given by Mr Almunia on behalf of the Commission

(9 September 2013)

The Environmental Aid Guidelines (EAG) lay down the conditions on the basis of which the Commission will assess state aid to improve the level of environmental protection, including the methodology for calculating the eligible costs (133).

While more detailed guidance is provided in certain specific situations, no specific reference is made to investments in vessels, depending on whether they are operated under voyage charter contracts or time charter contracts. The Commission will therefore apply the general rules when assessing the compatibility of investment aid for new pollution abatement technologies in the maritime transport sector.

At this stage the Commisison does not see why the general rules would not allow it to take into account the differences in the modes of commercial operation of vessels. However, given the highly technical nature of the subject matter, the Commission will be able to specify its position only after having received concrete state aid proposals for its assessment.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008787/13

to the Commission

Kay Swinburne (ECR)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Diffuse water pollution

Recently I have been contacted by a constituent who has alerted me to the damaging effects of diffuse pollution he is witnessing in his local river, where he believes phosphorus is washing out, principally from agricultural activity, into the local river and encouraging the growth of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria).

In order to reassure my constituent that appropriate steps are being taken at European level to reduce such instances of diffuse pollution contributing to the growth of cyanobacteria in our EU waterways and to mitigate the effects of phosphorus discharge on water quality generally, would the Commission be willing to outline the current actions it is taking to address this issue?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC (134)) requires Member States to identify pressures — such as nutrient pollution from farming (Article 5, WFD) — and to put in place measures to address such diffuse pollution (Article 11.3. h) along with other relevant measures in a River Basin Management Plan (RBMP).

The Commission assessed all the adopted RBMPs and identified that there is a need for more concerted action on addressing diffuse pollution from agriculture. This was reflected in the Commission's Blueprint to Safeguard Europe's Water Resources (135) of last November, accompanied by a WFD implementation report, including recommendations to Member States for improvements in addressing diffuse water pollution. The Commission will also continue supporting the expert group on WFD and agriculture under the Common Implementation Strategy (136) also to promote best use of the available and relevant CAP instruments such as cross ‐compliance, greening and rural development measures to address water issues.

Additional action at EU level includes the review of Member States Nitrates Action Programmes under the Nitrates Directive (Directive 91/676/EEC (137)). Although it does not explicitly cover phosphates, measures taken in the context of the obligation to prevent eutrophication have beneficial effects on phosphate pollution. The Commission has also recently consulted on how to treat recycled phosphorus, including manure, as a resource rather than as a pollutant. Greater processing of manure and transport away from saturated zones could help with diffuse pollution (138).

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008789/13

a la Comisión

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Deslocalización de empresas

La empresa Huyck Wagner Spain, perteneciente al fondo de inversión estadounidense Xerium, se ubica en Zizurkil en la comarca de Tolosaldea en Gipuzkoa, País Vasco. Esta planta es una de las cuatro del grupo en la EU y se dedica a la fabricación de telas metálicas transformables para la industria papelera.

La empresa ha presentado un ERE, que afecta al 92 % de sus 81 trabajadores, cerrando la planta productiva y manteniendo solamente la estructura comercial. La producción se trasladará a otras plantas de la UE fuera del País Vasco.

La empresa ha tenido beneficios en los últimos años y ha sido líder de productividad dentro del grupo durante muchos trimestres. Se puede concluir que las razones del cierre no tienen que ver con la productividad de la planta, sino con otros tipos de intereses, por ejemplo las facilidades dadas por la reforma de la legislación laboral española. Nos encontramos ante un caso claro de deslocalización industrial.

Por otra parte, la comarca de Tolosaldea se encuentra en un proceso de desindustrialización y deslocalización de empresas. Tiene una tasa de paro del X % que ha aumentado un Y % en 4 años.

— ¿Ha recibido la empresa Xerium alguna vez fondos de la UE y en qué condiciones?

— ¿Tiene la Comisión la intención de legislar para armonizar la legislación laboral de los Estados miembros con el fin de, entre otros objetivos, evitar el cierre de empresas en algunos Estados de la Unión y el traslado de la producción a otros por resultar más fácil o más barato el proceso de cierre?

— ¿Está considerando la Comisión la posibilidad de establecer políticas de algún tipo para evitar la desindustrialización de Europa, por ejemplo líneas de financiación para la reindustrialización de comarcas y regiones desindustrializadas?

Respuesta del Sr. Andor en nombre de la Comisión

(11 de septiembre de 2013)

A fecha 31 de diciembre de 2012, la empresa a la que se refiere su Señoría no había sido beneficiaria de la financiación concedida por el FEDER en el marco del programa operativo (PO) del País Vasco (139) ni se encontraba entre los beneficiarios del FSE en el PO regional «País Vasco» o en el programa operativo nacional de empleo «Adaptabilidad y Empleo» (140).

La Comisión no considera la posibilidad de adoptar actos legislativos para armonizar la normativa laboral de los Estados miembros con el fin de evitar el cierre de una empresa en un Estado miembro y su transferencia a otro.Tras su Libro Verde de enero de 2012 (141) y la adopción por el Parlamento Europeo el 15 de enero de 2013 del informe Cercas, la Comisión propondrá una Comunicación para la creación de un marco de calidad que englobe la legislación de la UE y las iniciativas que afecten a las reestructuraciones y presentará las mejores prácticas para su aplicación por todas las partes interesadas. Asimismo, el objetivo de la Actualización de la Comunicación sobre política industrial de 2012 es fomentar una industria europea más fuerte (142).

La Comisión no tiene previsto presentar nuevas propuestas de líneas de financiación para la reindustrialización que vayan más allá de los acuerdos políticos del MFP y de los distintos programas e instrumentos sobre los que se asienta. En este contexto, los Estados miembros podrán hacer un uso efectivo de los Fondos Estructurales y de Cohesión para conseguir una «especialización inteligente» de la industria. También podrán utilizar el FSE y el FEAG para prestar apoyo a los trabajadores en sus esfuerzos por adaptarse a las nuevas tendencias.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008789/13

to the Commission

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Company relocation

The company Huyck Wangner Spain belongs to the US Investment Fund Xerium, located in Zizurkil in the administrative area of Tolosaldea in Gipuzkoa, in the Basque Country. This plant is one of four in the group within the European Union and manufactures transformable wire cloth for the paper industry.

The company has presented a workforce reduction plan, affecting 92% of its 81 employees, which entails closing down the production plant and leaving just the commercial structure. Production will be transferred to other plants in the EU, outside of the Basque Country.

The company has made a profit in recent years and has led the group in terms of productivity over numerous quarters. It can therefore be concluded that the reasons for the closure do not relate to the productivity of the plant, but to other types of interests such as the concessions provided for the reform of Spanish labour laws. We find ourselves facing a clear case of industrial relocation.

Moreover, the administrative area of Tolosaldea finds itself in the midst of a process of deindustrialisation and company relocation. It has an unemployment rate of X % that has increased by Y % in four years.

— Has the Xerium company ever received EU funds and under what conditions?

— Does the Commission intend to legislate to harmonise the labour laws of Member States with the aim, inter alia, of preventing the closure of companies in some Member States and the transfer of production to others in order make the closure easier or cheaper?

— Is the Commission considering establishing any policies to prevent the deindustrialisation of Europe, such as lines of funding for the reindustrialisation of deindustrialised administrative areas and regions?

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

The company referred to by the Honourable Member has not benefited from ERDF funding under the operational Programme (OP) of Basque Country (143), and is not among the ESF beneficiaries in the regional OP ‘País Vasco’ or the national employment OP ‘Adaptabilidad y Empleo’, at least till 31 of December 2012 (144).

The Commission is not considering adopting legislation to harmonise the labour laws of Member States with the aim of preventing the closure of a company in a Member State and its transfer to another one.Following its January 2012 Green Paper (145) and the adoption by the European Parliament on 15 January 2013 of the Cercas report, the Commission will propose a communication establishing a Quality Framework that will frame the EU legislation and initiatives relevant to restructuring and will present the best practices to be implemented by all stakeholders. Moreover, the 2012 Industrial Policy Communication Update intends to promote a stronger European industry.  (146)

The Commission is not planning new proposals for lines of funding for reindustrialisation beyond the scope of the politically agreed MFF and the various programmes and instruments underpinning it. In this context, Member States will be able to make effective use of cohesion and structural funds to pursue ‘smart specialization’ in industry. They will also be able to use the ESF and the EGF to support adaptation of workers to new trends.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008790/13

a la Comisión

Alejandro Cercas (S&D)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Protegiendo la salud y seguridad de los trabajadores en la agricultura, ganadería, horticultura y silvicultura

El 11 de junio de 2012, la Comisión publicó en su página web de Empleo, Asuntos Sociales e Inclusión una guía no vinculante para proporcionar información y ejemplos de buenas prácticas referentes a la aplicación de las directivas de salud y seguridad, junto con otros elementos necesarios como explicaciones y ejemplos prácticos sobre los peligros y los riesgos en todas las etapas de los trabajos que se realizan en la agricultura, horticultura y la silvicultura.

La guía se diseñó para ayudar a todas las partes interesadas (a los agricultores en particular), supervisores, empresarios, trabajadores y representantes de los trabajadores entre otros, a hacer efectivas las directivas y para gestionar de una manera más adecuada la prevención de riesgos laborales.

Como podemos leer al final del texto, la versión española de la guía debería estar disponible en formato electrónico ya que la Comisión dispuso: «Esta publicación estará disponible en formato impreso en inglés, francés y alemán y en su formato electrónico en el resto de lenguas oficiales de la UE».

Sin embargo, en la audiencia pública conjunta organizada por la Comisión de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural y la Comisión de Empleo y Asuntos Sociales del Parlamento Europeo titulada «Agricultura: una peligrosa ocupación — Cómo mejorar la salud y seguridad», que tuvo lugar el 20 de marzo de 2013, se pidió a la Comisión una explicación sobre la no disponibilidad de la versión española de la guía, y la Comisión alegó que, debido a restricciones presupuestarias, la traducción sólo se ha dispuesto en inglés, francés y alemán en su formato electrónico.

Respuesta del Sr. Andor en nombre de la Comisión

(9 de septiembre de 2013)

La Comisión confirma a Su Señoría que la guía práctica sobre la protección de la salud y la seguridad de los trabajadores en la agricultura, la ganadería, la horticultura y la silvicultura está disponible, tanto en versión impresa como en formato electrónico, en alemán, francés e inglés.

A pesar de que la Comisión indicó, tanto en la actual versión impresa como en su sitio web (147), que publicaría versiones electrónicas de esta guía en todas las lenguas oficiales, esto no se ha llevado a cabo debido a diversas dificultades. La información a este respecto en el sitio web de la Comisión va a ser corregida.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008790/13

to the Commission

Alejandro Cercas (S&D)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Protecting the health and safety of workers in agriculture, livestock farming, horticulture and forestry

On 11 June 2012, the Commission published on the website of the Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion a non-binding guide providing information and examples of good practice in connection with the implementation of health and safety directives, together with other necessary information such as explanations and practical examples of the dangers and risks encountered during all stages of farming, horticulture and forestry work.

The guide was designed to help all stakeholders, in particular, farmers, supervisors, employers, workers and their representatives, as well as others, to implement directives and to properly manage occupational risk prevention.

As stated at the end of the text, the Spanish version of the guide should be available in electronic format as the Commission confirmed: ‘This publication will be available in printed format in English, French and German and in electronic format in all other EU official languages’.

However, at the joint public hearing organised by Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs entitled ‘Farming: a hazardous occupation — how to improve health and safety’, which took place on 20 March 2013, the Commission was asked to explain why no Spanish version of the guide was available, to which the Commission replied that, due to budgetary constraints, only the English, French and German translations had been prepared in electronic format.

Answer given by Mr Andor on behalf of the Commission

(9 September 2013)

The Commission would like to confirm to the Honourable Member that the practical Guide entitled ‘Protecting health and safety of workers in agriculture, livestock farming, horticulture and forestry’ is available, both in printed version and in electronic format, in English, French and German.

Although the Commission indicated that electronic versions of the guide would be made available in all official languages both in the current published print version and also in the Commission website (148), -- it has not done it due to various constraints. Information on this issue will be corrected on the Commission's website.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008792/13

a la Comisión

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Negación de visado

Desde el pasado 31 de mayo al 4 junio se celebró en Barcelona el Congreso Europeo de Anestesiología.

Según parece, el Gobierno español denegó el visado de entrada a 20 médicos kosovares que pretendían asistir al Congreso. La embajada española en Skopie (Antigua República Yugoslava de Macedonia) argumentó que España no reconoce a Kosovo, por lo que no permite la entrada de sus ciudadanos salvo en casos extraordinarios.

Respuesta de la Sra. Malmström en nombre de la Comisión

(27 de septiembre de 2013)

La Comisión ha sido informada de los dificultades que pueden encontrar los nacionales de Kosovo (149) al solicitar un visado Schengen en la sede de la embajada de España en Skopie, debido al hecho de que España no reconoce a Kosovo. La Comisión ha instado a las autoridades españolas a facilitar información detallada sobre las prácticas de la embajada de España en Skopie a este respecto. Esta información permitirá a la Comisión evaluar la compatibilidad de dichas prácticas con el Derecho de la UE y, en particular, con el Código de visados.

Una vez que la Comisión haya recibido y analizado la información solicitada, informará a Su Señoría de los resultados de ese análisis.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008792/13

to the Commission

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Refusal of visas

The European Congress of Anaesthesiology took place in Barcelona from 31 May to 4 June 2013.

The Spanish Government apparently refused to issue entry visas to 20 Kosovan doctors planning to attend the congress. The Spanish embassy in Skopje (in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) maintained that Spain did not recognise Kosovo, so its citizens were not permitted to enter Spain except in exceptional circumstances.

Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission

(27 September 2013)

The Commission has been informed about difficulties Kosovo (150) nationals might face when applying for a Schengen visa at the Spanish embassy in Skopje, as a result of Spain not recognising Kosovo. The Commission has invited the Spanish authorities to provide detailed information about the practice of the Spanish embassy in Skopje in this regard; this information would enable the Commission to assess the compatibility of that practice with EC law and in particular with the Visa Code.

Once the Commission has received and analysed the information requested, it will inform the Honourable Member about the results of this analysis.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008793/13

a la Comisión

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Calidad del agua potable

El pantano de Oiola, situado en Bizkaia (País Vasco — España), se utiliza para la captación de agua de consumo humano. En la actualidad abastece a más de 100 000 personas.

En 2008, el Gobierno Vasco detectó una elevada presencia de isómeros de HCH-lindano en las aguas ya tratadas y en el pantano. Se hizo un estudio y se estableció un protocolo, que permite un límite de 25 ng/l del total de isómeros de HCH y 20 ng/l para cada isómero, que no aplica el R.D. 60/2011 sobre calidad ambiental de aguas.

Las autoridades vascas no demuestran interés en resolver la situación y, además, el control del HCH es deficiente: no medición y contabilización de resultados por debajo de 10 ng/l de HCH por isómero, laboratorio no acreditado para medir algunos isómeros de HCH, no se analiza la presencia de HCH en biota y sedimentos, ningún plan de acción para la eliminación del HCH. falta de Registro de Zonas de Protección de agua …

Todo ello puede implicar el incumplimiento de varias Directivas: 1998/83/CE, 2000/60/CE, 2008/105/CE y 2009/90/CE.

¿Considera la Comisión que se está garantizando adecuadamente la calidad del agua de consumo humano con que se abastecen las poblaciones mencionadas?

¿Considera la Comisión que las medidas de control aplicadas en las aguas del embalse de Oiola cumplen correctamente la normativa europea?

¿Considera la Comisión que el embalse de Oiola cumple los requisitos para ser considerado punto de captación de aguas destinadas a la producción de agua de consumo humano?

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008794/13

a la Comisión

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Calidad del agua potable y transposición de directivas europeas

El pantano de Oiola está situado en Bizkaia (País Vasco — España) y se utiliza como punto de captación de aguas para producción de agua de consumo humano.

En 2008, el Gobierno Vasco detectó una elevada presencia de isómeros de HCH-lindano en las aguas ya tratadas. Concretamente: 154 ng/l Alfa-HCH; 26 ng/l Beta-HCH y 13 ng/l Delta-HCH, con un total de 193 ng/l HCH. En la misma fecha, en las aguas del pantano se apreciaron máximos de casi 500 ng/l HCH.

Se realizaron varios estudios que no fueron capaces de determinar el foco de contaminación de HCH, pero que llegaron a la conclusión de que las aguas contaminadas procedían del arroyo Gorriga y se incrementaban en caso de fuertes lluvias.

En base a ello, se dictó un protocolo por el que se establecía como límite para usar las aguas del embalse un caudal máximo de 50 l/s en el arroyo y un límite de 25 ng/l del total de isómeros de HCH en esas aguas y de 20 ng/l para cada isómero.

El Gobierno Vasco aplica los límites establecidos en el R.D. 140/2003 por el que se establecen los criterios sanitarios de la calidad del agua de consumo humano, que recogen límites para plaguicidas individuales (100 ng/l) y totales (500 ng/l), sin una referencia expresa al HCH. Dicha normativa no ha sido actualizada para responder a las nuevas exigencias derivadas de la legislación europea.

Todo ello puede implicar el incumplimiento de las Directivas 98/83/CE, 2000/60/CE, 2008/105/CE y 2009/90/CE.

¿Considera la Comisión que se ha producido una correcta transposición y aplicación de las Directivas europeas relativas a la calidad del agua de consumo humano?

Respuesta conjunta del Sr. Potočnik en nombre de la Comisión

(23 de septiembre de 2013)

Por lo que se refiere a los plaguicidas, la Directiva 98/83/CE, relativa a la calidad de las aguas destinadas al consumo humano (151) (Directiva del Agua Potable), establece un valor paramétrico para cada uno de los plaguicidas: 0,1 μ/l (excluidos cuatro plagicidas organoclorados, cuyo límite es de 0,03 μ/l) y otro valor paramétrico para el total plaguicidas: 5 μ/l.

Estos niveles debían comenzar a cumplirse a partir del 25 de diciembre de 2003 (152). Así pues, en virtud de la Directiva 98/83/CE, los Estados miembros tienen ya la obligación general de aplicar las normas de calidad mínimas establecidas en la Directiva (artículo 5) y de emprender las medidas correctivas necesarias para garantizar que el agua destinada al consumo humano no constituya un peligro potencial para la salud humana (artículo 8).

En la actualidad, la exposición del agua potable a los plaguicidas está controlada, asimismo, por el Reglamento (CE) n° 1107/2009, relativo a la comercialización de productos fitosanitarios (153), y por la Directiva 2009/128/CE, sobre el uso sostenible de los plaguicidas (154).

Además, el HCH se regula también en el marco de la Directiva 2008/105/CE (155) (Directiva de Sustancias Prioritarias), que exige la aplicación de una media anual de 0,02 μg/l. No obstante, los requisitos que impone esa Directiva sólo serán obligatorios a partir del 22 de diciembre de 2015.

Pese a no poder detectar ninguna infracción de la normativa de la UE a partir de la información facilitada, la Comisión se pondrá en contacto con las autoridades competentes a fin de obtener una visión más clara de la situación existente en la provincia de Bizkaia.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008793/13

to the Commission

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Drinking water quality

The Oiola Reservoir, in Bizkaia province (Basque Country — Spain), is used for the catchment of water for human consumption. It currently supplies water to more than 100 000 people.

In 2008, the Basque Government detected a high level of HCH/Lindane isomers in already treated waters and in the reservoir. A study was made and a protocol set, permitting a limit of 25 ng/l on the total of HCH isomers and 20 ng/l for each isomer, which is not applied by Royal Decree 60/2011 on the environmental quality of waters.

The Basque authorities show no interest in resolving the situation and HCH control is poor: no measurement and accounting for results below 10 ng/l of HCH per isomer; a non‐accredited laboratory measures some HCH isomers; no analysis of the presence of HCH in biota and sediments; no action plan for eliminating HCH; no register of water protection zones, etc.

This may involve the infringement of several Directives: 1998/83/EC, 2000/60/EC, 2008/105/EC and 2009/90/EC.

Does the Commission consider that the quality of drinking water for supply to the population mentioned is being adequately guaranteed?

Does the Commission consider the control measures applied to the waters of the Oiola Reservoir to meet European standards correctly?

Does the Commission believe that the Oiola Reservoir meets the requirements to be considered a catchment point for waters used to produce water for human consumption?

Question for written answer E-008794/13

to the Commission

Iñaki Irazabalbeitia Fernández (Verts/ALE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Drinking water quality and transposition of European directives

The Oiola Reservoir, in Bizkaia province (Basque Country — Spain), is a catchment point for waters used to produce water for human consumption.

In 2008, the Basque Government detected a high level of HCH/Lindane isomers in already treated waters. Specifically: 154 ng/l alpha-HCH; 26 ng/l beta-HCH and 13 ng/l delta-HCH, giving a total of 193 ng/l HCH. On the same date, the reservoir’s waters showed maximum levels of almost 500 ng/l HCH.

Several studies conducted were unable to determine the source of HCH contamination, but concluded that the contaminated waters came from the Gorriga stream and increased with heavy rain.

Based on this, a protocol was issued setting a limit on the use of waters from the reservoir to a maximum flow of 50 l/s in the stream and a limit of 25 ng/l on the total of HCH isomers in these waters and 20 ng/l for each isomer.

The Basque Government applies the limits laid down in Royal Decree 140/2003, which establishes health criteria for drinking water quality, including limits on pesticides — both individual (100 ng/l) and total (500 ng/l) — without express reference to HCH. This legislation has not been updated to meet new requirements under European legislation.

This may involve the infringement of Directives 98/83/EC, 2000/60/EC, 2008/105/EC and 2009/90/EC.

Does the Commission consider the European directives on water quality for human consumption to have been correctly transposed and implemented?

Joint answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(23 September 2013)

As regards pesticides, the Drinking Water Directive 98/83/EC (156) sets out a parametric value for individual pesticides of 0.1 μ/l (except for 4 organochloride pesticides for which the limit is 0.03μ/l) and for total pesticides of 0.5 μ/l.

These standards were to be complied with starting 25 December 2003 (157). Under this directive, Member States have the general obligation to apply the minimum standards set out in the directive (Article 5) and to undertake remedial measures in order to ensure that the water intended for human consumption does not constitute a potential danger to human health (Article 8).

Currently, exposure to pesticides in drinking water is also controlled by Regulation 1107/2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market (158) and EU Directive 2009/128/EC on Sustainable Use of pesticides (159).

In addition, HCH is relevant under the Priority Substances Directive 2008/105/EC (160), which requires an annual average of 0.02 μg/l to be applied. However, the requirements of this directive are to be met only by 22 December 2015.

From the information provided, the Commission cannot at this point detect a breach of EU legislation. However, in order to get a clearer picture of the situation in the Province of Bizkaia, the Commission will contact the competent authorities.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008795/13

a la Comisión

Francisco Sosa Wagner (NI)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Integración de los mercados de deuda privada

En los últimos días hemos conocido la efectiva integración de los sistemas de negociación de las bolsas de Tokio y Osaka, lo que convierte a ese mercado en uno de los más voluminosos del mundo. Una operación lógica porque la tendencia económica ha sido la sucesiva integración de los mercados de valores para garantizar una mejor protección de los inversores, unos menores costes de las empresas y una formación de precios más transparentes.

Sin embargo, en Europa se mantiene la fragmentación de muchos mercados de valores, por ejemplo, con relación a las emisiones de deuda privada. Es fácil comprobar la relación de empresas europeas que registran sus emisiones, por ejemplo, en los mercados de Luxemburgo o Irlanda. Lo que a su vez genera otras desventajas, como incrementar una competencia desleal entre los sistemas tributarios de los Estados miembros de la Unión o la distinta protección a los inversores.

De ahí que me interese conocer cuál es la opinión de la Comisión sobre esta materia. En concreto:

Respuesta del Sr. Barnier en nombre de la Comisión

(4 de septiembre de 2013)

La integración de los mercados es, de hecho, beneficiosa al generar economías de escala, por lo que debería facilitar una negociación menos costosa y más eficiente. Uno de los principales objetivos de la Directiva sobre los mercados de instrumentos financieros (Directiva 2004/39/CE, DMIF) era reducir los costes de negociación, fomentando la competencia entre los centros de negociación y facilitar la negociación paneuropea de instrumentos financieros. La evaluación de impacto adjunta a las propuestas de revisión de la DMIF de la Comisión concluye que los costes de las operaciones han disminuido realmente y que los mercados están más integrados (161).

A pesar de estos avances, hace falta seguir trabajando, especialmente en el contexto de la crisis financiera y los acuerdos alcanzados en el G-20 para abordar las carencias globales de la legislación vigente sobre servicios financieros. La DMIF incluye una serie de disposiciones que tratan el problema de la fragmentación, y su revisión reforzará estas disposiciones. En especial, la transparencia de las operaciones es necesaria para proporcionar a los inversores información sobre posibles oportunidades de negociación, facilitar la formación de precios y ayudar a las empresas a prestar los mejores servicios a sus clientes. La DMIF revisada también abordará los posibles efectos negativos de la fragmentación de los mercados y la liquidez al facilitar información consolidada que permita a los usuarios comparar oportunidades de negociación y resultados en todos los centros de negociación.

Esta legislación revisada garantizará que toda la negociación organizada se lleve a cabo en centros regulados, con plena transparencia comercial en relación con todos los instrumentos financieros. También resolverá la fragmentación del mercado mediante la plena armonización de las normas en toda la UE.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008795/13

to the Commission

Francisco Sosa Wagner (NI)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Integration of private debt markets

In the last few days, we have learned of the effective integration of the Tokyo and Osaka exchange trading systems, making this market one of the world’s biggest in terms of volume. This was a logical operation, given the economic trend to integrate securities markets successively in order to guarantee greater protection for investors, lower costs for companies and more transparent price formation.

However, fragmentation continues in many European securities markets, such as, for example, in relation to private debt issues. It is easy to check the list of European companies reporting their issues, for example, on the Irish and Luxembourg markets. This, in turn, generates other disadvantages, such as increasing unfair competition between the tax systems of EU Member States and different levels of protection for investors.

Hence, I am interested to know the Commission’s opinion on the matter. In particular:

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(4 September 2013)

Market integration is indeed beneficial since it creates economies of scale and should lead to less costly and more efficient trading. One of the main objectives of the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID, 2004/39/EC) was to reduce trading costs by promoting competition between trading venues and facilitating the trading of financial instruments on a pan-European basis. The impact assessment accompanying the Commission’s proposals for the review of MiFID concludes that transaction costs have indeed decreased and that market integration has increased (162).

Despite this progress, further action is needed, notably in the context of the financial crisis and the agreements reached at G20 level in terms of addressing the global shortcomings in current financial services legislation. MiFID contains a number of provisions which address the issue of fragmentation, and the review of MiFID will strengthen these provisions. Notably, trade transparency is necessary to provide investors with access to information about potential trading opportunities, to facilitate price formation and assist firms in providing best execution to their clients. The revised MiFID should also address the potential adverse effect of fragmentation of markets and liquidity by providing consolidated information that enables users to compare trading opportunities and results across trading venues.

The revised MiFID legislation will ensure that all organised trading is carried out on regulated venues, providing for full trade transparency regarding all financial instruments. It also addresses market fragmentation by fully harmonising data standards across the EU.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008796/13

a la Comisión

Francisco Sosa Wagner (NI)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Financiación europea de las vías de comunicación

El Tribunal de Cuentas Europeo acaba de publicar un Informe sobre las diferencias significativas de los costes en los proyectos de carreteras financiados por la Unión Europea. En concreto, dentro del periodo 2000-2013, en el que se aportaron cerca de 65 000 millones de euros a través del FEDER y del Fondo de cohesión, el citado Tribunal ha supervisado veinticuatro proyectos en distintos países, cuya financiación conjunta alcanzó los tres mil millones de euros.

Varias son las conclusiones que recoge este Informe ante las diferencias de precios que resultan entre dichas obras públicas. En ocasiones, a mi entender, son diferencias lógicas por la peculiar situación real de cada trazado y las infraestructuras realizadas en el mismo (como los túneles o viaductos).

En todo caso, a raíz de las recomendaciones formuladas por el Tribunal de Cuentas, me interesa conocer la opinión de la Comisión sobre los siguientes aspectos:

Respuesta del Sr. Hahn en nombre de la Comisión

(5 de septiembre de 2013)

Las Directivas de la UE establecen que, en el caso de las ofertas que parezcan anormalmente bajas, la entidad adjudicadora debe solicitar por escrito las precisiones oportunas sobre la composición de la oferta antes de poder rechazar dichas ofertas.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008796/13

to the Commission

Francisco Sosa Wagner (NI)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: European financing of transport routes

The European Court of Auditors has just published a report on significant differences in the cost of road projects financed by the European Union. Specifically, in the period 2000-2013, during which some EUR 65 000 million were provided from the EAFRD and the Cohesion Fund, the Court supervised 24 projects in different countries with total funding of EUR 3 billion.

The report draws several conclusions regarding price disparities in these public works. In my opinion, some are logical differences resulting from the peculiarities of each route and the infrastructure works carried out on them (such as tunnels and viaducts).

In any case, in light of the recommendations made by the Court of Auditors, I would like to know the Commission’s opinions on the following:

Answer given by Mr Hahn on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

The EU Directives provide, in case of tenders appearing to be abnormally low, that the contracting entity should request in writing details on the constituent elements of the tender, before it may reject those tenders.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008797/13

a la Comisión

Francisco Sosa Wagner (NI)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: Difusión de análisis comparativos de los alimentos

Una de las políticas más exitosas de la Unión Europea ha sido la protección a los consumidores. Resulta innecesario recordar a la Comisión las numerosas disposiciones que a lo largo de estos años se han aprobado para garantizar mínimamente sus derechos básicos. En el mismo sentido, las instituciones europeas han contribuido a facilitar la máxima información cuando se han producido situaciones de alarma debido a la comercialización de productos, de manera especial, ante riesgos alimentarios.

Las Cortes Generales de España acaban de aprobar una nueva ley que regula múltiples aspectos de lo que comúnmente se denomina «cadena alimentaria» para garantizar un adecuado funcionamiento de la misma. Junto a la regulación de las relaciones comerciales de los distintos interesados, los contratos comerciales, el régimen de las marcas, las buenas prácticas comerciales, etc., el texto incluye una disposición adicional (en concreto, la cuarta) que anuncia la regulación de un procedimiento para admitir la difusión de los estudios y análisis comparativos sobre los productos alimentarios.

Ante la trascendencia que puede tener esta regulación:

¿Podría señalar la Comisión si no considera que la limitación de la difusión de información alimentaria es incompatible con la normativa europea?

¿No cree la Comisión que la existencia de análisis comparativos realizados por las asociaciones de consumidores y usuarios garantiza mejor los derechos de los consumidores?

Respuesta del Sr. Borg en nombre de la Comisión

(30 de agosto de 2013)

La Comisión remite a Su Señoría a la respuesta dada a la pregunta escrita E-006692/13 (163).

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008797/13

to the Commission

Francisco Sosa Wagner (NI)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Dissemination of comparative food analyses

One of the European Union’s most successful policies has been consumer protection. The Commission does not need to be reminded of the many provisions approved over the years to ensure consumers’ basic rights. The European institutions have also helped to provide maximum information in situations of alarm arising from the marketing of products, especially in cases of food risks.

The Spanish Parliament and Senate have just passed a new law regulating many aspects of what is commonly known as the ‘food chain’ to ensure that it operates correctly. As well as regulating commercial relations of the various stakeholders, commercial contracts, the brands system, good commercial practices, etc., the text includes an additional provision (specifically, the fourth) announcing regulation of a procedure to allow the dissemination of comparative studies and analyses of food products.

Given the importance that this regulation may have:

Does the Commission not consider limiting the dissemination of food information to be incompatible with European legislation?

Does the Commission not believe that comparative analyses, undertaken by consumer and user associations, provide better guarantees for consumer rights?

Answer given by Mr Borg on behalf of the Commission

(30 August 2013)

The Commission would like to refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E‐006692/13.  (164)

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-008798/13

an die Kommission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(17. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Weiteres Vorgehen in Griechenland

„Griechenland braucht wieder Geld“ lautet eine aktuelle Schlagzeile in den Medien; weiter heißt es, die EU-Kommission habe eine neue Finanzlücke in Milliardenhöhe festgestellt.

„Finanzspritze“ für Griechenland vor den europäischen Steuerzahlern rechtfertigen?

Antwort von Herrn Rehn im Namen der Kommission

(28. August 2013)

Die Behauptung, Griechenland benötige für die Durchführung seines Anpassungsprogramms eine weitere „Finanzspritze“, ist unzutreffend. Die Finanzierung des Programms ist bis Ende Juli 2014 in vollem Umfang gesichert. Dass bis Ende 2014 eine relativ geringe Finanzierungslücke im Umfang von 3,8 Mrd. EUR verbleibt, ist keine neue Erkenntnis, wie aus Tabelle 9 des Compliance-Berichts (165) hervorgeht, den die Europäische Kommission im Anschluss an die dritte Überprüfungsmission veröffentlicht hat. Es kommen vielerlei Lösungen in Betracht, um die Finanzierungslücke zu schließen. Zur genauen Größe der Lücke werden anlässlich der im Herbst anstehenden nächsten Überprüfung erneute Schätzungen angestellt.

Im November 2012 erklärte die Eurogruppe, dass die Mitgliedstaaten des Euro-Währungsgebiets, falls notwendig, weitere Maßnahmen und Hilfen in Betracht ziehen werden, sobald Griechenland einen jährlichen Primärüberschuss erzielt und sämtliche im Programm festgelegten Bedingungen vollständig erfüllt. Ziel ist es, Griechenland das Erreichen des angestrebten Schuldenstandsziels zu ermöglichen.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008798/13

to the Commission

Angelika Werthmann (ALDE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Further action in Greece

‘Greece needs more money’ is a headline currently appearing in the media. It is also reported that the Commission has identified a new financial gap amounting to billions.

‘injection of finance’ for Greece to European taxpayers?

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(28 August 2013)

It is incorrect to say that the adjustment programme for Greece needs a new ‘injection of finance’. The programme is fully financed until the end of July 2014. It is not a new fact that there is a relatively small financing gap of EUR 3.8 billion until the end of 2014, as indicated in Table 9 of the compliance report (166) published by the European Commission following the 3rd review mission. There are multiple ways to fill this financing gap. Its precise size will be estimated again at the occasion of the next review planned for the autumn.

In November 2012, the Eurogroup stated that euro area Member States will consider further measures and assistance, if necessary, when Greece reaches an annual primary surplus, conditional on full implementation of all conditions contained in the programme in order to ensure that Greece can reach the targeted debt-to-GDP ratio.

(Ελληνική έκδοση)

Ερώτηση με αίτημα γραπτής απάντησης E-008799/13

προς την Επιτροπή

Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou (PPE)

(17 Ιουλίου 2013)

Θέμα: Περιοριστικά μέτρα στην Κύπρο και αντίκτυπός τους

Στο πλαίσιο υλοποίησης του προγράμματος (167) οικονομικής στήριξης της Κυπριακής Δημοκρατίας, αλλά και δεδομένων των κινδύνων για την έλλειψη ρευστότητας και εκροής των καταθέσεων, εφαρμόζονται προσωρινά περιοριστικά μέτρα στις συναλλαγές, τα οποία σύμφωνα με το τελευταίο σχετικό διάταγμα (168), προβλέπουν, μεταξύ άλλων, μέγιστο ποσό αναλήψεων και απαγόρευση εξαργύρωσης επιταγών. Παρά τη λογική που χαρακτηρίζει τη λήψη των μέτρων αυτών, είναι ξεκάθαρο πως διαμορφώνονται συνθήκες άνισες για τους κύπριους πολίτες έναντι των άλλων ευρωπαίων πολιτών, επηρεάζοντας άμεσα και καθοριστικά την πραγματική οικονομία, την κατανάλωση και τη ζήτηση. Για το λόγο αυτό ερωτάται η Επιτροπή:

Απάντηση του κ. Rehn εξ ονόματος της Επιτροπής

(5 Σεπτεμβρίου 2013)

Οι κυπριακές αρχές, σε συνεργασία με την Επιτροπή, την ΕΚΤ και το ΔΝΤ, αξιολογούν σε συνεχή βάση, στο πλαίσιο της οικονομίας της Κύπρου, την ανάγκη ελέγχων κεφαλαίων, τις συνέπειές τους και το επίπεδό τους. Από την θέσπιση των ελέγχων τον Μάρτιο του 2013, έχουν χαλαρώσει ή τροποποιηθεί διάφορα περιοριστικά μέτρα ώστε να προσαρμοστούν και να περισταλούν οι επιπτώσεις από τους περιορισμούς στην κυπριακή οικονομία και τούτο θα συνεχιστεί για όσο διάστημα εφαρμόζονται οι έλεγχοι. Οι έλεγχοι θα διενεργούνται μόνο για το διάστημα που θα κριθεί απολύτως αναγκαίο.

Η διαφοροποιημένη μεταχείριση των καταθετών στην Κύπρο θεωρείται δικαιολογημένη λόγω του σημαντικού κινδύνου ανεξέλεγκτης εκροής καταθέσεων, η οποία θα οδηγούσε στην κατάρρευση των πιστωτικών ιδρυμάτων στην Κύπρο και σε άμεσο κίνδυνο πλήρους αποσταθεροποίησης του χρηματοπιστωτικού συστήματος της Κύπρου. Τα εν λόγω μέτρα έχουν εφαρμοστεί χωρίς διακρίσεις, αναλογικά και η εφαρμογή τους θα συνεχιστεί για το συντομότερο δυνατό χρονικό διάστημα, όπως απαιτείται από τους κανόνες της ΕΕ σχετικά με την ελεύθερη κυκλοφορία των κεφαλαίων.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008799/13

to the Commission

Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Restrictive measures in Cyprus and their impact

Within the framework of the programme (169) of economic support for the Republic of Cyprus and given the lack of liquidity and deposit flight risks, provisional currency restrictions are being applied which, according to the last decree issued (170), make provision, among other things, for maximum withdrawals and no cashing of cheques. Despite the logic behind these measures, it is clear that they are creating inequalities between Cypriot citizens and other European citizens and are having a direct and decisive impact on the real economy, consumption and demand. In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Answer given by Mr Rehn on behalf of the Commission

(5 September 2013)

The Cypriot authorities, in consultation with the Commission, ECB and IMF, are constantly assessing the need for, impact of and level of capital controls within the Cypriot economy. Since the introduction of the controls in March 2013, various restrictive measures have been relaxed or modified to tailor and limit the impact of the restrictions upon the Cypriot economy and this will continue to occur for as long as the controls are in place. The controls will be in place only as long as is strictly necessary.

The differential treatment of depositors in Cyprus appears justified by the significant risk of uncontrollable outflow of deposits which would lead to the collapse of the credit institutions within Cyprus and to the immediate risk of complete destabilisation of Cyprus’ financial system. These measures have been applied non-discriminatorily, proportionally and should be applied for the shortest time possible, as required by the EU rules on the free circulation of capitals.

(Version française)

Question avec demande de réponse écrite E-008800/13

à la Commission

Jean-Pierre Audy (PPE), Françoise Grossetête (PPE) et Gaston Franco (PPE)

(17 juillet 2013)

Objet: REACH — Menace sur les entreprises du secteur du traitement de surface

Le règlement REACH va conduire in fine à l'interdiction dans l'Union européenne des procédés de traitement au Chrome VI. Or, aujourd'hui l'Union autorise l'importation des pièces chromées qui ne présentent pas de toxicité particulière, ce qui, dans certaines régions, entraîne la délocalisation hors d'Europe des sous-traitants et pourrait conduire dans un futur proche à la délocalisation de l'ensemble de la filière (conception et fabrication) afin de limiter les coûts de transports.

Bien que REACH prévoie un mécanisme d'autorisation d'utilisation de la substance, celui-ci n'est que temporaire et difficilement accessible aux PME du fait des coûts qu'il génère. Quant aux solutions de substitution, elles ne sont pas toujours possibles, comme c'est le cas pour le secteur de l'aéronautique, ou lorsque cela est possible, leur mise au point est très coûteuse et nécessite des moyens de recherche et développement (R&D) dont ne disposent pas obligatoirement les PME sous-traitantes.

C'est dans ce contexte que les députés européens soussignés ont l'honneur de demander à la Commission si l'impact socio-économique de la mise en place de la réglementation européenne REACH a bien été pris en compte s'agissant du secteur des traitements de surface et si des mesures d'accompagnement ont été prévues pour faciliter la transition?

Plus largement, la Commission a-t-elle évalué l'impact de la réglementation REACH sur les délocalisations des entreprises européennes et les problèmes de concurrence déloyale?

Réponse donnée par M. Tajani au nom de la Commission

(3 octobre 2013)

La Commission est consciente des inquiétudes du secteur du traitement de surfaces, relayées par d'autres opérateurs du secteur qui utilisent des composés du chrome (VI), quant à l'éventuelle disparition de cette activité économique dans l'UE et son remplacement par des articles importés de pays tiers.

L'obligation d'obtenir une autorisation REACH n'équivaut pas à une interdiction des processus de traitement à base de chrome (VI), mais permet la poursuite de l'utilisation de certains composés du chrome hexavalent après la date d'expiration, pour autant qu'une autorisation ait été accordée pour chaque usage spécifique.

Une autorisation peut être accordée si le demandeur apporte la preuve que les risques dus à l'utilisation de la substance sont largement compensés par les avantages socio-économiques, et qu'il n'existe pas de substances ou de technologies de substitution appropriées pour cette utilisation (171).

REACH ne suppose pas que chaque entreprise introduise individuellement une demande d'autorisation d'utilisation d'une substance soumise à autorisation. Un utilisateur en aval peut être couvert par une telle autorisation accordée à un opérateur situé en amont dans sa chaîne d'approvisionnement. En outre, la Commission a connaissance de l'existence de consortiums mis en place par plusieurs opérateurs dans la chaîne d'approvisionnement afin de coordonner et faciliter l'établissement de demandes d'autorisation. De telles possibilités réduisent l'impact des exigences en matière d'autorisation sur les utilisateurs en aval et peuvent être particulièrement avantageuses pour les PME.

Les délais d'introduction de demandes d'autorisation (date limite pour l'introduction des demandes), pour les composés du chrome (VI) tiennent compte du temps nécessaire pour établir ces demandes dans la chaîne logistique complexe concernée par l'utilisation de ces substances.

Conformément à REACH, l'impact social et économique, y compris sur la compétitivité d'un secteur ou sur l'emploi, est pris en compte lors de l'évaluation de chaque demande d'autorisation.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008800/13

to the Commission

Jean-Pierre Audy (PPE), Françoise Grossetête (PPE) and Gaston Franco (PPE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: REACH — Threat to firms in the surface treatment sector

The REACH regulation will ultimately lead to an EU-wide ban on treatment processes employing Chromium VI. However, the European Union does currently allow the import of chrome-plated parts which do not exhibit any particular toxicity. In some parts of the EU, this is leading to the relocation of subcontractors outside Europe and could, in the near future, result in the entire industry (including its design and manufacturing sectors) being relocated to limit transport costs.

Although REACH provides for an authorisation mechanism for use of the substance, this is only temporary and is difficult for SMEs to make use of due to the costs involved. As for replacement solutions, these are not always possible, as in the case of the aircraft industry, or where such solutions are possible, they are very costly to develop and require research and development (R&D) which is not necessarily within the means of subcontracting SMEs.

It is in this context that the undersigned Members of the European Parliament have the honour to ask the Commission whether the social and economic impact of the implementation of the EU regulation REACH has in fact been considered as regards the surface treatments sector and whether support measures have been planned to facilitate transition?

More generally, has the Commission assessed the impact of the REACH regulation on the relocation of EU businesses and the problems of unfair competition?

Answer given by Mr Tajani on behalf of the Commission

(3 October 2013)

The Commission is aware about the concerns of the surface treatment sector, also raised by other operators in the sector using chromium VI compounds that this economic activity might disappear from the EU and be replaced by imported articles from third countries.

The REACH authorisation requirement does not constitute a ban of treatment processes employing chromium VI, but allows for the possibility of continuing using certain chromium VI compounds after the sunset date, provided that an authorisation has been granted for each specific use.

An authorisation may be granted if the application demonstrates that the risks from the use of the substance are outweighed by the socioeconomic benefits, and that there are no suitable alternative substances or technologies for that use (172).

REACH does not require each particular company to apply for an individual authorisation to be able to use a substance subject to authorisation. A downstream user may be covered by the authorisation granted to an actor up his supply chain for that use. Moreover, the Commission is aware of consortia set up by various actors in the supply chain to coordinate and facilitate preparations of applications for authorisation. Such possibilities reduce the impact of the authorisation requirements on downstream users and may be particularly advantageous for SMEs.

The deadlines to apply for authorisation (Latest Application Date) for chromium VI compounds take into account the time needed to prepare the applications in the complex supply chain that involves the use of these substances.

According to REACH, the social and economic impact, including on the competitiveness of a sector or on employment, is considered when assessing the individual applications for authorisation.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008801/13

alla Commissione

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Condanna all'ergastolo per un cittadino pakistano di religione cristiana

Il 13 luglio scorso è stata emessa dal tribunale di Gojra la sentenza di ergastolo per Sajjad Masih, cittadino pakistano di religione cristiana del distretto di Pakpattan. Nel dicembre 2011, il ragazzo era stato arrestato con l'accusa di aver violato la legge antiblasfemia per aver inviato messaggi telefonici con testi ritenuti offensivi ad alcuni religiosi musulmani. Contro Masih, in questi mesi, hanno testimoniato vari religiosi della zona. Durante le indagini, gli inquirenti hanno ricostruito la vicenda nata dalla lite tra Sajjad Masih e una parente, Roma. Avendo quest'ultima rifiutato la sua proposta di matrimonio, il giovane si sarebbe vendicato inviando messaggi blasfemi con una scheda SIM intestata alla ragazza. Masih dovrà inoltre pagare una multa di 200 000 rupie (circa 2 000 euro), così come stabilito dal tribunale di Toba Tek Singh.

— È la Commissione a conoscenza dei fatti?

— Con riferimento all'episodio avvenuto lo scorso anno a Rimsha Masih, falsamente accusata di blasfemia e vittima di un complotto che voleva sottrarre alla sua famiglia una proprietà terriera, ritiene la Commissione opportuno richiamare l'attenzione della comunità internazionale sull'utilizzo della legge antiblasfemia da parte dei paesi islamici come strumento per colpire le minoranze religiose?

— Può la Commissione far sapere lo stato di attuazione del quadro strategico e del piano d'azione dell'Unione Europea in materia di diritti umani e democrazia adottato il 25 giugno 2012 dal Consiglio «Affari esteri»?

— Con riferimento alla risoluzione del Parlamento europeo del 20 maggio 2010 sulla libertà religiosa in Pakistan (GU C 161 E del 31.5.2011 pag.147), in particolare ai paragrafi 7, 8, 9 e 10, ritiene la Commissione che il governo pakistano abbia accolto l'invito della comunità europea in merito alla questione della tutela delle minoranze religiose nel paese?

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

(6 settembre 2013)

L'Alta Rappresentante/Vicepresidente è a conoscenza del caso di Sajjad Masih. Questo episodio ci ricorda che le leggi sulla blasfemia si prestano ad abusi. L'UE è impegnata in un dialogo regolare con il Pakistan in materia di diritti umani e ha espresso chiaramente il suo parere in merito alle leggi sulla blasfemia (cfr. le risposte alle interrogazioni E-10472/2012 e E‐004204/2012).

Il piano d'azione sui diritti umani e la democrazia definisce 97 azioni che l'UE metterà in atto entro il 31 dicembre 2014. La relazione annuale dell'UE sui diritti umani include una sintesi aggiornata sull'attuazione del piano d'azione. Nove azioni previste dal piano d'azione dovevano essere attuate entro la fine del 2012: 6 a), 6 d), 7, 14 a),16 a), 18 c), 23 a), 25 b) e 30b). Sono stati compiuti importanti progressi nel conseguimento di quasi tutti questi obiettivi, mentre si sta lavorando per portare a termine le azioni restanti con scadenze previste nel 2013 e 2014.

Nella risoluzione del maggio 2010, il Parlamento europeo invitava il governo pakistano ad affrontare una serie di questioni relative ai diritti delle minoranze religiose. La situazione delle minoranze religiose in Pakistan continua tuttavia ad essere motivo di grave preoccupazione. Il Consiglio «Affari esteri» del marzo 2013 ha condannato fermamente nelle sue conclusioni tutti gli atti di violenza contro le minoranze religiose vulnerabili in Pakistan e ha sollecitato le autorità ad assicurare i colpevoli alla giustizia. Il Consiglio ha inoltre sottolineato l'intenzione dell'UE di impegnarsi con il neoeletto governo pakistano su temi prioritari, tra cui i diritti umani e la tutela delle minoranze.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008801/13

to the Commission

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: A Pakistani Christian condemned to life imprisonment

On 13 July 2013, the court of Gojra sentenced Sajjad Masih, a Pakistani Christian in the district of Pakpattan, to life imprisonment. The boy was arrested in December 2011 for violating the blasphemy law by sending text messages whose content was judged offensive by some Muslim clerics. Various religious figures from the area testified against Mr Masih in recent months. During the inquiry, investigators reconstructed the events caused by a dispute between Sajjad Masih and a relative, Roma. Since she had refused his offer of marriage, the young man allegedly took his revenge by sending blasphemous messages using a SIM card registered in the girl’s name. The court of Toba Tek Singh also ordered Masih to pay a fine of INR 200 000 (around EUR 2 000).

— Is the Commission aware of these events?

— With reference to the events which occurred last year involving Rimsha Masih, falsely accused of blasphemy and the victim of a plot to obtain land from her family, does the Commission believe it necessary to draw the attention of the international community to the use of the blasphemy law in Islamic countries as an instrument to attack religious minorities?

— Can the Commission indicate the implementation status of the EU Strategic Framework and Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy adopted on 25 June 2012 by the Foreign Affairs Council?

— With reference to the European Parliament resolution of 20 May 2010 on religious freedom in Pakistan (OJ C 161 E, 31.5.2011 p. 147), particularly paragraphs 7, 8, 9 and 10, does the Commission believe that the Pakistani Government has accepted the European community's invitation concerning the safeguarding of religious minorities in the country?

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

(6 September 2013)

The HR/VP is aware of the case of Sajjad Masih. His case is an important reminder that the blasphemy laws are open to abuse. The EU engages in regular dialogue with Pakistan on human rights, and has made its views on the blasphemy laws clear (see replies to E-10472/2012 and E-004204/2012).

The action plan on Human Rights and Democracy sets out 97 actions that the EU will implement by 31 December 2014. The Annual EU Report on Human Rights comprises a summary of implementation of the action plan to date. Nine actions in the action plan (6(a), 6(d), 7, 14(a),16(a), 18(c), 23(a),25(b) and 30(b)) were to be implemented by the end of 2012. Significant progress has been made in achieving almost all of these objectives, while work is underway on the remaining actions with deadlines in 2013 and 2014.

The EP resolution of 2010 called on the Government of Pakistan to address a range of issues relating to the rights of religious minorities. Nevertheless, the situation for religious minorities in Pakistan continues to be a matter of serious concern. In March 2013 the EU Foreign Affairs Council conclusions strongly condemned all acts of violence against vulnerable religious minorities in Pakistan and urged the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice. They also underlined EU plans to engage with the newly elected Pakistani government on priority issues including human rights and the protection of minorities.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008802/13

alla Commissione

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: La diffamazione in internet

Internet, strumento potentissimo per la diffusione di comunicazioni e per lo scambio d'informazioni, viene sempre più spesso abusato da chi intende di diffondere un'offesa o far circolare delle falsità per colpire soggetti terzi.

Le statistiche dimostrano, infatti, che tra i reati commessi sulla rete, spicca, assieme alle violazioni in materia di diritto di autore e privacy, la diffamazione.

Dai social network dedicati ad accogliere le recensioni sulle strutture turistiche come Tripadvisor, a Facebook, dai blog ai quotidiani online, si moltiplicano i luoghi per gli abusi che possono danneggiare irrimediabilmente la reputazione di persone, aziende, prodotti, colpendo qualità personali o professionali e arrecando danni nell'ambito familiare, lavorativo e commerciale. Si passa dai danni economici per chi viene denigrato nella sua operatività commerciale, ai danni morali quando, via internet vengono diffuse offese e menzogne diffamanti su di un soggetto volte a ledere la sua reputazione e il suo onore. Fermare questo fenomeno non è facile: nello spazio virtuale, le parole restano in memoria per un tempo indefinito mentre le autorità di polizia e vigilanza postali, che devono gestire gli illeciti, denunciano le difficoltà e i costi delle indagini.

Se, da un lato, è necessario tutelare la possibilità di tutti i cittadini di esprimersi liberamente, divulgare informazioni e commenti, criticare comportamenti e idee, dall'altro lato occorre assicurare che chi venga colpito da diffamazione si veda assicurata la giusta tutela e che i soggetti diffamatori vengano individuati e perseguiti.

Alla luce di quanto sopra, può la Commissione indicare come intende assicurare alle vittime della diffamazione la possibilità di veder rettificate le informazioni che le riguardano, che ne venga cancellata la traccia da internet e che ci sia la reintegrazione e la riparazione dell'onore e della reputazione offesa?

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(11 settembre 2013)

L’Unione non prevede attualmente di regolamentare aspetti di diritto penale relativi alla diffamazione: le leggi e le politiche degli Stati membri differiscono notevolmente per quanto riguarda le norme e le procedure in materia di diffamazione. Le obbligazioni extracontrattuali derivanti da violazioni della vita privata e dei diritti della personalità sono escluse dall’attuale campo di applicazione del regolamento (CE) n. 864/2007 sulla legge applicabile alle obbligazioni extracontrattuali (Roma II). La Commissione prevede tuttavia di adottare nell’ottobre 2013 una relazione in cui valuterà il funzionamento di tale regolamento. La relazione esaminerà in maniera approfondita gli sviluppi relativi al lavoro svolto a livello dell’UE nel settore della legge applicabile alle obbligazioni extracontrattuali che derivano da violazioni della vita privata e dei diritti della personalità.

La direttiva 95/46/CE (173) sulla protezione dei dati stabilisce le condizioni per il trattamento legittimo dei dati personali e i conseguenti diritti degli interessati, come il diritto di rettifica e cancellazione di dati personali incompleti o inesatti quando non siano più necessari per finalità legittime. Il «diritto all’oblio» contenuto nella proposta della Commissione per la riforma della protezione dei dati (174) si basa su tali diritti già esistenti.

Fatte salve le competenze della Commissione in quanto custode dei trattati, spetta alle autorità nazionali, comprese le autorità di controllo della protezione dei dati, monitorare l’applicazione delle misure nazionali che attuano la direttiva 95/46/CE per quanto riguarda la diffamazione nell’ambito del trattamento dei dati personali.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008802/13

to the Commission

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Internet defamation

The Internet, a very powerful message-sending and information-sharing tool, is increasingly being abused by those who wish to make offensive remarks or spread lies to harm others.

Statistics show, in fact, that defamation is one of the main offences committed online, together with copyright and privacy infringements.

From social networks dedicated to posting reviews of tourist facilities, such as TripAdvisor, to Facebook, blogs and online newspapers, more and more sites are open to abuse that can irreparably damage the reputation of individuals, businesses and products, undermining a person’s character or professional standing and causing damage within family, work and commercial environments. Economic damage inflicted on those who are defamed in a business context becomes moral damage when the defamatory remarks or lies that are spread about a person via the Internet are intended to damage his reputation and good name. This phenomenon is difficult to stop: in the virtual space, anything that is written is stored indefinitely, while the Postal and Communications Police Service, which is supposed to deal with these offences, complains that investigations are costly and difficult.

While, on the one hand, every citizen’s right to express himself freely, spread information, make comments and criticise others’ behaviour and ideas must be protected, on the other hand, it is important to ensure that those who are defamed receive the protection they deserve and that the defamers are identified and prosecuted.

In view of the above, can the Commission say how it will ensure that victims of slander are able to have any information about them corrected, that all traces of that information are removed from the Internet and that the damaged reputation and good name of the victims are repaired and restored?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

At the moment, there are no plans at Union level to regulate criminal law aspects of defamation: the Member States laws and policies differ considerable with regards to the rules and procedures concerning defamation. Non-contractual obligations arising out of violations of privacy and rights relating to personality are excluded from the current scope of the regulation (EC) No 864/2007 on the law applicable to non-contractual obligations (Rome II) The Commission expects however to adopt a report in October 2013 in which it will evaluate the operation of the Rome II Regulation. The report will take full stock of developments in respect of the work carried out at EU level in the field of the law applicable to non-contractual obligations arising out of violations of privacy and rights relating to personality.

The Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC (175) sets out the conditions for legitimate processing of personal data and the ensuing data subject rights, such as the right to rectification and erasure of incomplete or inaccurate personal data if they are no longer needed for any legitimate purpose. The ‘right to be forgotten’ contained in the Commission’s data protection reform proposal (176) builds on these existing rights.

Without prejudice to the powers of the Commission as guardian of the Treaties, it is for the national authorities, including the data protection supervisory authorities, to monitor the application of the national measures implementing Directive 95/46/EC when it comes to the processing of personal data in an infamatory manner.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008803/13

alla Commissione

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Tripadvisor: recensioni vere o false

Tripadvisor è il portale che raccoglie recensioni e commenti su hotel e ristoranti di tutto il mondo allo scopo di orientare i turisti nella scelta tra le diverse offerte disponibili. Trentadue milioni di visitatori ogni mese, oltre quindici milioni di membri e circa trenta milioni di giudizi su più di un milione di strutture ricettive fanno di Tripadvisor la «guida turistica virtuale» che esercita, oggi, più influenza sulle decisioni di viaggio di qualunque altro social network operante nel settore.

All'inizio del mese di febbraio 2013, l'Associazione veneziana degli albergatori (AVA) e l'Associazione di categoria Federalberghi Veneto hanno lanciato un serissimo allarme: attraverso la manipolazione fraudolenta del suo meccanismo di funzionamento, che permette di lasciare un commento a chiunque e non necessariamente a un cliente che ha usufruito del servizio, Tripadvisor può causare ingenti danni al turismo veneto e nazionale, esponendo al rischio di truffa numerosi consumatori e a quello di diffamazione numerosi imprenditori. Da un lato, infatti, numerose agenzie di consulenza hanno cominciato a offrire la vendita di pacchetti di recensioni positive che facciano guadagnare alla struttura più attrattività tra i viaggiatori/utenti di Tripadvisor, mentre, dall'altro lato, sfruttando l'interattività anche anonima dei social network, Tripadvisor può essere usato per diffondere recensioni negative con il solo scopo di screditare un operatore concorrente.

Può la Commissione dire:

Risposta di Viviane Reding a nome della Commissione

(10 ottobre 2013)

La Commissione è consapevole del problema generale delle false recensioni on line pur non essendo a conoscenza dell’esistenza di un problema specifico relativo al rating di alberghi e ristoranti nella regione del Veneto.

L’onorevole parlamentare dovrebbe sapere che già esiste una normativa dell’Unione che tutela i consumatori contro la pubblicità ingannevole.

La direttiva 2005/29/CE (177) prevede l’obbligo per i professionisti di non indurre in errore i consumatori per quanto riguarda una vasta gamma di elementi tra cui i motivi della pratica commerciale. Inoltre, la direttiva vieta (in tutte le circostanze), la prassi di presentarsi falsamente come consumatore (Allegato I n. 22).

Gli Stati membri sono responsabili dell’adozione di mezzi adeguati ed efficaci per combattere le pratiche commercialisleali. Dall’esperienza acquisita è emersa tuttaviala necessità di coordinare meglio l’applicazione delle norme, in particolare laddove si tratti di un problema ricorrente in diversi Stati membri. In linea con la strategia di protezione dei consumatori (178), la relazione sull’applicazione della direttiva 2005/29/CE (179) adottata il 14 marzo 2013, individua i settori chiave dove intervenire, tra cui il settore online come gli strumenti di controllo a disposizione dei clienti e i siti internet che permettono di confrontare i prezzi (180), dove l’applicazione delle norme andrebbe rafforzata.

I partecipanti al dialogo tra tutte le parti interessate sugli strumenti di confronto (MSDCT) hanno inoltre raccomandato (181) che i gestori di strumenti di confronto adottino misure per garantire l’autenticità delle recensioni e dei rating dell’utilizzatore che vengono presentati, tra cui misure di natura tecnica che impediscano revisioni e rating automatici. Facendo seguito alla relazione MSCDT, la Commissione sta per avviare uno studio approfondito sugli strumenti di confronto e i relativi sistemi di verifica da parte di terzi. Lo studio dovrà in particolare esaminare come viene garantita la qualità e l’autenticità delle recensioni sugli strumenti di confronto e in che modo le recensioni influenzano il comportamento dei consumatori in materia di acquisti.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008803/13

to the Commission

Mara Bizzotto (EFD)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: TripAdvisor: real or fake reviews?

TripAdvisor is the website which gathers reviews and comments on hotels and restaurants from all over the world with the aim of helping tourists choose from the various options available. With 32 million visitors per month, over 15 million members and approximately 30 million opinions on more than 1 million lodgings, TripAdvisor is the virtual tourist guide that currently exerts the most influence on travel decisions out of all social networks in the sector.

At the start of February 2013, the Venetian Association of Hoteliers (AVA) and the hotel trade association Federalberghi Veneto sounded a serious alarm: since the website allows comments to be left by anyone, and not necessarily by a customer who used the service, this mechanism could be fraudulently manipulated. TripAdvisor could therefore cause substantial damage to tourism in the Veneto region and in Italy as a whole, placing countless consumers at risk of being conned, and numerous business owners at risk of defamation. On the one hand, countless consultancy agencies have begun to sell packages of positive reviews which make the accommodation more attractive to travellers/TripAdvisor users, whereas on the other hand, by exploiting the interactivity of social networks and the anonymity they provide, TripAdvisor can be used to publish negative reviews with the sole aim of discrediting a competitor.

— Is the Commission aware of the problems and phenomena reported by hoteliers and operators in the tourist industry in the Veneto region?

— Is the Commission aware of similar problems reported by hoteliers, restaurateurs and operators in the tourist industry in the EU?

— How will it protect the sector and consumers against the misuse and defamatory use of reviews on TripAdvisor?

— Does the Commission believe it would be helpful to introduce transparent, common regulation of websites which offer hotel and restaurant reviews, by facilitating, for example, the creation of closed systems where comments and opinions can only be posted by individuals who have a code issued at the time of payment?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(10 October 2013)

The Commission is aware of the general problem of online fake reviews, although it is not aware of a specific problem with hotels and restaurants' rating in the Veneto region.

The Honourable Member should know that there is already Union legislation which protects consumers against misleading advertising.

Directive 2005/29/EC (182) requires traders not to mislead consumers on a wide range of elements including the motives of a commercial practice. Furthermore, the directive prohibits (in all circumstances) the practice of falsely representing oneself as a consumer (Annex I n. 22).

Member States are responsible for setting up adequate and effective means to combat unfair commercial practices. However experience has shown a need for improving coordinated enforcement, in particular where a recurring problem arises in different Member States. In line with the Commission's Consumer Agenda (183), the report on the application of Directive 2005/29/EC (184) adopted on 14 March 2013 identifies key areas for actions, including the online sector such as customer review tools and price comparison websites (185), where enforcement should be stepped up.

Participants to the Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Comparison Tools (MSDCT) also recommended (186) that comparison tools operators take measures to ensure the authenticity of the user reviews and ratings they feature, including technical measures against automated reviews and ratings. As a follow-up to the MSDCT report, the Commission is about to launch an in-depth study on comparison tools and related third-party verification schemes. The study will notably look into how the quality and authenticity of reviews on comparison tools is ensured and how reviews influence consumers' purchasing behaviour.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008804/13

alla Commissione

Matteo Salvini (EFD)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Scie chimiche e geo-ingegneria

Una vasta parte della comunità scientifica internazionale ritiene che le scie rilasciate dagli aerei disperdano nell'aria sostanze tossiche, quali alluminio, bario e ferro, e siano pertanto estremamente pericolose. La presenza di queste sostanze nell'atmosfera e gli effetti che hanno sull'uomo — si veda la sindrome di Morgellus, già oggetto d'interrogazione parlamentare (E‐002906/2012) –, su fauna, flora e quindi sull'intera catena alimentare sono stati illustrati durante un seminario che si è tenuto in seno al Parlamento europeo nel marzo 2013.

Può la Commissione spiegare su quali basi scientifiche l'inalazione continuata di metalli pesanti e il depositarsi di essi sul suolo (contaminando acqua e cibo) siano del tutto innocui per il mantenimento di elevati standard qualitativi di vita di 500 milioni di europei?

Le informazioni pubbliche riguardo a scie chimiche e geo-ingegneria appaiono inadeguate. Solo sul sito del Parlamento tedesco è possibile trovare documenti che spiegano cosa sia la geo-ingegneria. Come mai questo tipo d'informazioni sono taciute nella gran parte degli Stati europei e dalla Commissione europea? Quale è il livello di coinvolgimento dell'Agenzia europea dell'ambiente?

Nel settembre 2009 (risposta all'interrogazione E-3730/2009 dell'on. Jim Higgins), la Commissione dichiarò di aver intenzione di seguire gli sviluppi scientifici in questo campo e di intervenire una volta che l'impatto fosse più chiaro. Può la Commissione riferire quale sia lo stato di avanzamento di questi sviluppi scientifici da lei seguiti?

Nel settembre 2011 (risposta all'interrogazione E-006621/2011 dell'on. Nessa Childers), la Commissione si impegnò a «indagare sulle ripercussioni climatiche non correlate alle emissioni di CO2 del settore aereo» e a «presentare una proposta in merito, nel quadro delle politiche globali dell'UE in materia di cambiamenti climatici in futuro». Può la Commissione fornire informazioni sullo stato di avanzamento di queste indagini e di tale proposta?

Risposta di Janez Potočnik a nome della Commissione

(3 settembre 2013)

Come affermato nella risposta all'interrogazione E-002906/2012, i dati scientifici disponibili indicano che le emissioni degli aeromobili non costituiscono una fonte rilevante di dispersione di metalli pesanti nell'atmosfera o nell'ambiente in generale. Sebbene vari metalli pesanti siano emessi nell'atmosfera da altre fonti, la loro inalazione diretta conta per una percentuale irrilevante nell'esposizione complessiva dell'uomo a tali inquinanti: questa dipende direttamente dai livelli elevati di tali metalli negli alimenti e nell'acqua potabile, la cui contaminazione è dovuta alle concentrazioni presenti in natura o alle emissioni nell'aria, nell'acqua e nel suolo. L'Organizzazione mondiale della sanità (OMS) ha esaminato il rischio sanitario complessivo derivante dall'esposizione ai metalli (187) riscontrandone la rilevanza, soprattutto a causa dei livelli elevati di cadmio, piombo e mercurio presenti nell'ambiente: i cittadini dell'Unione risentono quindi di questa situazione.

La Commissione non ha taciuto nessuna informazione in merito alle questioni sollevate nell'interrogazione. Poiché la funzione specifica dell'Agenzia europea dell'ambiente è fornire alle istituzioni dell'UE fatti e dati oggettivi sull'ambiente, le questioni sollevate nell'interrogazione esulano dal suo mandato. Peraltro l'Agenzia ha risposto sul suo forum pubblico ai quesiti che le sono stati sottoposti al riguardo (188).

La Commissione intende studiare gli effetti del trasporto aereo sul clima che esulano dalla problematica della CO2 e sostiene le attività di ricerca in corso volte a quantificarli e a stabilire il modo in cui attenuarli. Al momento, tuttavia, la sua priorità è collaborare con l'Organizzazione per l'aviazione civile internazionale (ICAO) al fine di definire un approccio globale alla riduzione delle emissioni di CO2 imputabili al trasporto aereo internazionale.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008804/13

to the Commission

Matteo Salvini (EFD)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Chemtrails and geo-engineering

Many in the international scientific community believe that the trails emitted by aircraft disperse toxic substances such as aluminium, barium and iron into the air, and are therefore extremely dangerous. The presence of these substances in the atmosphere and the effects that they have on humans — causing conditions such as Morgellons syndrome, which is already the subject of a parliamentary question (E‐002906/2012) — on flora and fauna and hence on the entire food chain, were illustrated during a seminar held at the European Parliament in March 2013.

Can the Commission explain how, from a scientific point of view, the continuous inhalation of heavy metals and the settling of these on the ground (contaminating water and food) do not adversely affect the efforts of Europe’s 500 million citizens to maintain a high quality of life?

Publicly available information on chemtrails and geo-engineering appears to be lacking. Documents explaining what geo-engineering is can only be found on the German Parliament’s website. Why is this kind of information being withheld in most of the Member States and by the Commission? What is the extent of the European Environment Agency’s involvement?

In September 2009 (answer to Written Question E-3730/2009 by Jim Higgins), the Commission said that it intended to follow scientific developments in this area and to take action once the impacts were better understood. Can the Commission indicate the current status of these scientific developments that it is following?

In September 2011 (answer to Written Question E-006621/2011 by Nessa Childers), the Commission pledged to ‘investigate the non-CO2 climate impacts of aviation’ and to ‘deliver such a proposal as part of comprehensive EU climate change policies in the future’. Can the Commission explain what progress has been made with these investigations and with this proposal?

Answer given by Mr Potočnik on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

As stated in the answer to the parliamentary Question E-002906/2012, the available scientific evidence indicates that aircraft emissions are not a significant source of heavy metals in the atmosphere nor the general environment. Although several of the heavy metals from other sources are emitted to the atmosphere, direct inhalation of heavy metals represents an insignficant fraction of total human exposure by these pollutants. The total human exposure is directly related to elevated levels of these metals in food and drinking water, which have been contaminated by naturally occurring levels or through releases to air, waters and soils. The total health risk of metals' exposure has been evaluated by the WHO (189) which finds that the risk is significant, particularly due to elevated levels of cadmium, lead and mercury in the environment and hence adversely affecting EU citizens.

The Commission has not withheld any information related to the issues raised in this parliamentary question. The specific role of the EEA is to provide the EU institutions with objective facts and information on the environment and the issues covered by this parliamentary question would go beyond that remit. In addition,, the EEA has received and answered queries related to these issues on their open EEA forum (190).

The Commission is committed to address the non-CO2 climate impacts of aviation and supports the ongoing scientific research to quantify impacts and to identify how to mitigate the effects. However, at present its focus is to work through the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to develop a global approach to mitigate the CO2 emissions of international aviation.

(Versione italiana)

Interrogazione con richiesta di risposta scritta E-008805/13

alla Commissione

Franco Bonanini (NI)

(17 luglio 2013)

Oggetto: Bando della Regione Basilicata Misura 214 — Azione 6 — Introduzione di tecniche di agricoltura conservativa

Il bando relativo alla Misura 214 — Azione 6 «Introduzione di tecniche di agricoltura conservativa» emanato dalla Regione Basilicata il 30 aprile 2013 nell'ambito del programma di sviluppo rurale della Basilicata PSR 2007/2013 riconosce all’articolo 4 che l'agricoltura conservativa «comporta una fase di significativa flessione produttiva, accompagnata ad un incremento sensibile di fitofarmaci e fertilizzanti da impiegare con oculatezza e frazionare in dosi ed epoche appropriate …».

Considerato che l'importo dei pagamenti previsti dal bando regionale per questa azione ha come effetto quello di penalizzare significativamente l'agricoltura biologica, per la quale sono previsti importi inferiori, può la Commissione chiarire se il bando menzionato sia compatibile nelle sue disposizioni con i principi generali del protocollo di Kyoto, con le strategie generali della UE in materia ambientale e con gli obiettivi generali del programma di sviluppo rurale o se non vada piuttosto nella direzione del sostegno a una modalità di agricoltura che utilizza in modo consistente e strutturato diserbanti e fitofarmaci di sintesi invece di incentivarne la progressiva sostituzione unitamente all'abbattimento dei gas a effetto serra?

Risposta di Dacian Cioloş a nome della Commissione

(11 settembre 2013)

Nel contesto della gestione condivisa dei programmi di sviluppo rurale, la pubblicazione di bandi specifici e l'attuazione di misure previste nei programmi rientrano fra le responsabilità delle autorità nazionali e, nel caso specifico dell'Italia, di quelle regionali.

Desideriamo informare l'onorevole deputato che nel giugno 2013 la Regione Basilicata ha notificato una proposta di modifica del programma di sviluppo rurale, introducendo una nuova azione 6 agroambientale «Agricoltura conservativa» nell'ambito della misura 214. Tuttavia, la proposta è allo studio dei servizi della Commissione e non è ancora stata approvata dalla Commissione europea. I servizi della Commissione valuteranno se la proposta di modifica è conforme ai regolamenti dell'UE in materia di sviluppo rurale.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008805/13

to the Commission

Franco Bonanini (NI)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: Basilicata Regional Government Invitation to Tender, Measure 214 — Action 6 — Introduction of conservation agriculture techniques

The invitation to tender relating to Measure 214 — Action 6 ‘Introduction of conservation agriculture techniques’, issued by the Basilicata Regional Government on 30 April 2013, within the context of the Basilicata RDP 2007/2013 Regional Development Programme, recognises, in Article 4, that conservation agriculture ‘includes a phase of considerably reduced production, combined with a significant increase in pesticides and fertilisers which must be used with caution and applied in appropriate doses and at suitable periods…’

Considering that the amount of the payments stipulated by the regional invitation to tender for this measure heavily penalises organic farming, for which lower payments are stipulated, can the Commission clarify whether the provisions of this invitation to tender are compatible with the general principles of the Kyoto Protocol, the EU's general environmental strategy and the general objectives of the Rural Development Programme, or whether it instead seeks to support a method of agriculture which makes consistent and structured use of synthetic herbicides and pesticides instead of encouraging the progressive replacement of such chemicals together with the reduction of greenhouse gases?

Answer given by Mr Cioloş on behalf of the Commission

(11 September 2013)

In the context of shared management of rural development programs (RDPs), the launching of specific calls for applications and the implementation of measures foreseen in the programmes belongs to the national authorities, and in the case of Italy, to the regional authorities.

We would like to inform the Honourable Member that in June 2013 the Region Basilicata notified a proposal for a modification to the RDP, introducing a new agro-environmental action 6 ‘Conservation agriculture’ within measure 214. However the proposal is currently under evaluation by the Commission Services, and not yet accepted by the European Commission. The Commission services will assess whether the modification proposal is in line with the EU regulations on rural development.

(Versión española)

Pregunta con solicitud de respuesta escrita E-008806/13

a la Comisión

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(17 de julio de 2013)

Asunto: 2015, Año Europeo del Patrimonio Industrial

La Asamblea Parlamentaria del Consejo de Europa promueve, en su Resolución 1924(2013) (191), la protección del patrimonio industrial europeo. En el apartado 3 apoya la campaña iniciada por la Federación Europea de Asociaciones de Patrimonio Industrial y Técnico (E-FAITH) (192) para que el año 2015 sea declarado «Año Europeo del Patrimonio Industrial». Adjuntamos la lista de países y asociaciones que han apoyado esta iniciativa (193).

En el apartado 5, la Asamblea invita a la Unión Europea y a la Unesco a sumarse a esta campaña de promoción y, en concreto, a apoyar la declaración del año 2015 como «Año Europeo del Patrimonio Industrial».

A la luz de lo anterior:

Respuesta de la Sra. Vassiliou en nombre de la Comisión

(3 de septiembre de 2013)

La protección del patrimonio cultural, incluido el patrimonio industrial, es sobre todo competencia de los Estados miembros. Con arreglo al artículo 167 del Tratado de Funcionamiento de la UE, la acción de esta se limita a favorecer la cooperación entre EM y a apoyar y completar la acción de estos, a fin de conservar y proteger el patrimonio cultural de importancia europea.

Por lo tanto, hay una financiación importante de la UE disponible para proteger el patrimonio industrial. El Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional [Reglamento (CE) n° 1080/2006], por ejemplo, considera prioritarias a las regiones industriales en crisis. También se han publicado anualmente licitaciones para apoyar el desarrollo o la mejora de las rutas que explotan nuestro patrimonio cultural e industrial europeo. El Premio Unión Europea de Patrimonio Cultural se concede también periódicamente a emplazamientos del patrimonio industrial, como el premio de este año al Puerto de Hidroaviones de Tallin.

La Comisión está trabajando con la Presidencia lituana para poner de relieve el conjunto de iniciativas y programas de la UE que pueden utilizarse para proteger y promover el patrimonio cultural, en una conferencia que se celebrará en Vilna los días 13 y 14 de noviembre.

La Comisión ha examinado con interés la Resolución 1924(2013) del Consejo de Europa, incluida la propuesta para que 2015 sea declarado «Año Europeo del Patrimonio Industrial». Sin embargo, la Comisión ya ha adoptado una propuesta para que 2015 sea declarado Año Europeo del Desarrollo. Este proyecto de Decisión COM(2013) 509 está siendo considerado actualmente por el Parlamento Europeo y el Consejo.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008806/13

to the Commission

Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

(17 July 2013)

Subject: 2015, European Industrial Heritage Year

In its resolution 1924(2013) (194), the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe promotes the protection of European industrial heritage. Paragraph 3 supports the campaign started by the European Federation of Associations of Industrial and Technical Heritage (E-FAITH) (195) calling for 2015 to be declared ‘European Industrial Heritage Year’. Attached is the list of countries and associations that have lent their support to this initiative (196).

In paragraph 5, the Assembly calls on the European Union and Unesco to take part in the promotional campaign and, in particular, to support making 2015 ‘European Industrial Heritage Year’.

‘European Industrial Heritage Year’?

Answer given by Ms Vassiliou on behalf of the Commission

(3 September 2013)

The protection of cultural heritage, including industrial heritage, is primarily the responsibility of Member States. Under Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, action by the EU is limited to encouraging cooperation between MS and supporting and supplementing their action, with a view to conserving and safeguarding cultural heritage of European significance.

Significant EU funding is therefore available to protect industrial heritage. The European Regional Development Fund (Regulation EC1080/2006) for instance identifies declining industrial regions as a priority. Calls for proposals have also been launched on an annual basis to support the development or improvement of transnational Routes exploiting our European cultural and industrial heritage. The EU Prize for Cultural Heritage is also regularly awarded to industrial heritage sites, such as this year's award to Tallinn Seaplane Harbour.

The Commission is working with the Lithuanian Presidency to highlight the range of EU policies and programmes which can be used to protect and promote cultural heritage, at a conference in Vilnius on 13-14 November.

The Commission has reviewed with interest Council of Europe resolution 1924(2013), including the proposal to designate 2015 ‘European Industrial Heritage Year’. However the Commission has already adopted a proposal for 2015 to be designated the European Year of Development. This draft Decision COM(2013) 509 is now being considered by the European Parliament and Council.

(Deutsche Fassung)

Anfrage zur schriftlichen Beantwortung E-008807/13

an die Kommission

Hermann Winkler (PPE)

(17. Juli 2013)

Betrifft: Exzellenz-Zeremonie Innovationspartnerschaft „Aktivitäten und Gesundheit im Alter“ am 1.7.2013 in Brüssel

Im Rahmen der Innovationspartnerschaft „Aktivitäten und Gesundheit im Alter“ wurde ein Projekt des Freistaats Sachsen erfreulicherweise mit 2 von 3 Sternen ausgezeichnet. Im Rahmen der Verleihungszeremonie am 01.07.2013 in Brüssel wurde diese Auszeichnung von einem Mitarbeiter des Sächsischen Staatsministeriums für Soziales und Verbraucherschutz entgegen genommen. Angesichts der europaweiten Bedeutung dieser Auszeichnung wäre die Übergabe an einen protokollarisch höherrangigen Verantwortungsträger des Freistaats, auch im Sinne einer größeren Öffentlichkeitswirksamkeit, angemessen gewesen. Auf entsprechende Nachfrage im Sächsischen Staatsministerium für Soziales und Verbraucherschutz hieß es, dass seitens der Europäischen Kommission trotz wiederholtem Ersuchen um Informationen zur Platzierung des Freistaats Sachsen zwecks Vorbereitung der Teilnahme keine Auskunft erteilt wurde. Daraufhin sei mangels notwendiger Entscheidungsgrundlage von der Anreise eines Regierungsmitglieds Abstand genommen worden.

Antwort von Tonio Borg im Namen der Kommission

(12. September 2013)

Am 1. Juli 2013 nahmen Vertreter 31 europäischer Regionen an der Verleihungszeremonie teil, bei der Referenz-Websites im Rahmen der Innovationspartnerschaft „Aktivität und Gesundheit im Alter“ ausgezeichnet wurden. Alle Referenz-Websites waren Gewinner und wurden mit einem bis drei Sternen als Anerkennung für die Arbeit in ihrer Region ausgezeichnet.

Vertreter aller Referenz-Websites wurden am 3. Mai zu der Veranstaltung eingeladen, wobei die Einladungen über vereinbarte Kontaktstellen übermittelt wurden. Die Eingeladenen wurden darüber informiert, dass die Ergebnisse erst bei der Verleihungszeremonie selbst bekanntgegeben würden. Alle Eingeladenen hatten zuvor ein Papier erhalten, in dem das Verfahren dargestellt wurde, und hatten Gelegenheit, sich dazu zu äußern.

Die Sterne-Einstufung wurde keiner der Referenz-Sites vor der Veranstaltung mitgeteilt, um Unabhängigkeit und Gleichbehandlung sicherzustellen. Außerdem hätte eine frühere Bekanntgabe der Ergebnisse dem zuvor vereinbarten Verfahren widersprochen. An der Veranstaltung nahmen mehrere Vertreter von Regionen auf Ministerialebene sowie Stadtbürgermeister teil.

Die Kommission hatte gegenüber allen Referenz-Websites angeregt, dass sie einen hochrangigen Vertreter, eine für die fachliche Seite zuständige Person und einen Vertreter der lokalen Medien zu der Veranstaltung entsenden.

Angesichts des Interesses, auf das die Veranstaltung gestoßen ist, wird das Vorgehen bei der Einladung für künftige Zeremonien im Lichte der Erfahrungen überprüft. Außerdem wird das Verfahren für die endgültige Beurteilung und die Verleihungszeremonie mit künftigen Referenz-Website-Kandidaten erörtert werden.

(English version)

Question for written answer E-008807/13

to the Commission

Hermann Winkler (PPE)

(17 July 2013)