WRITTEN QUESTION No. 3373/97 by Ole KRARUP to the Commission. EU economic development and structural funding
30. 4. 98 EN Official Journal of the European Communities C 134/151 Does the Commission intend to propose a budgetary item for specific aid, or a new Community initiative to fund an action plan, involving the authorities affected, with a view to preventing these disasters and repairing the environmental damage? Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission (25 November 1997) The Commission wishes to express its solidarity with the people of the regions affected by the floods of September 1997. It also agrees that these are not sporadic occurrences, so that preventive action and a special effort by the authorities are called for. In this connection, the Commission encourages the exchange of experience between experts in the Member States in the context of civil protection measures, as well as research and consolidation of new knowledge by means of projects. Moreover, a proposal for an action programme is currently being discussed in the Council. The Commission also part-finances erosion prevention measures under the operational programmes in the Community support framework. The regional authorities of Valencia, Murcia and Andalusia, the Spanish government and the Commission can together decide, within the framework of partnership, to dedicate part of the Community appropriations allocated to these regions under the Structural Funds to restoring the production potential and infrastructure damaged by the floods. (98/C 134/204) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3370/97 by Cristiana Muscardini (NI) to the Commission (22 October 1997) Subject: Opening of a quarry in the Pittolo area Is the Commission aware that a quarry is due to be opened in the Pittolo area, in the province of Piacenza, right next to houses and food shops? This will have obvious environmental repercussions, in addition to the inconvenience it will cause to the local population, and its adverse effects in terms of noise pollution and traffic disruption. Does the Commission intend to check that these plans do not contravene the relevant European legislation? Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission (13 November 1997) The Commission was not aware of the matters referred to by the Honourable Member. It will approach the Italian authorities for their comments and ensure that Community law is observed. (98/C 134/205) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3373/97 by Ole Krarup (I-EDN) to the Commission (22 October 1997) Subject: EU economic development and structural funding According to the report by Parliamentís Committee on Budgets on the financing of the enlargement of the European Union (A4-0353/96, Parts A and B), the Commission expects growth to average 2. 5% per annum over the 1999-2006 period. The Commission believes such growth will enable the EU to continue to pursue its structural policies, including in the new Member States