WRITTEN QUESTION E-0431/02

by Konstantinos Hatzidakis (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(21 February 2002)

Subject: Failure of programme to build marinas in Greece problems with the tourism subprogramme of the 2nd CSF

As the Commission will be aware, a decision was taken under the tourism subprogramme of the 2nd CSF to build four marinas in Greece (at Zakynthos, Ikaria, Argostoli and Thassos) with the public sector contributing 18 million euro and the private sector 13 million euro. The works commenced in 1996. One year after the start (1997), it was thought advisable to carry out a feasibility study, which showed the works were feasible. Three years after (1999), it was thought in regard to the private sector's involvement that the model used up to that point (direct intervention by EOT the Greek National Tourism Organisation) should be changed and the services of a financial consultant engaged. The consultant was appointed, he signed a contract, requested further investment and, although he was required to present the details of the tenders to be invited from the private sector (for the exploitation of the marinas) by 7 December 2001, he has not yet done so. In the meantime, the only section of the Zakynthos marina under construction is nowhere near completion and, needless to say, there is no mention of private sector involvement. On Ikaria, one third of the budget was spent simply pouring concrete into the sea, after which the project was abandoned. On Thassos, the project was scaled down because of problems with the fuel tank, the windward jetty, the markings, etc.

1. What does the Commission intend to do to tackle these problems?

2. What is the current situation with regard to the tourism subprogramme of the 2nd CSF in Greece?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(22 April 2002)

The Commission would note first of all that the correct implementation of projects is a matter for the national authorities.

It is aware of the difficulties encountered in the part-financing of the four marinas mentioned by the Honourable Member included in the Tourism sub-programme of the Tourism and Culture operational programme under the Community support framework (CSF) for Greece in the 1994-1999 programming period. It has already exchanged correspondence with the Greek authorities about these problems.

As far as the accounts of the Tourism sub-programme in the 2nd CSF in Greece are concerned, under Regulation (EEC) No 2082/93, the date of eligibility of expenditure incurred for projects in the 1994-1999 programming period is 31 December 2001.

The Member States are required to send the final applications for payment and supporting documents for approval by 30 June 2002.

The last annual report currently available (1998) shows that public expenditure on the Tourism sub-programme in the 1994-1999 programming period amounted to 45 million, 44 % of total public expenditure on the programme. Further information provided by the Greek authorities early in 2000 puts public expenditure at 61 million, which represents absorption of public expenditure at about 65 % compared with the last decision to amend the programme, taken on 6 May 2000. The final position with regard to this sub-programme can only be established on the basis of the closing report from the Greek authorities, which will give exact figures for the years 1999 to 2001.

This means that the Commission is at present unable check compliance with all the commitments given by the Greek authorities in respect of these projects, including the completion of works and the concession to the private sector of the construction of land facilities and the general management of the marinas. It has, however, asked those authorities to provide it with full information on the implementation of measure 1,1 Maritime tourism in this operational programme.