ddrg/super_eurlex huggingface dataset:
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0600/98 by Panayotis Lambrias (PPE) to the Commission (4 March 1998)

Subject: Civil aviation safety

Given the concern felt by public opinion about safety in the wake of the recent air disasters, can the Commission confirm reports by the relevant organisations that the European Union is lagging behind the United States in investments aimed at promoting civil aviation safety,? What measures does it intend to take to remedy this situation?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission (15 April 1998)

The Commission is not aware of reports of the sort referred to by the Honourable Member and cannot therefore respond to this part of the question. If the Honourable Member has material relating to such reports he is welcome to provide them for the Commission.

The Commission has taken a number of initiatives to contribute to an improvement in the already high safety standards of civil aviation in the Union. In particular, the Honourable Member is referred to the Commission Communication on 'Defining a Community aviation safety improvement strategy' ((SEC(96) 1083 final. )) for further details of the actions proposed by the Commission.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0182/98 by Florus Wijsenbeek (ELDR) to the Commission (5 February 1998)

Subject: Violation of ADR legislation by Belgium

Is the Commission aware that in Belgium firms carrying dangerous goods are subject to more stringent requirements, including severe penalties, than those in the forwarding agent's declaration ('ADR documents') prescribed by ADR framework directive 94/55?

Does the Commission agree that derogations to the ADR rules should be introduced only after the Commission has been notified - which Belgium has omitted to do - and has given its consent?

Does the Commission therefore believe that Belgium is acting in violation of European legislation and that a stop must be put to this practice forthwith?

Is the Commission prepared to contact the Belgian authorities in this respect with a view to putting a stop to this policy?

If so, how? If not, why not?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission (17 March 1998)

The Commission confirms that under the terms of Council Directive 94/55/EC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States with regard to the transport of dangerous goods by road ((OJ L 319, 12.12.1994. )) the consignor has to certify in a written form that the dangerous goods may be carried by road and are in conformity with the relevant provisions. This statement can be given in the transport document or in a separate declaration. The obligation of the consignor is laid down in Annex A of Council Directive 94/55/EC as amended by Commission Directive 96/86/EC ((OJ L 335, 24.12.1996. )).

The Commission is not aware that the application of the above mentioned provision has led to difficulties in Belgium. However, the Commission is ready to study this case and to contact the authorities in Belgium. The Commission would, therefore, welcome further information from the Honourable Member on this matter.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-1281/98 by Nikitas Kaklamanis (UPE) to the Commission (29 April 1998)

Subject: Destruction of graves in Greek cemetery in Istanbul

In the early light of 30 March 1998, vandals destroyed 51 graves in the Greek cemetery of Ayios Eleftherios at Tataoula in Istanbul. Acts such as these have been perpetrated countless times and their constant repetition is evidence that the fanaticism cultivated by the Turkish authorities is bearing fruit, while they do nothing to protect the monuments of the minorities who have the courage to live on their territory.

Is the Commission familiar with this matter and what measures will it take to prompt Turkey into action and punish those guilty of this outrage?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission (25 May 1998)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to the reply it gave to Oral Question H-425/98 by Mr Papakyriazis during question time at Parliament's May 1998 part-session ((Debates of the Parliament (May 1998). )).
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0552/98 by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission (4 March 1998)

Subject: Regional operational programme for Attiki - sub-programme 3, measure 1

Measure 1 of sub-programme 3 of the regional operational programme for Attiki concerns construction and equipping of laboratories for higher educational and technological institutes and the building of 21 secondary schools. According to the timetable, ECU 66 810 m of the public funds earmarked for this purpose should have been utilized by the end of 1997.

1. What progress has been made with the projects in questions?

2. How many secondary schools have been built and how many are under construction?

3. If there are delays, where are they occurring and what are the principal reasons for them?

4. Did any modifications occur during the CSF review and what were the budgetary implications thereof?

5. What funds had been utilized by 31.12.1997?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission (24 April 1998)

According to the financial tables amended on 21 October 1997, public expenditure earmarked for measure 3.1 of the Attica operational programme (Education) until 1997 totals ECU 55.16 million.

No changes were made to the regional programmes when the Community Support Framework Monitoring Committee last met, on 31 October 1997.

For technical information and a progress report on the work, the reasons for any delays, and details of the number of secondary educational establishments planned, the Honourable Member should contact the regional authorities in Attica that are responsible for the implementation of the CSF.

By the end of 1997 a total of ECU 52.5 million in appropriations had been utilised.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0866/98 by Anita Pollack (PSE) to the Commission (26 March 1998)

Subject: Bananas

Has the Commission taken any steps to promote better labour standards, including the right of association, with the Latin American banana-exporting companies?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission (30 April 1998)

The Community's scheme of generalized preferences (GSP) provides for special incentive arrangements concerning labour rights and environmental protection. These special incentive arrangements are to be granted in the form of additional tariff preferences to developing countries covered by the GSP, which respect the standards laid down in International labour organization (ILO) conventions Nos 87 and 98 concerning the application of the principles of the right to organize and to bargain collectively (and ILO convention No 138 concerning the minimum age for admission to employment). A Commission proposal for the application of these special incentive arrangements is at present under discussion by the Council.

Among the products covered by the GSP are plantains (other fresh bananas are not included) and dried bananas. The normal preferential duty applicable to these products is 85% of the common customs tariff duty. However the Andean group countries, the Central American common market countries and Panama are entitled to duty-free access for several specific products, including dried bananas, provided they continue their efforts to combat drugs.

In view of the above, the Latin American banana exporting countries which do not benefit already from the special 'drugs regime' will, as GSP beneficiaries, be able to request, after the adoption and the entry into force of the said regulation, the application of the additional preferences for plantains and dried bananas, provided they can prove that they apply legislation incorporating the substance of the standards laid down in the aforementioned ILO conventions. However it should be noted that the other fresh bananas are not covered by the GSP.

In addition, the Commission has provided funding to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) involved in 'fair trade' initiatives, which promote products produced in accordance with social and environmental standards, including the respect of ILO conventions relating for example to the right to associate and the prohibition of child labour. Funded projects have included activities related to 'fair trade' bananas, which are now on the market in several Member States.

The Commission has taken note of the growing interest in 'fair trade' products, and has been investigating what further support could be offered to 'fair trade' initiatives in a World trade organisation (WTO) compatible manner. The results of this investigation should be available in the near future. As part of this analysis, an Eurobarometer survey assessed the level of demand for 'fair trade' bananas. The results of this survey, which are of assistance to those who wish to promote 'fair trade' products, show that there is considerable demand from Community consumers.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-1428/98 by John Iversen (PSE) to the Council (11 May 1998)

Subject: Football international between Germany and Nigeria

According to the British Presidency, does the international between Germany and Nigeria on 22 April 1998 conflict with the boycott imposed by the EU countries on Nigeria? The EU countries have undertaken to impose extensive sanctions, including a sports boycott, on Nigeria.

A friendly between Germany and Nigeria cannot be compared to a world cup match for which Nigeria has been granted an exemption. Entry permits for Nigerian players to participate in a two-nation friendly on German territory must therefore conflict with EU sanctions.

Joint answer to Written Questions P-1386/98 and E-1428/98 (6 July 1998)

The European Union has repeatedly expressed its grave concern at the situation in Nigeria. The Council reflected this on 28 November 1997 with its decision to extend the EU Common Position on Nigeria of 4 December 1995 (95/544/CFSP) until 1 November 1998. The Council remains firmly committed to securing change in Nigeria, to which it believes the measures set out against Nigeria in Common Position 95/544/CFSP, including the interruption of EU-Nigeria sporting links, are making a useful contribution.

Article 1, paragraphe 2, of Council Decision 97/820/CFSP on the implementation of Common Position 95/544/CFSP allows Member States to decide not to apply the restrictions on sporting links in order to fulfil prior undertakings given in respect of sporting events organised by international sports federations, that is to say the 1998 World Cup finals and matches already organised in preparations for it and the 1998 World Basketball Championships. The match between Germany and Nigeria on 22 April 1998 was a preparatory match for the World Cup already organised before the adoption of Council Decision 97/820/CFSP. The Council was aware of this at the time it adopted this Decision and agreed that Germany could issue visas to members of the Nigerian team. Germany did not, therefore, contravene Common Position 95/544/CFSP by issuing them.

The Council is satisfied that Member States are complying fully with Common Position 95/544/CFSP and Council Decision 97/820/CFSP on its implementation. The latter implies no change EU policy towards Nigeria and no relaxation of EU measures against it. Indeed, the Council's Conclusions of 28 November 1997 accompanying the Decision to renew Common Position 95/544/CFSP make it clear that if elections in Nigeria this year fail to permit a return to democracy and the rule of law before 1 October 1998, the EU will adopt measures in addition to those adopted in Common Position 95/544/CFSP.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-1091/98 by Graham Mather (PPE) to the Commission (7 April 1998)

Subject: Draft Directive on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the advertising of tobacco products

Has the Commission conducted an economic impact study in relation to this proposed directive, in particular in relation to the advertising industry and the world of sport and its related industries?

Answer given by the Flynn on behalf of the Commission (30 April 1998)

No economic impact study was made by the Commission in relation to this proposal for a directive. It is aimed at approximating the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States on the advertising and sponsorship of tobacco products with a view to eliminating barriers within the internal market. As such, an estimate of its impact would be difficult to establish given the existing restrictions at Member State level, and the effect which transitional periods provided in the common position adopted by the Council on 12 February 1998 will have on all the sectors concerned. A further element to be considered is the expected reduction in tobacco consumption, estimated by the World health organisation to be responsible for over 500 000 deaths per year in the Community.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-1108/98 by Spalato Belleré (NI) and Cristiana Muscardini (NI) to the Council (15 April 1998)

Subject: Foreign Secretary Cook's visit to Israel

At the end of the recent visit by British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, a diplomatic incident was sparked off by a meeting, which was not part of the official schedule, between the EU representative and representatives of the Palestinian Authority at the Har Homà settlement.

The Israeli authorities objected to the meeting, complaining that it did not form part of official negotiations on a resumption of the peace process and in fact constituted a blatant case of interference in relations between the Israeli Government and the Palestinian authorities.

As the United Kingdom currently holds the Presidency, British Foreign Secretary Cook was acting as representative of the fifteen EU Member States.

Certain political stances taken by Mr Cook were not agreed by the Member States, nor do they in any way represent the unanimous view of EU countries on the Middle East crisis.

The European Union intends to play a leading role in the resumption of the Middle East peace process.

Does the Council agree that Foreign Secretary Cook's behaviour was inopportune, inappropriate and counterproductive in terms of the role which Europe wishes to play as an intermediary in the peace process?

Answer (6 July 1998)

During his trip to the Middle East on 15-18 March 1998 the President of the Council inter alia visited Har Homa/Jabal Abu Ghneim, the site of a projected new Israeli settlement in the Occupied Territories. The visit was included on the Council President's official schedule by common agreement.

The visit was quite in keeping with the European Union's clearly stated opposition to the establishment of settlements in the Occupied Territories. When the building plans for Har Homa were announced in March 1997, the Presidency-in-Office spelt out the Council position, stating: 'The EU disapproves of this move. It clearly prejudges the outcome of the Permanent Status negotiations. The EU reiterates its policy that all settlement activities in the Occupied Territories contravene international law and are a major obstacle to peace.'

Plans for the visit by the President of the Council were approved by the Foreign Affairs Ministers at their informal meeting in Edinburgh on 13 and 14 March 1998. Following the visit, the Council endorsed the approach adopted by the President of the Council during his visit to the region, and in particular his visit to Har Homa/Jabal Abu Ghneim, and adopted conclusions to that effect.
WRITTEN QUESTION P-1267/98 by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission (21 April 1998)

Subject: Violation of fundamental rights of Olympic Airways' workers

The 1989 Social Charter of workers' fundamental social rights, which forms part of the EC Treaties, clearly states in Article 18 that information, consultation and participation must be implemented in due time in cases where workers are affected by the employment policy pursued by their employer.

Moreover, Article 2 of Directive 75/129/EEC ((OJ L 48, 22.2.1975, p. 29. )), as amended, on collective redundancies states that 'where an employer is contemplating collective redundancies, he shall begin consultation with the workers' representatives in good time' and continues in Article 2(3) with 'To enable workers' representatives to make constructive proposals, the employers shall supply them with all relevant information, notify them in writing of the reasons for the redundancies and of the number and categories to be made redundant'.

A draft law submitted unexpectedly to the Greek Parliament proposes radical changes affecting the fundamental labour rights of Olympic Airways' workers (such as collective redundancies), the provisions of which are not even known to the management of the company.

Will the Commission examine to what extent this procedure and the substance of the draft law are consistent with the letter and the spirit of the Social Charter of workers' rights and the above-mentioned directive?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission (26 May 1998)

It is only after national provisions have been adopted and duly notified to the Commission by the Member States that the Commission may intervene, if there is reason to believe that Community law has been violated.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0333/98 by Thomas Megahy (PSE) to the Council (17 February 1998)

Subject: Violation by the United States authorities of rights guaranteed by the Vienna Convention on consular relations

Between 60 and 100 foreign nationals have been condemned to death in the United States of America and are currently awaiting execution. At least 8 of these are citizens of Member States of the European Union. Under Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on consular relations, to which the United States is a signatory, every foreign national should in such circumstances be given access to his or her consul. Few of the condemned prisoners have been given such access.

Could the Council state what action either it or any of its constituent Member State authorities intends to take, or intends to request the Commission to take, in relation to this clear violation of both human rights and civilised behaviour?

Answer (13/14 July 1998)

The Council regrets that in some cases, whether at state or federal level, the authorities concerned do not notify consular officials as they should.

As a party to the Vienna Convention on consular relations, the United States is required to apply its provisions, including those concerning consular officials' access to individuals in prison. It is for the Member States of the European Union to protect the interests of their nationals in the United States and, where appropriate, to intervene with the competent United States authorities to resolve any problems that their consular representations may encounter. If there is no diplomatic or consular representation of the Member State of the citizen concerned, then, in accordance with Article 8C of the Treaty establishing the European Community, he or she will be entitled to protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any Member State represented, on the same conditions as the nationals of that State.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0886/98 by Bill Miller (PSE) to the Commission (26 March 1998)

Subject: Access to documentation

Where the Commission possesses documentation which it has not produced and which has been referred to in order to reach a decision, should that documentation not be made public when requested?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission (22 April 1998)

The Commission would inform the Honourable Member that, in accordance with the code of conduct on public access to Commission and Council documents, referred to in the answer to his Written Question E-885/98 ((OJ C 310, 9.10.1997, p. 14. )), the Commission gives access only to its own documents. People who request a copy of a document that does not originate with the Commission are referred to the document's author.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0536/98 by Giuseppe Rauti (NI) to the Commission (4 March 1998)

Subject: Prevention of severe damage to the environment in Porto Corsini, Ravenna

In the region of Porto Corsini (Ravenna) signatures are being collected for various petitions protesting against threatened severe damage to the ecology of this area and in particular to the belt of pine-wood known as the Pineta Staggioni on the north side of Porto Corsini.

What action does the Commission intend to take to ensure compliance with the EEC environmental constraint (SIC-BIO-Italy IT No 47.000005)?

Given that the Pineta Staggioni is subject to an environmental constraint, that the Council of Europe and the European Union have been continually monitoring the problem and cooperating in the conservation of this exceptionally beautiful ecological area and that the threatened change in the regional landscaping plan would immediately involve, inter alia, the felling of at least 2400 pine trees, many of which are hundreds of years old, is the Commission prepared to take urgent measures?

In addition to the EEC environmental constraint (SIC-BIO-Italy No 47.000005), it should be pointed out that the Pineta Staggioni is also scheduled for inclusion in the Po Delta park and that there are plans to request economic aid for that park from the European Union. The refusal of such aid, if 2400 pine trees were felled in the Pineta Staggioni and the environmental constraint imposed on it at present were not observed, might also be a deterrent.

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission (8 April 1998)

The site of 'Pineta di Casalborsetti, Pineta Staggioni, Duna di Porto Corsini', has been proposed by Italy as a site of Community importance in the framework of Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora ((OJ L 206, 22.7.1992. )).

Article 6 sets the rules to be followed in order to assess the coherence of a plan with the objectives of the directive. This article has been transposed in the Italian legislation through presidential decree 08/09/97 No 357.

In order to assess compliance with the Community legislation, the Commission has requested further information from the Italian authorities.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0808/98 by Hedy d'Ancona (PSE) to the Commission (26 March 1998)

Subject: Report entitled 'An appraisal of technologies of political control - interim study', drawn up by STOA (the European Parliament's Scientific and Technological Options Assessment) (PE 166.499./Int.St.)

Given the efforts made by the European Parliament to provide guarantees for the protection of individuals' privacy, what implications does the Commission see in the threats thereto of 'horizontal proliferation' of new technologies noted in the report entitled 'An appraisal of technologies of political control - interim study', drawn up by STOA (the European Parliament's Scientific and Technological Options Assessment) (PE 166.499./Int.St.)?

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0807/98, E-0808/98 and E-0809/98 given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission (7 May 1998)

The Commission takes the view that it has no jurisdiction in this matter.
WRITTEN QUESTION E-1024/98 by Christof Tannert (PSE) to the Commission (6 April 1998)

Subject: Community assistance for the Federal German 'Land' of Berlin in 1997

What amounts of Community assistance were authorized and taken up for the Federal German 'Land' of Berlin in 1997, for what measures and under what programmes, more particularly:

1. Under the European Regional Development Fund?

2. Under the European Social Fund?

3. Under Community research programmes?

4. Under Community programmes in the energy sector?

5. Under Community programmes in the environment sector?

6. Under other Community programmes?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission (11 May 1998)

Because of the length of the answer, which includes a number of tables, the Commission is sending it direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament's Secretariat.