The use of cyanide
27.11.2019
Question for written answer E-004060/2019
to the Commission
Rule 138
Giorgos Georgiou (GUE/NGL), Niyazi Kizilyürek (GUE/NGL)
In 2017, the European Parliament called on Member States to ban the use of cyanide. Cyprus, which has not complied with the resolution, is becoming a dumping ground for of the world's mining waste, accepting thousands of tonnes of waste from various countries for treatment using cyanide and other chemicals, without the necessary environmental studies and authorisation procedures being carried out beforehand. The company that uses cyanide for the production of gold from mining waste is operating with an irregular licence, as regulations governing the use of cyanide have yet to be adopted.
The effects of cyanide use are evident in Skouriotissa, where the mine is located, and in the Lefka and Xerou area, where 12 million tonnes of mining waste are located. According to a WHO report, 600-800 people die each year in Cyprus due to poor air quality.
- 1.Is the Commission aware of the consequences of the authorisation to use cyanide issued in Cyprus?
- 2.What steps will the EU take to stop the use of cyanide and ensure compliance with the appropriate procedures in the mining industry and the rehabilitation of contaminated areas such as Skouriotissa, Lefka, Xerou, Mitsero, etc.?
- 3.Does the Commission intend to propose a directive on best practices in the management of mining waste?