EU aid for clean-up operation following the wreck of the Grande America
15.3.2019
Question for written answer P-001354-19
to the Council
Rule 130
Francesc Gambús (PPE)
The fire and subsequent sinking of the Italian merchant ship Grande America has caused a 10-km-long, 1-km-wide oil slick, to appear in the Atlantic, approaching the coast of France. According to certain reports,[1] the vessel was carrying dangerous pollutants such as sulphuric acid and hydrochloric acid.
1. Could the Council say whether the French authorities have requested the support of the European Maritime Safety Agency, as they are entitled to under Regulation (EU) No 100/2013,[2] for the containment and clean-up of this oil spillage?
2. If so, what resources have been made available to assist the French authorities?
3. In the event that the spill reaches the coast, is the Commission willing to mobilise the European Solidarity Corps[3] to assist in the coastal clean-up operation?