Cohesion Funds

14.10.2013

Question for written answer E-011662-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Carmen Romero López (S&D)

As part of the operational programme of the Cohesion Fund 2007-2013, Spain wished to create a high-capacity rail network, in accordance with Directive 96/48/EC on the interoperability of the trans-European high-speed rail system, transposed into national law by Royal Decree No 1191/2000. The Commission established its priorities for action regarding transport and aid for the trans-European transport networks (TEN-T), and in particular the priority projects in terms of European interest. Against this background, the strategic goals of Spain’s National Strategic Reference Framework 2007-2013 (NSRF) set out various actions for high-speed rail interventions. On 7 December 2007, the Commission also approved an operational programme of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) in accordance with the convergence objective in the autonomous communities of Andalusia, Castile-La Mancha, Extremadura and Galicia, and under the Cohesion Fund for the entire territory of Spain.

Being very close to the end of the agreed period for finalising the complete plan for approved major high-speed rail projects, 31 December 2013, and with its construction having to be completed by 31 December 2015 and the service put into operation in March 2017, it is very important to find out what stage has been reached in the implementation of the major projects submitted by Spain and the funds used, as well as which projects, having failed to meet the deadlines agreed in the corresponding regulation, have to be reconsidered or have lost the Community aid agreed.

What is the state play with regard to the planning, implementation and financial compliance of each and every one of the high-speed rail major projects that were submitted by Spain and whose inclusion in the Community support framework 2007-2013 was agreed by the European Union? Which of these are blatantly at risk of failing to meet the deadlines agreed in European regulations?

OJ C 218, 10/07/2014