EU-funded project in Baia Mare (Romania)

26.3.2014

Question for written answer E-003737-14
to the Commission
Rule 117
Sir Graham Watson (ALDE)

The European Union, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Romanian Government have funded a project for the wastewater and waste infrastructure in the Romanian town of Baia Mare. However, Amnesty International highlights that this project has led to forced evictions of Roma families in the Craica settlement in Baia Mare. Demolition orders have been issued for 21 homes. Residents were told that they would be allowed to rebuild their houses in another part of the Craica settlement, but Amnesty International suggests that the affected families have been prevented from rebuilding their homes elsewhere.

Is the Commission aware of this issue? Is it satisfied that an adequate impact assessment was conducted, especially with regard to those affected by the resettlement? What measures are in place to ensure human rights are upheld when Community funds are spent in such projects?

OJ C 346, 02/10/2014