Compatibility with EC law of the HRADF call for tenders for the Ellinikon site

23.4.2014

Question for written answer E-005220-14
to the Commission
Rule 117
Theodoros Skylakakis (ALDE)

In the call for tenders held by the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) for the site of the former Hellinikon airport, which the Commission is very well informed about owing to the presence of the observers it has appointed to the Board of HRADF, the investor finally selected will carry out infrastructure projects worth EUR 1.25 billion, which it of course considers to be part of the final price, i.e. liabilities of the Greek State. Moreover, Lamda Development has also made the payment of the price conditional upon the granting of a casino licence for the property.

In view of the above, will the Commission say:

Was this tender procedure held in accordance with EC law, in particular the directives concerning infrastructure projects and public procurement? If not, on what grounds was it exempted?

In any case, is it acceptable, in the light of the general principles of EC law, for conditional offers to be accepted?

Did the original terms of the tender procedure which originally generated investor interest include the granting of a casino licence?

Were the bidders who were shortlisted to take part in the call for tenders aware that a licence would be granted to run a casino?

OJ C 426, 27/11/2014