Asbestos still present in public buildings

21.7.2014

Question for written answer E-005854-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
João Ferreira (GUE/NGL)

The presence of asbestos has been detected in certain public buildings in Portugal, as highlighted by various organisations, including trade unions. These organisations are calling for transparency through the release of information detailing which buildings still contain asbestos in their structures, and the material’s prompt removal. In some cases, a correlation has been highlighted between the presence of asbestos and the high proportion of cancer-related deaths among workers and ex-workers from a number of departments.

In light of this, can the Commission say how it is following up this question and any complaints filed by Portuguese organisations?

Does it know of any specific cases or action taken to date or that will be taken in the near future?