Problems of implementing the Habitats and Birds Directives in the Seine estuary (Seine-Maritime)

4.12.2014

Question for written answer E-010254-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Karima Delli (Verts/ALE)

Despite its classification as a Natura 2000 site, the Seine estuary is currently under threat.

In its present form, the nature reserve management plan does not ensure the protection of birds and biodiversity: intensive hunting is taking place throughout the reserve, even in areas providing shelter for migratory birds; chemical fertiliser is still being used in areas close to the estuary and early mowing of grass and reeds is not prohibited.

These policies are having an alarming impact on the biodiversity in the estuary. Despite this, the third nature reserve management plan, approved by the Seine-Maritime Prefect in July 2013, was also endorsed by the Commission. The area is also under threat from additional infrastructural projects, such as the building of a new access road (to the Tancarville bridge), which will take up 12 hectares of wetland.

1. Does the Commission intend to enforce the Habitats and Birds Directives in the Seine estuary?2. How does it propose to protect this wetland area from various projects that are threatening to further upset its already precarious balance?