Budget for combating HCH and lindane pollution

19.9.2017

Question for written answer E-005828-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Josu Juaristi Abaunz (GUE/NGL)

In several locations in the autonomous community of the Basque Country — the Oiola reservoir in Barakaldo and the stretch of the Zadorra river in Araba, among others — water for human consumption is continually being polluted by HCH and lindane, potentially jeopardising the health of local residents.

In a statement of 3 June 2016 (D 310678), the Chair of Parliament’s Committee on Petitions pointed out that the Spanish authorities were implementing an ongoing project to combat HCH and lindane pollution, with a budget of EUR 15 million. On various occasions, fellow Members of this Parliament have contacted the Spanish authorities and those of the autonomous government of the Basque country, which both claim to be unaware of the existence of any such project.

1. Is the Commission aware of this plan, and if so, what are its intended lines of action?

2. What is the timetable for its implementation?

3. Which locations in the autonomous communities of the Basque Country and Navarre does the plan cite as areas for action?