Irregularities in the construction of the high-speed rail network in the Basque Country and Navarre

21.1.2015

Question for written answer E-000739-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Josu Juaristi Abaunz (GUE/NGL)

The cost of the high-speed rail infrastructure in the Basque Autonomous Community (BAC) — Alava, Biscay and Gipuzkoa — amounts to around EUR 10 billion. This project was designed and approved on the basis of economic, social and political factors more than 10 years ago, which means that it is now totally out of date and does not reflect the current situation. Furthermore, its viability is seriously open to question.

Evidence of corruption and misappropriation of resources in the construction of this high-speed rail network is constantly coming to light. Unjustifiable costs amounting to millions of euros have been detected in the Basque Country and Navarre, with money being wasted on useless bridges, such as the one at Zaratamo. Furthermore, irregularities have been detected that have caused the deaths of workers.

1. Is the Commission aware of the irregularities that have been committed in the construction of this high-speed rail network and of the cost over-runs that have occurred in practically all the stretches of the line, which may be in receipt of EU funds?

2. What mechanisms does the EU have available to investigate such irregularities and cost over-runs, and what measures does the Commission adopt in such cases?

3. Has the Commission found any irregularities in contracts awarded to construction companies that involve EU funding?