Spanish polluting spills into Western Beach, Gibraltar
30.11.2015
Question for written answer E-015252-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Molly Scott Cato (Verts/ALE)
In answer (P-004804/2015), the Commission confirmed that it was aware of the pollution by sewage in bathing waters at Western Beach, Gibraltar, caused by the diversion of a storm drain in La Linea de la Concepcion, Spain, and claimed to have contacted the Spanish authorities to gather information.
In a previous answer (E-007377/2014), the Commission stated that it would follow up the Spanish authorities' proposals to alleviate the problem, including a foreseen EUR 6.5 million investment to remove waste water from rainwater collection systems and ensure regular monitoring of discharge points.
The situation has not improved, and concern is escalating. According to the Bathing Water Quality Directive (2006/7/EC), the Member States must ensure that the quality of all bathing waters for the 2016 bathing season is at least ‘sufficient’. Data suggests that, unless the problem is resolved quickly, bathing at Western Beach will have to be prohibited for 2016.
Can the Commission confirm:
- 1.Whether it has ascertained the steps taken by Spanish authorities to conduct necessary infrastructural works to alleviate pollution at this site and if so, what have these been?
- 2.When it is envisaged that these works will be completed?
- 3.Whether any EU funding has been granted to Spanish authorities for this project?