Answer given by Mr Vella on behalf of the Commission

12.9.2016

The Commission is aware of the reorganisation of the different authorities in Italy mentioned by the Honourable Members.

The Commission is working with all Member States to make sure that they continue and increase their inter-agency cooperation to address wildlife trafficking, as foreseen in the EU Wildlife Action Plan which was endorsed by the Council through the Conclusions agreed on 20 June 2016. In that respect, it will follow with particular attention the situation in Italy, to make sure that the re-organisation mentioned by the Honourable Members does not undermine the cooperation between the different competent authorities and the effectiveness of the policy followed by Italy against wildlife trafficking.