Brussels, 16/03/2011 (Agence Europe) - After referring France to the Court of Justice of the EU for failure to comply with the IPPC directive (see EUROPE 10337), the European Commission decided on Monday 14 March to press ahead with a number of proceedings for failure to comply with EU environmental legislation. Reasoned opinions were sent to Italy, Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Cyprus. These countries now have two months to meet the terms of the Commission's demands. If, after a reasoned opinion has been sent, no satisfactory response is received, the Commission may refer the case to the European Court of Justice.
Italy. The Commission has asked Italy to comply with EU rules to ensure that a clean-up and re-development project on a former chemicals site in Cengio in the Liguria region does not pose risks to health or the environment. Hitherto, “Italy has failed to satisfactorily address the issue”, the Commission says.
Lithuania. The Commission has asked Lithuania immediately to bring its national legislation on assessing the effects of plans and programmes on the environment into line with EU rules. It says that, at present, legislation on strategic environmental assessments in Lithuania contains a number of shortcomings, in particular it does not provide the opportunity for the public to receive adequate information to understand the plans and programmes and be able to effectively express their opinion.
Czech Republic. The Commission has asked the Czech Republic to update its chemicals legislation and authorise the use of two biocides. Under European legislation, the rodenticide Flocoumafen and the wood preservative Tolylfluanide should be included on member states' lists of authorised substances. The Czech Republic has not yet, however, added these to its list of active substances which can be used in biocidal products. In the event of the Czech Republic's failing to comply with its legal obligation within two months, the Commission may refer this member state to the Court of Justice and may already ask the Court to impose financial sanctions at this stage, without having to return to the Court for a second ruling.
Cyprus. The Commission has asked Cyprus to comply with EU legislation requiring member states to draw up marine strategies to protect their seas. Cyprus has failed to inform the Commission about the transposition of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which should have been in place by 15 July 2010. (O.L./transl.rt)