Brussels, 11/10/2011 (Agence Europe) - EU27 environment ministers are hoping for a 7th Environment Action Programme (EAP). They reiterated their request in Luxembourg on 10 October given the final results of assessment of the 6th EAP for 2002-2012 (see EUROPE 10442). In its unanimous conclusions, the Environment Council therefore invites the Commission to present a successor to the 6th action programme early 2012 and to prepare, as soon as possible, a second action plan for the environment and health given that the first expired end 2010, leaving a legal void. Andrzej Kraszewski, presiding the Council, told the press that the roadmap towards an effective Europe in the use of resources will be an integral part of the 7th EAP.
The Commission would prefer to wait for the second half of 2012 before presenting a 7th action programme, especially in order to have the opinion of the Parliament on assessment of the 6th programme, due at the end of the year. Denying having ever opposed a 7th action programme, Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik said it was necessary, on the other hand, to consult the parties concerned, saying: “I am convinced a 7th action programme can be an effective instrument taking into account the fact that 2012 is not 2002 and the need to work towards mutual integration of policies. Ministers want strategic focus in order to bring about added value, and avoid the stumbling block of the 6th action programme that was too fragmented. The 7th action programme adopted in codecision will be binding. We are enthusiastic and want to consult the parties interested”.
As for the 2nd Environment and Health Action Plan, the Commission considers this reference is premature since its modalities will only be clear after the development of the 7th EAP. It could be a specific action plan or be integrated in the future 7th EAP. (AN/transl.jl)