Brussels, 08/01/2001 (Agence Europe) - The Belgian Government has decided to launch an audit on the accounts and works of the firm Berlaymont 2000, which is responsible for removing asbestos and renovating the Berlaymont, the former seat of the European Commission. This decision was announced after two Belgian senators denounced, in a "Berlaymont Black Book", high overruns in the cost of the works (see EUROPE of 6 January, page 7). The senators threatened to set up a parliamentary committee "if the government does not take action". A finance inspector will be charged with conducting the audit.
The audit by Belgian authorities and the audit conducted by a consulting firm at the request of the European Commission will contribute to preparation of the meeting to be held in later January or early February between Belgian Minister Rik Daems and European Commissioner Neil Kinnock. "This meeting will serve to finalise the date for the end of the works and the final cost", explained the Minister's spokesman.