Vol. 555 No. 1
189 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his views on the reprimand sent to his Department by the European Commission on 6 August 2001 which alleged failure to fulfil its obligations in assessing the effects on the environment of a number of key development projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17554/02]
On 6 August 2001, the European Commission issued a reasoned opinion to Ireland concerning implementation of various aspects of the EIA Directive (85/337/EEC, as amended by 97/11/EC). My Department has had detailed correspondence with the Commission in regard to the implementation of this directive. In addition, Commission officials met with officials from my Department on 19 February 2002 to explore the complex issues involved. Good progress was achieved and a follow up letter issued to the Commission on 26 April 2002. No further communication has been received from the Commission to date.
Question No. 190 answered with Question No. 186.
