Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 February 2005
351 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will confirm that he had no prior knowledge of the recent eight EU infringement proceedings against Ireland and only learned of them through the Commission press release, as he stated to the media; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2875/05]
View answerI can confirm that I had no knowledge of the European Commission's press release until issued by the Commission. There has, however, been ongoing correspondence between my Department and the Commission regarding the cases referred to in the question.
The European Commission has the power to take infringement proceedings against member states where it considers that legislation has not been transposed or has been improperly transposed. In line with that prerogative, the Commission raises issues in correspondence with member states, and if agreement is not reached on how to address the issue, may take a case to the European Court of Justice. My Department is in ongoing communication with the Commission on a range of issues at any given time and in addition meets Commission officials regularly to identify how issues of alleged non-compliance can best be addressed. A high priority is being given to addressing outstanding issues in consultation with the Commission and relevant stakeholders.
Regarding the complaints procedure operated by the Commission, it is a matter of concern to me that the member state does not have sight of any original complaint made to the Commission and is not told who the complainant may be or what steps the complainant has taken to address issues within national procedures. I look forward to addressing that issue further with the Commission at an appropriate opportunity with a view to securing greater transparency in the Commission's proceedings. I am keenly aware of the importance of timely transposition and effective implementation of EU environmental legislation and fully support the efforts made by my Department and partner bodies and agencies in that regard.
