Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2004
112 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had contact with the Spanish Government regarding the effects of an urban development activity plan sanctioned by the Valencia Government (details supplied); if his Department has assessed the number of Irish citizens who have property in the Valencia area who are affected by the new law; and if his Department has been in contact with the European Commission regarding this issue. [24055/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs a reflection of the concern of EU governments, the EU ambassadors to Spain, including the Irish ambassador, have on a number of occasions raised with the Spanish authorities the law in question — Ley Reguladora de la Actividada Urbanística, LRAU — which was adopted by the regional government of Valencia and which relates to local land use. The law affects both Spanish and foreign nationals. The Irish Embassy has, in addition, raised the issue directly with the authorities in Valencia, who appear to have autonomy regarding this particular matter.
The committee on petitions of the European Parliament in May sent a fact finding mission to Valencia to study the implications of this law. The mission met with the local authorities and with some of the property owners who have been affected by the law. The committee's report, which issued on 6 July 2004, highlighted some of the serious difficulties that have flowed from the law, and was strongly critical of its effect.
The Irish embassy has been approached by a small number of Irish citizens who have raised concerns about the practical impact of the law on property owners in Valencia. Together with our EU partners, we are examining how the concerns in this matter could best be further pursued with the Spanish national and regional authorities.
