|
WRITTEN QUESTION E-3536/01
by Chris Davies (ELDR) to the Commission
(10 December 2001)
Subject: Killing of migratory birds on Cyprus
When did the Commission last raise with the Cypriot authorities the issue of the capture in nets and subsequent killing of migratory birds, and what was the response? When will the Commission next be raising this issue?
Was the matter discussed at the meeting of the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention of 26-30 November? If so, what representations were made by the Commission, and what was the outcome of the meeting?
E-3536/01EN
Answer given by Mr. Verheugen
on behalf of the Commission
(6 February 2002)
Under the terms of the chapter of the enlargement negotiations relating to the environment, Cyprus has undertaken to implement the environmental acquis relating to nature protection and this includes the Birds Directive, Council Directive 79/409/EEC of 2 April 1979 on the conservation of wild birds.
The issue of the capture in nets and subsequent killing of migratory birds has been raised with the Cypriot authorities on a number of occasions over the last year, notably at the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention in November 2001 as well as at an international congress on wildlife game management held in Cyprus in September 2001. There has also been written communication with the Cyprus authorities on the issue.
The Cyprus authorities have informed the Commission that they recognise the problem referred to by the Honourable Member as an issue of major concern and agree the need for more stringent enforcement measures. They have informed the Commission that they are also taking action regarding restaurants and places where these protected species are illegally sold. The Commission has been informed that the authorities will be making further efforts in 2002 in an attempt to fully eliminate this activity and especially to influence the attitude of citizens. In the new legislation that will harmonise Cypriot law with the environmental acquis there are provisions on hunter education. The Commission will continue to monitor developments on this issue.
|
