Dutch Kingdom at the fore in Europe: questions regarding Isla refinery on Curaçao sent to the European Commission.

Date: 14 februari 2015
Question for written answer E-000267/2015/rev.1

To the Commission
Rule 130
Bas Eickhout (Verts/ALE)

Subject:  Emissions from the Isla refinery on Curaçao: decades of negligent administration by Dutch Council of Ministers

The Isla refinery (hereinafter Isla) on Curaçao has for several decades been emitting toxic substances into the soil, air and water, resulting in at least 18 premature deaths per year and serious biodiversity loss[1]. Isla has been proved to be acting unlawfully, using a permit with  environmental standards much less stringent than those of the EU. Nevertheless, no administrative action has yet been taken, either by the government of Curaçao or by the Dutch Council of Ministers[2].

Is the Commission aware of the adverse effect of Isla on biodiversity and public health?
Does the Commission agree that the Isla situation is in contravention of Articles 3(1)(d), 198 and 199(3) of the TFEU?
What measures will the Commission take to ensure that the Council of Ministers of the Netherlands shoulders its responsibilities?
[1]     http://www.stichtingsmoc.nl/2011/01/onderzoek-telt-dubbel-en-dwars-ecorys-nei-2005/

http://www.stichtingsmoc.nl/2011/01/onderzoek-telt-tno-2007/

http://www.carmabi.org/consultancy/environmental-studies

http://www.stichtingsmoc.nl/2014/10/van-smoc-brief-voor-hennis-en-plasterk

Bron: SMOC