Bay Pollution - European Commission Lobbying

Statement issued by the PDP

Earlier this year and as part of its wider lobbying effort the Progressive Democratic Party wrote to the European Commission in relation to the topic of bay pollution and the health risks this represents. The Party has also made clear its support for the efforts of the ESG in this respect.

A few weeks ago the Party received a letter from the European Commission's Directorate General on the Environment that, among other points, made clear that the Commission was awaiting a response from Spain on the issue of bay pollution and expected to receive it within a month. The letter from the Commission also revealed that the information within the possession of the Commission was dated and did not take account of more recent information that has since emerged.

Given that the PDP's Environment spokesman, Dr Gavin Gafan, is writing to the European Commission to enquire as to the reply given by Spain in relation to the bay pollution complaints and updating the Commission on the more recent report issued by Denny Larson of the Global Community Monitor in collaboration with the ESG that makes clear the harmful level of benzene emissions emitted by the CEPSA refinery with the consequent negative effects on public health. The Party is urging the Commission to investigate this matter vigorously and take such action as may be necessary to address the situation.