Expansion of the Natura 2000 network in Galicia

Question for written answer  E-001117/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Idoia Villanueva Ruiz (The Left)

Although 11.74% of its surface area has protected status Galicia continues to be have one of the EU’s lowest rates of participation in the Natura 2000 network. A decision to extend the Natura 2000 network in Galicia was approved in March 2012, but 10 years later no record of this is to be found. Many of these areas are now being used as commercial eucalyptus plantations or have lost much of their natural value owing to other activities.

It was for this reason that the Institute of Mining Studies of Val Miñor informed the Commission that several applications for permits for wind energy projects were being processed in areas that were supposed to be part of the expanded Natura 2000 Network. The EU's recommendation that protected areas should not be surrounded by wind turbines should be noted.

• 1.Does the Commission intend to open an investigation into this irregular state of affairs, for which the Xunta (Government) of the Autonomous Community of Galicia is responsible?
• 2.Will the Commission investigate these applications which the Xunta is approving, running roughshod over the rules on protected areas and the will of the legislator?