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Press release 29th September 2004
Satu Hassi MEP
Commission hearings:
Greens doubt Dimas's environmental commitment
Commenting on today's parliametary hearing session for
Environment Commissioner designate Stavros Dimas, Satu
Hassi, Finnish Green MEP and Vice-President of the
Environment Committee, said:
"Today's hearing has confirmed our fears that the new
Commission intends to downgrade environmental protection.
In his responses to questions from MEPs Stavros Dimas
demonstrated a worrying lack of environmental commitment
and vision. He also failed to present any sort of clear
action plan for his potential new role."
"The Greens doubt that Dimas is up to the job of
Environment Commissioner. He is an economic and legal
affairs specialist and during his political career he
was Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry. But Europe
has to meet important environmental challenges in the
coming years, including the adoption of further measures
against climate change at a European and international
level and the introduction of a new legislative
framework on chemicals policy that effectively protects
human health and the environment. For this to happen we
need a strong Environmental Commissioner who will act as
a determined lobbyist for the environment and can stand
up to strong pressure from industry. We find it hard to
take on trust that Dimas will acquire the necessary
qualifications by learning on the job."
"The Commissioner designate made a series of very
worrying statements today that gave the impression that
he wants to push responsibility for environmental
policies towards Members States. Europe needs a
Commissioner who will take the lead on environmental
policies rather than merely reacting to what national
governments are willing to undertake."
"Commission President Barroso should think again about
whether he has chosen the right portfolio for Mr Dimas.
We do not believe that he has."
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