European Commission
united-kingdom

1 June 2006

EIB loan for water infrastructure improvements

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a loan of £59 million in support of Water Service’s large-scale investment programme to upgrade and expand Northern Ireland’s water infrastructure. The project will improve the quality of drinking water, in accordance with EU legislation. Under the first major Private Public Partnership (PPP) in the drinking water sector in Northern Ireland, the EIB will provide funding alongside RBC Capital Markets and ING to the private sector partner, Dalriada Water Ltd, a special purpose company selected following an international call for tender. Dalriada is owned by Kelda Water Services Ltd, a subsidiary of Kelda Group and Earth Tech. It will design, build, finance and operate four upgraded water treatment works, under a 25-year contract granted by the Department for Regional Development Water Service. The project will provide about 50% of Northern Ireland’s water capacity and ensure full compliance with two EU directives on drinking water.

Commission launches climate change campaign

The European Commission has launched an awareness-raising campaign "You control climate change", which challenges individuals to make small changes to their daily routine in order to achieve significant reductions of greenhouse gas emissions. It offers a wealth of practical and easy-to-do tips while aiming to give people a sense of personal responsibility in the fight against climate change. Households in the EU are responsible for some 16% of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions, most of which comes from the production and use of energy. "For the Commission action against climate change is a priority," said President Barroso. "This campaign complements and reinforces our political and legislative efforts. It makes clear to which extent we all are responsible for climate change and what individuals can and need to do to limit this threat." For further information go to: http://www.climatechange.eu.com

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European Commission responds to the Indonesia earthquake

In the wake of the earthquake that struck Java in Indonesia last weekend, the European Commission has provided €3 million of relief funding to meet immediate needs including temporary accommodation and water. The Commission’s Monitoring and Information Centre, which coordinates civil protection, has also sent civil protection assessment and coordination experts to the site of the earthquake to assess the needs for further assistance.

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Consultations

Commission launches public consultation on reform of fruit and vegetables market

The European Commission has launched a consultation on the future of the Common Market Organisation for fresh and processed fruit and vegetables. The Commission’s proposal on the reform of the fruit and vegetables is due to be published in November 2006. (The consultation runs until 13 July 2006)

For information on any of the above items, please contact Catherine McShane on 028 9024 0708 or email catherine.mcshane@ec.europa.eu