Commission takes Greece to EU Court of Justice due to lack of new flood plans

She announced today that she would refer her to the EU Court of Justice, due to failure to complete the review of plans to deal with flooding. ‘Today the Commission decided to refer Greece to the Court of Justice of the European Union because it did not complete the review of the relevant river basin management plans as required by the Water Framework Directive, under Directive 2000/60/EC and flood risk management plans as required by the Flood Management Directive under Directive 2007/60/EC,’ says the Commission Communication. The Commission notes that ‘Greece has so far not reviewed, approved and submitted reports on its river basin management plans’, nor on ‘road flood risk management plans’. The Water Framework Directive focuses on ensuring, from a qualitative and quantitative point of view, the good condition of European water systems, such as rivers and lakes. It aims at reducing and eliminating pollution, as well as ensuring that there is sufficient water to support human needs and wildlife at the same time. It is an essential part of the European Green Agreement and is necessary to achieve its objectives for climate, nature and pollution reduction. In accordance with the Directive, every six years Member States should update their river basin management plans and submit relevant reports. These plans, which include a programme for measures, are decisive – as stated – to ensure that all water systems remain in good condition or that their good condition is achieved, as required by the Directive. ‘Plans of vital importance for flooding’ In addition, the Commission stresses that compliance with the Flood Directive is vital for flood preparedness and management. In accordance with the Flood Management Directive, Member States should update their flood risk management plans every six years and report on it. These projects are crucial to achieving the objectives of the Flood Directive, namely reducing and managing the risks posed by floods for human health, the environment, cultural heritage and economic activity. The Commission sent a letter of warning to Greece in February 2023. A reasoned opinion was followed in November 2023 inviting Greece to comply with its obligations and complete the review of its plans. However, the projects concerned have not yet been finalised. The Commission considers that the efforts made so far by the Greek authorities are insufficient and therefore refers Greece to the Court of Justice of the European Union.