Government faced with legal action if AP-9 tolls aren't publicly tendered, Brussels warns
The European Commission has taken action against Spain for extending motorway concessions, including the AP-9 and AP-66, without proper tender procedures. Specifically, Spain extended the duration of these concessions by 25 and 29 years, respectively, and subsequently sold the concessionaires without adhering to the required tender processes[1]. This action has been identified as part of a broader package of infringements addressed by the Commission.
The European Commission argues that the 25-year extension of the concession of AP-9 and the 29-year extension of AP-66 constitute substantial modifications and require tender procedures. They have urged Spain to respect the norms of the European Union in public procurement matters, specifically in relation to these highways[2].
The Spanish government has not released detailed responses to the European Commission's ruling on the AP-9 and AP-66 concession extensions. However, it is common for governments to argue for the need to ensure infrastructure continuity and economic stability. They might also emphasize plans to address any issues raised by the Commission.
Galician political parties have responded to the European Commission's ruling. The BNG leader, Ana Pontón, called for an "AP-9 that is Galician and free of toll fraud", believing the ruling also reveals the decision as illegal[3]. The PSdeG indicated that the ruling is a "fundamental decision to determine the cost of the rescue", pointing to the PP for the injustice caused by the extension of concessions for Galicia[4]. Despite the Galician PSOE governing, they have announced their intention to appeal the Commission's measure[5].
The European Commission has given Spain two months to respond to its ruling. If Spain does not comply with the request, Brussels could opt to take Spain to the European Union Court of Justice[6]. Spain has announced its intention to appeal the deadline set by the Commission[7]. It is important to note that the European Commission's reprimand is related to the AP-9 and AP-66 highways, not to any specific company or individual named in the article.
The European Commission's ruling does not specify the exact timeline or the consequences if Spain does not comply with its recommendations. The article does not provide information about the identity of the concessionaire companies of the AP-9 and AP-66. The European Commission's action serves as a reminder for governments to adhere to EU regulations in public procurement matters to ensure fair competition and transparency in infrastructure projects.
[1] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html [2] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html [3] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html [4] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html [5] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html [6] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html [7] Source: https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-03-16/investigacion/comision-europea-denuncia-a-espana-por-la-irregularidad-de-las-concesiones-de-ap-9-y-ap-66.html
- The European Commission's action against Spain for irregular concession extensions on the AP-9 and AP-66 highways emphasizes the importance of upholding EU norms in public procurement, not only within the industry but also in related fields such as finance, business, and politics.
- As a response to the European Commission's ruling, Galician political parties have voiced their concerns, with the BNG and PSdeG accusing the Spanish government of illegal decisions and injustice, especially pertaining to the AP-9 and AP-66 concessions.
- In the general news, the ongoing dispute between the European Commission and the Spanish government serves as a potent reminder to adhere to EU regulations in infrastructure projects, striving for fair competition, transparency, and ultimately, justice.
