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During his hearing for the role of European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis was questioned by Dutch MEP Anja Hazekamp regarding the Pendakomou waste management plant issue. Hazekamp asked, “If you cannot manage European law in your country, how will you manage it in the 27 [EU member states]?”
Kadis responded by clarifying that the Pendakomou plant was established under specific conditions and requirements, eight years before he became Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment. He emphasized that after taking office, he initiated an investigation into the matter, which is now before the courts. Kadis also pointed out that, under his direction, the company operating the plant terminated its contract with the government, and the case is following its legal course.
Kadis’ response aimed to address concerns over his ability to handle legal matters at a European level, especially regarding waste management and environmental regulations.
Despite the tough questioning regarding the Pendakomou waste management plant, Costas Kadis ultimately won approval for the role of European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans. His detailed response to concerns raised by Dutch MEP Anja Hazekamp, where he outlined his actions on the issue and emphasized the legal proceedings underway, helped assure the committee of his ability to manage European laws.
Following a positive vote from the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries (PECH), where Kadis received broad support from various political groups, his appointment was confirmed. The Cypriot nominee’s strong background in environmental policy, coupled with his focus on research-driven solutions, helped secure the confidence of MEPs, ensuring his successful appointment to the European Commission.