The European Commission has decided to refer Spain to the Court of Justice for not reviewing and updating its River Basin Management Plans for the seven river basin districts in the Canary Islands.

River basin management plans are the foundation of the Water Framework Directive and provide a comprehensive overview of the main issues for each river basin district. They should also include the specific measures needed to achieve environmental quality objectives.

Spain had to review and update all River Basin Management Plans on its territory by 22 December 2015 and to inform the Commission of these measures by 22 March 2016. The Spanish authorities have also failed to ensure compliance with the public information and consultation obligations for establishing the plans.

The Commission said it has repeatedly urged Spain to fulfil its obligations: firstly, by sending a letter of formal notice in April 2017 and secondly, by issuing a reasoned opinion - in October 2017.

In October 2012, the Court of Justice of the EU declared the failure by Spain to adopt and communicate the first River Basin Management Plans.