Recreational craft

Key points:
The EESC

• welcomes the proposal which it considers to mark an important step forward on the road to reaching the EU's common goals;
• nevertheless feels that it is important to establish clearly that safety and emission standards apply to all waters, not just the seas, and that safety standards apply to all the relevant types of boat;
• considers that for smaller engines, provision could also be made for a shorter transitional period;
• believes that with regard to noise pollution, European monitoring of local regulations should be stepped up;
• would like to see the European Union seeking to be a standard bearer in the area of environmental rules and regulations ;
• expects the European Commission to involve the broadest possible groups in consultations and to ensure that the questionnaires are available and can be completed in all the participants' languages.

For more information please contact the INT Section Secretariat