Maritime Safety: Commission requests Italy to comply with new standards
for equipment placed on board ship
Brussels, 31 May 2012 - The European Commission has today asked Italy to
adopt national legislation implementing the latest marine equipment standards,
as introduced by EU law.
The Commission's request takes the form of a reasoned opinion under EU
infringement procedures
If Italy fails to inform the Commission within two months of the measures it
has taken to ensure full compliance with EU law, the Commission could refer the
case to the European Court of Justice.
The EU rules
The marine equipment directive aims at reaching a uniform application of
international standards on marine equipment in the EU and facilitating free
movement of marine equipment within the internal market.
It applies to items such as lifesaving appliances, fire protection or radio
communication equipment on board European ships, guaranteeing a high level of
quality and safety
In 2010, the Commission updated the existing rules on marine equipment
The reason for the action
Italy has failed to notify the Commission of the measures taken to enforce
the revised marine equipment rules
These amendments should have been fully transposed by 10 December 2011.
The practical effect of non-transposition
The marine equipment directive is updated on a regular basis to ensure that
equipment on board European ships complies with the most up to date
requirements.
The lack of timely transposition undermines the uniform implementation of
these new safety rules within the internal market, with impact on maritime
safety.
Europe has a strong marine equipment manufacturing industry and is a net
exporter to the world
The European marine industry is a high value added sector and employs
directly more than 287,000 people in around 5500 companies.
Together with Germany, the United Kingdom, The Netherlands and France, Italy
is one of the key European players for marine equipment production.