Source: European Parliament
29.10.2024
Priority question for written answer P-002298/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Daniel Attard (S&D)
European citizens can easily drive across Europe with their driving licences, but sailing across borders with their boating licences remains a challenge. This gap in the single market not only hinders leisure and tourism businesses, but also affects professional skippers of small commercial vessels, leading to a workforce challenge. The Commission aims to address this by working towards the recognition of boating licences across the EU and moving towards a system of mutual recognition. The International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft already exists and is issued under Resolution No 40 of the UN Economic Commission for Europe. However, only a small number of EU countries have adopted it. Expanding this initiative to a certification system, initially designed for recreational boaters to facilitate crossing borders, could further streamline cross-border boating activities and reduce bureaucratic red tape. This move holds the potential to simplify processes, enhance safety standards, grow the boating industry, and promote a more unified boating experience across Europe.
- 1.How does the Commission plan to establish the recognition of boating licences across the EU and introduce a harmonised boat licence/licencing system or mutual recognition system in the EU?
- 2.How can this be expanded to a unified certification system, maybe with the wider application of Resolution No 40 of the UN Economic Commission for Europe?
Submitted: 29.10.2024