Source: European Parliament
1. The Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) Directive[1] does not provide exemptions to the obligation to submit a maritime spatial plan by 31 March 2021. Therefore, under the MSP Directive the obligation to establish maritime spatial plans remains applicable irrespective of the existence of challenges regarding the delimitation of maritime zones with a third State. As guardian of the Treaties, the Commission ensures that all EU law obligations are complied with. An infringement procedure[2] against Greece for failure to adopt and submit maritime spatial plans has been referred to the Court of Justice and is now pending judgment.
2. As guardian of the Treaties, the Commission may take enforcement action in any case of non-compliance by a Member State with its obligations under EU law, including by pursuing infringement procedures. The Commission is committed to supporting Member States in completing their maritime spatial planning obligations. The Commission also engages in dialogue with Member States to address any challenges they may face in implementing the directive.
3. The Commission remains available to provide technical and financial support to facilitate the implementation of the maritime spatial planning acquis.
- [1] Directive 2014/89/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 July 2014 establishing a framework for maritime spatial planning.
- [2] https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byDecision&refId=INFR(2021)2226&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=decisionDate