Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001424/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Elena Kountoura (The Left)
By means of Law 3446/2006, Greece designated the Joint Inspection Teams (Μικτά Κλιμάκια Ελέγχου), which are made up of representatives from various control bodies and operate under the responsibility of the Regions, as the competent body for carrying out checks on road transport. However, in practice, these teams have essentially ceased to function effectively since 2017, due to the inability of the Regions to cover operational and staffing costs[1]. Therefore, checks are limited to the fragmented actions of the Greek police, customs authorities and the coast guard, with there being insufficient checks to meet the needs in all areas of the country[2].
This situation has serious consequences, such as tax evasion, unfair competition, illegal transport[3], undeclared goods, illegal cabotage, posted work, uncontrolled fuel movements and risks to public health. In view of the fact that the Commission has in the past initiated infringement proceedings against Greece in relation to this matter:
- 1.Is it aware of the inadequate functioning of the Joint Inspection Teams in Greece and of the impact thereof on the implementation of EU road transport law?
- 2.Does it intend to intervene, either authoritatively or by offering support, to restore the functioning of a full and effective control mechanism?
- 3.What measures does it intend to take to ensure that Greece complies with European legislation and that adequate checks are carried out on road transport?
Submitted: 8.4.2025
- [1] They do not have sufficient staff and are unable to cover the necessary costs relating to travel, overtime and field operations.
- [2] At the border, as well as in the inner parts of the country, there is no competent control mechanism to conduct checks effectively to ensure that freight consignments are transported legally and that the employment and work postings of drivers meet legal requirements.
- [3] The issue of illegal transport, mainly carried out by foreign trucks, is one of the most critical issues in road transport, as, according to industry professionals, the poor functioning of control mechanisms has led to a dramatic increase in this phenomenon in the last ten years at least. Illegal transport by lorries registered outside Greece results in unfair competition and distortion of the domestic market. At the same time, there are multiple financial infringements and a loss of public revenue resulting from the lack of effective control mechanisms for transported goods.