Source: European Parliament
18.10.2024
Question for written answer E-002181/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)
Yachting holidays are a tourism trend that is on the rise. Yachting takes place on a range of vessels of different sizes, small or large, under the guidance of certified skippers or merchant seamen.
The Adriatic-Ionian macroregional area and the Greek seas in general are a global magnet, since there is an abundance of choice with different meteorological patterns and locations, available for sailing for sport or tourism in both areas that are busy and others that are less frequented. This contributes to the economies of coastal regions, particularly those that have marinas, and provides work to qualified technicians.
Unfortunately, the growing interest is the result of the closed market for scheduled passenger vessels. In a sense, yachting contributes to non geographically-restricted development. The challenges lie in the delayed development of infrastructure in relation to the boat supply industry, and the lack of specialist labour (such as technicians and certified crew members).
In view of this:
- 1.How can municipalities gain access to preferential financing to address the lack of infrastructure in marinas/berthing facilities, boat repair and maintenance facilities, sanitation and water and energy supply systems?
- 2.Does the Commission believe that Directives 2008/106/ΕC and 2005/36/ΕC are sufficient to provide a legislative framework for Member States to cover their needs in terms of qualified staff?
- 3.Unfortunately, yachts not infrequently fly the flags of tax havens, because of tax and bureaucracy. Does the Commission plan to take any legislative initiatives to strengthen yachting within our borders?
Submitted: 18.10.2024