The European Parliament adopted by 625 votes to 50 with 10 abstentions, a legislative resolution amending the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the minimum level of training of seafarers (recast).
The report had been tabled for consideration in plenary by Rodi KRATSA-TSAGAROPOULOU (EPP-ED, EL) on behalf of the Committee on Transport and Tourism.
The amendments - adopted under 1st reading of the codecision procedure – were the result of a compromise between Parliament and Council. The Commission proposal was approved as adapted to the recommendations of the Consultative Working Party of the Legal Services of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission.
Parliament also stated that Member States should take and enforce specific measures to prevent and penalise fraudulent practices associated with certificates of competency as well as pursue their efforts within the IMO to achieve strict and enforceable agreements on the worldwide combating of such practices.
Lastly, the European Maritime Safety Agency should assist the Commission in verifying that Member States comply with the requirements laid down in this Directive.