Discussion mainly centres on professional competence, the majority of Member States wishing to
retain provisions for purely national operators and for those who already have five years' relevant
experience. To limit the potential impact of 'diploma tourism' while at the same time minimizing any
potential regression in the mutual recognition of certificates, a time-limit provision was inserted. The
Commission hopes that implementation of the directive will lead to greater harmonization of the
standards of professional competence throughout the Union, thus rendering the provision
unnecessary. However, if the Commission considers that harmonization remains insufficient, it could
propose an extension of the provision for a further five years. It considers that this is a workable
compromise and will keep the situation under review. The establishment of regular checks on all
three criteria (good repute, financial standing and professional competence) at least once every five
years was the minimum which the Commission would accept. Moreover, the fact that application
of the directive is combined with clear sanctions for enforcement will allow any significant
variations between Member States to be highlighted. As the Member States have accepted the main
thrust of the Commission proposal and the controversial element concerning 'diploma tourism' will
be time-limited and subject to consultation and review, the Commission is in favour of the text of
the common position.
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