Brussels, 29/02/2012 (Agence Europe) - Greater pressure is being exerted to ensure that the powers of the European Railway Agency (ERA) are extended. Speaking with a single voice, the Community of the European Railways (CER) and the Association of the European Rail Industry (UNIFE) expressed their hope that the fourth railway package would strengthen ERA's role. Up until now, ERA has helped to remove cross-border obstacles to the single railway area and facilitate interoperability on all the national railway systems. The two associations representing the interests of the railway sector would like ERA to become the single authority awarding safety certification and authorisation for all vehicles used on the railways. Nonetheless, when there are disputes regarding certification and authorisation, the CER and UNIFE would also like ERA to have the authority to make decisions, so that the agency ultimately becomes the only railway authority in Europe. (MD/trans/fl)