Brussels, 11/06/2013 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 10 June, European transport ministers agreed a general approach on rules applicable to marine equipment on board European ships (1998 directive). This is to ensure that this equipment meets European and international standards, particularly those of the International Maritime Organisation, and to guarantee this fact through a mark on the equipment, similar to that for electric household goods. Irish Transport Minister Leo Varadkar, speaking on behalf of the rotating EU Presidency, explained that what was needed was uniform application of the rules, which was important for industry, safety and environment. Ministers chose to extend the transition period for the legislation to 3 years and retained the right of scrutiny with regard to the adoption of technical specifications by the European Commission. The European commissioner for transport expressed a number of reservations with regard to this approach, as well as with regard to the decision by member states not to use active e-solutions, which he described as a “missed opportunity”. (MD/transl.fl)