Brussels, 05/09/2013 (Agence Europe) - Member states must assume their responsibility when it comes to managing the maritime area, says Gésine Meissner (ALDE, Germany). Addressing the transport and tourism committee (TRAN) on Thursday 5 September, she presented a draft report on the basis of the Commission's proposal for a directive on maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management, a framework within which member states are to take action.
The rapporteur recognises the interest of having a framework directive in order to uphold the principle of subsidiarity. Speaking to her colleagues at the TRAN committee, she affirmed her wish that member states should reach agreement on competence or responsibility as this cannot be regulated at European level. The EU28 are already expected to hold an exchange of information at least. She noted that there are some points that can be used as a basis but that sometimes the member states are reticent. Meissner underlines the importance of showing flexibility, saying she felt it was necessary to take this legislative step within a flexible framework otherwise member states will not be able to follow suit due to a question of competence. In her draft report, the rapporteur insists on crossborder cooperation - given that maritime basins do not have any barriers - and on an approach based on ecosystems.
The vote in the TRAN committee is due to take place in November with a view to a plenary vote in December. (MD/transl.jl)