08/06/2016 (Agence Europe) - Progress continues on recognition of profession qualifications in inland navigation. On Tuesday 7 June, the Transport Council agreed a general approach on the draft directive on the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation. This draft directive, which was presented by the European Commission in February (see EUROPE 11494), seeks to set up a common system of certificates for the entire crew, from apprentices to boatmasters. Holders of such a certificate will be able to practise their profession on inland waterways across the EU. At present, European legislation only covers boatmasters, with the exception of those not operating on the Rhine, the sole preserve of the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine (CCNR). An informal agreement has recently been reached between the European Parliament and the Council on the technical requirements for inland waterways vessels (see EUROPE 11515 and 11527). (PH)