The European Commission sent a reasoned opinion to the Netherlands on Wednesday 14 June calling on it to fully transpose the EU directive on safety of offshore oil and gas operations which ought to have been incorporated into national law by 19 July 2015.
Directive 2013/30/EU puts in place a set of rules to help prevent accidents and respond promptly and efficiently should such accidents occur. Under these rules, member states must ensure that companies to which they grant a licence for exploration or production are well financed and have the necessary technical expertise. Companies are fully liable for environmental damages caused to protected species and natural habitats.
The Commission found that gaps remain in the national legislation which transposes the directive. The Netherlands now has two months to comply with its obligations or face being referred to the Court of Justice of the EU. (Original version in French by Emmanuel Hagry)