Brussels, 02/07/2001 (Agence Europe) - At the initiative of Commissioner Frits Bolkestein (Internal Market), the Commission launched on Monday 2 July public consultation on the improvements to be made to the European system for recognition of professional qualifications in all Member States. It will take into account the results of this consultation when it presents a proposal of directive establishing a more uniform, flexible and transparent system in this field. The proposal is expected before the Spring European Council 2002. The aims of this proposal, as announced in the Commission's communication on the new European labour markets (see EUROPE of 1 March, p.10) are to simplify and consolidate the existing legislation, improve conditions of professional recognition and liberalise the provision of services within the EU while guaranteeing a high level of consumer health protection.
The national authorities, professional associations and other parties interested are invited to make their comments known by sending their written observations, before 28 September 2001, to the following address: European Commission, DG Internal Market, Unit D-4, C-100 2/23, Rue de la Loi 200, B-1049 Brussels. E-mail: Markt-D4@cec.eu.int. The discussion papers are available on EUROPE at: http: //europa.eu.int/comm/internal_market/en/qualifications/index.htm