Brussels, 29/11/2002 (Agence Europe) - During a meeting on Thursday in Paris before the Energy Council of 5-6 December, Loyola de Palacio, European Commissioner for Transport and Gilles de Robien, French Minister of Transport, re-asserted their goal to prioritise air safety and social commitments in the European legislative package on the single sky (as well as the single sky, maritime safety will also become a priority). Ms de Palacio gave assurances that the character of public service in air traffic control will be recognised. The legislative package will involve each Member State assuming full responsibility for the choice of operator in their own airspace. Ms de Palacio also asserted that the Commission would implement the social commitment and continue consultations with social partners. She also launched a study, under the leadership of social partners on the shortage of air traffic controllers in Europe (this will be available before summer 2003). She also intends to put forward other proposals to improve and harmonise training of air traffic controllers and develop a high level European licence.