Brussels, 17/10/2003 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has sent reasoned opinions to six Member States that have not made known the national measures taken for transposing Community legislation on maritime equipment. These countries (Italy, Portugal, Austria, Luxembourg, Greece and Finland) should have taken the necessary measures before 23 March 2003. The directive aims to strengthen maritime security and the prevention of pollution through harmonisation of compulsory maritime equipment on board EU vessels. The reasoned opinion is the last step to be taken before proceedings are initiated at the Court of Justice.