Brussels, 14/06/2007 (Agence Europe) - On 13 June, the European Commission approved Estonian social aid for European seafarers working on board internationally operated cargo ships. The aid is aimed at increasing the international competitiveness of Estonia's shipping sector.
The Estonian authorities wall grant a refund of social tax, up to a full rebate, for European seafarers working on board cargo vessels used in international trade, which are registered under the Estonian shipping register and fly the Estonian flag. The aid will benefit private shipping companies with first or secondary residence in Estonia. The total amount of 540 000 000 EEK shall be spent between 1 May 2007 and 31 December 2012 by Enterprise Estonia, the body responsible for disbursing the aid. Grants are subject to yearly and overall budgetary limits. Any aid granted under this scheme cumulated with other measures must not exceed the total amount of taxes and social contributions from shipping activities and seafarers. (ol)