52009PC0307

[pic] | COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES |

Brussels, 22.6.2009

COM(2009) 307 final

2007/0097/COD

COMMISSION OPINION pursuant to Article 251(2), third subparagraph, point (c) of the EC Treaty on the European Parliament's amendments to the Council Common Position regarding the proposal for a

REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL on common rules for access to the international market for coach and bus services (recast)

AMENDING THE PROPOSAL OF THE COMMISSION by virtue of Article 250(2) of the EC Treaty

COMMISSION OPINIONpursuant to Article 251(2), third subparagraph, point (c) of the EC Treatyon the European Parliament's amendmentsto the Council Common Position regarding theproposal for a

REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL on common rules for access to the international market for coach and bus services (recast)

1. Introduction

Article 251(2), third subparagraph, point (c) of the EC Treaty requires the Commission to deliver an opinion on the amendments proposed by the European Parliament at second reading. The Commission's opinion on the amendments proposed by Parliament is set out below.

2. Background

Date on which the proposal was sent to the European Parliament and to the Council: (document COM(2007) 264 final – 2007/0097/COD): | 23 May 2007 |

Date of the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee: | 26 September 2007 |

Date of the opinion of the European Parliament, first reading: | 5 June 2008 |

Date of transmission of the amended proposal: | 13 June 2008 |

Date of adoption of the common position: | 9 January 2009 |

Date of the opinion of the European Parliament, second reading | 23 April 2009 |

3. Aim of the proposal

The objective of the proposal adopted by the Commission on 23 May 2007 is to establish common rules for access to the market for coach and bus services. The proposal replaces two Regulations currently applicable. One of the main objectives is to simplify the authorisation procedure for regular international passenger transport services.

4. Opinion of the Commission on the amendments by the European Parliament

After several months of negotiations under the Czech Presidency, the Parliament and the Council agreed on a compromise at second reading, in particular concerning the introduction of a new twelve-day rule. The Commission can accept the compromise amendments adopted by the European Parliament after the second reading to confirm this agreement.

5. Conclusion

By virtue of Article 250(2) of the EC Treaty, the Commission will amend its proposal in accordance with the above.