WRITTEN QUESTION E-1019/97 by José Apolinário (PSE) to the Commission (19 March 1997)

Subject: Introduction of a European pass for people over 60 years of age

Can the Commission provide information regarding the Europass project (the Member States involved and the planned funding), the aim of which is to introduce a European pass for people over 60 years of age?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission (28 April 1997)

There is no common European proof of pensioner status and there is no plan to propose harmonisation of Member States' policies in this area. There is however a Commission Recommendation 89/350/EEC of 10 May 1989 for the introduction of a common 'over sixties card' which would make existing rights of older people visible ((OJ L 144, 27.5.1989. )), especially when travelling outside their own Member State. No Member State has so far chosen to implement this recommendation although Portugal has recently established a working group to examine the issue.

The Commission is currently engaged, with the non-governmental organisations (NGO) sector, in identifying concrete measures by which progress might be made towards better access by older people to the concessions to which they are entitled. The aim is to develop models which Member States could adapt to meet their own particular circumstances. This could eventually provide a common basis for reciprocal benefits and mutual recognition within the Community. The results of a feasibility study should be available in mid 1997. The Commission will review the situation based on the report from this study.