91997E2067

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2067/97 by Markus Ferber (PPE) to the Commission (16 June 1997)

Subject: Right of establishment and freedom of profession in Greece for architects who are citizens of other EU Member States

Directive 85/384/EEC ((OJ L 223, 21.8.1985, p. 15. )) of 10 June 1985 covers the mutual recognition of certificates concerning architecture and other measures to facilitate the effective exercise of the right of establishment and freedom to provide services in the EU Member States.

I understand that this Directive was transposed in Greek law by Presidential Decree No 107 (Greek Official Gazette of 7 April 1993, No 49, p. 483 ff.). Although the Decree recognizes, under certain conditions, the right of establishment and the right to exercise the profession of architect of citizens of other EU Member States, at the same time it makes permission to do so dependent on prior authorization by the Technical Chamber of Greece (TCG).

According to information from German citizens, the TCG refuses permission, without any explanation of the reasons, for foreign applicants who have all the requisite qualifications. Consequently, even though it has been transposed formally in Greek law, the EU directive is of no practical significance.

What action will the Commission take to ensure that the provisions of the EU Directive are transposed in Greece?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission (23 July 1997)

The Commission is aware of the problem raised by the Honourable Member. It has already officially drawn the attention of the Greek authorities to the problem and the need to resolve it as soon as possible. If the Greek authorities do not take the requisite steps forthwith, the Commission will, where necessary, be certain to investigate the matter by instituting proceedings under Article 169 of the EC Treaty.