title: Council Recommendation of 10 July 2012 on the National Reform Programme 2012 of Lithuania and delivering a Council opinion on the Convergence Programme of Lithuania, 2012-15

text:
               24.7.2012

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 219/54

         COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION
   of 10 July 2012
   on the National Reform Programme 2012 of Lithuania and delivering a Council opinion on the Convergence Programme of Lithuania, 2012-15
   2012/C 219/16
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 121(2) and 148(4) thereof,
   Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
   Having regard to the recommendation of the European Commission,
   Having regard to the conclusions of the European Council,
   Having regard to the opinion of the Employment Committee,
   After consulting the Economic and Financial Committee,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 26 March 2010, the European Council agreed to the Commission’s proposal to launch a new strategy for jobs and growth, Europe 2020, based on enhanced coordination of economic policies, which focuses on the key areas where action is needed to boost Europe’s potential for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

               (2)

               On 13 July 2010, the Council adopted a recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Union (2010 to 2014) and, on 21 October 2010, adopted a decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (2), which together form the ‘integrated guidelines’. Member States were invited to take the integrated guidelines into account in their national economic and employment policies.

               (3)

               On 12 July 2011, the Council adopted a recommendation (3) on Lithuania’s National Reform Programme for 2011 and delivered its opinion on Lithuania’s updated Convergence Programme for 2011-14.

               (4)

               On 23 November 2011, the Commission adopted the second Annual Growth Survey, marking the start of the second European Semester of ex ante and integrated policy coordination, which is anchored in the Europe 2020 strategy. On 14 February 2012, the Commission, on the basis of Regulation (EU) No 1176/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 November 2011 on the prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances (4), adopted the Alert Mechanism Report, in which it did not identify Lithuania as one of the Member States for which an in-depth review would be carried out.

               (5)

               On 1 December 2011, the Council adopted conclusions calling on the Social Protection Committee, in cooperation with the Employment and other Committees, to present its views on actions recommended within the Europe 2020 policy cycle. These views form part of the opinion of the Employment Committee.

               (6)

               The European Parliament has been duly involved in the European Semester, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1466/97, and, on 15 February 2012, adopted a resolution on employment and social aspects in the Annual Growth Survey 2012 and a resolution on the contribution to the Annual Growth Survey 2012.

               (7)

               On 2 March 2012, the European Council endorsed the priorities for ensuring financial stability, fiscal consolidation and action to foster growth. It underscored the need to pursue differentiated, growth-friendly fiscal consolidation, to restore normal lending conditions to the economy, to promote growth and competitiveness, to tackle unemployment and the social consequences of the crisis, and to modernise public administration. It invited Member States to implement the Council’s country-specific recommendations for 2011 and to translate those priorities into concrete measures to be included in their Stability or Convergence Programmes and in their National Reform Programmes.

               (8)

               On 2 March 2012, the European Council also invited the Member States participating in the Euro Plus Pact to present their commitments in time to be included in their Stability or Convergence Programmes and in their National Reform Programmes.

               (9)

               On 27 April 2012, Lithuania submitted its Convergence Programme covering the period 2012-15 and, on 30 April 2012, its 2012 National Reform Programme. In order to take account of their interlinkages, the two Programmes have been assessed at the same time.

               (10)

               Based on the assessment of the Convergence Programme pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1466/97, the Council is of the opinion that the macroeconomic scenario underpinning the budgetary projections in that Programme is plausible. It is broadly in line with the Commission services’ 2012 spring forecast for 2012 and 2013. The objective of the budgetary strategy outlined in the Convergence Programme is to correct the excessive deficit by 2012 as recommended by the Council and progressing towards the medium-term budgetary objective (MTO) thereafter. The Convergence Programme confirms the previous MTO, namely a structural general government surplus of 0,5 % of GDP, which adequately reflects the requirements of the Stability and Growth Pact, and outlines a consolidation of at least 1 percentage point per year, planning a balanced budget by 2015. While the budgetary plans are in line with a timely correction of the excessive deficit, the average annual fiscal effort in 2010-12, based on the (recalculated) structural budget balance (5), is expected to be lower than the 2,25 % of GDP required by the Council in its recommendation of 16 February 2010. The planned annual progress towards the MTO in the years following the correction of the excessive deficit is slightly higher than 0,5 % of GDP in structural terms, that is, the benchmark of the Stability and Growth Pact.
               The planned rate of growth of government expenditure, taking into account discretionary revenue measures, complies with the expenditure benchmark of the Stability and Growth Pact in 2013 and 2014, but not in 2015. General government debt is projected to remain below 60 % of GDP over the Convergence Programme period, increasing to nearly 41 % of GDP in 2013, according to the Commission services’ 2012 spring forecast, while the Convergence Programme targets the debt to decrease to around 35 % by 2015. The reform of budget planning and execution is progressing but the Government has still to approve the proposed laws. These laws would improve accountability within the fiscal framework, by establishing an independent body, and tighten rules on treasury reserves.

               (11)

               Based on a comprehensive tax compliance strategy, measures were implemented in 2011, which reinforced tax compliance and yielded additional revenue. However, continuing implementation will be required to advance significantly against tax evasion.

               (12)

               Demographic developments cast serious doubts on the sustainability of the pension system. Although Lithuania adopted a gradual increase in the pension age to 65 years by 2026, this alone will not ensure a sustainable and adequate retirement income in the future and needs to be complemented by additional measures. Those measures could include linking the statutory retirement age and future benefits to demographic factors; establishing clear rules for indexation; introducing a closer link between contributions and benefits; and eliminating incentives to take early retirement. Lithuania could in addition make better use of supplementary voluntary pension provision. Supplementary retirement savings via individual pre-funded private pension schemes and/or the establishment of occupational pension schemes could ease the burden of the social security system and at the same time improve the adequacy of future pension incomes. Disincentives to continuing to work longer have been removed.

               (13)

               The Law on Temporary Employment Agencies, designed to facilitate short-term employment, entered into force on 1 December 2011. However, its impact may not be significant, since temporary work agencies were already operating in Lithuania before then. A comprehensive review of labour law could identify unnecessary restrictions and administrative hurdles that prevent flexible contractual agreements, dismissal provisions and flexible working time arrangements. Additional measures to enhance participation in the labour market, especially for young people, unskilled persons and older workers, and to improve labour market flexibility are necessary.

               (14)

               The challenge of youth unemployment (above 30 %) and low-skilled unemployment became especially evident during the crisis. The Government is implementing a number of measures to promote youth employment, such as first job subsidies and reduced social security contributions. Nevertheless, activation rates remain too low and the financial allocations for active labour market policies could be used more effectively by targeting public works to the most vulnerable. To ensure a better transfer from education to the labour market, apprenticeships and internships could be made more attractive and a qualification demand forecasting system put in place. Measures should be in line with the findings of the Lithuania — Commission joint action team on youth unemployment.

               (15)

               Around one third of the Lithuanian population is facing the risk of poverty and long-term exclusion. This is the fourth highest figure in the Union. In 2011, Lithuania amended the Law on Cash Social Assistance to reform the social support system as of January 2012. It has launched a pilot model of social support distribution, changed the method for calculating the amount, introduced certain work incentives and increased coverage. The social assistance reform is a step towards reducing disincentives to work. It is necessary to set in place a monitoring system to assess its efficiency and its impact on poverty alleviation. The reform should also link with activation measures that enhance participation, in particular for long-term social beneficiaries.

               (16)

               The Government has been undertaking an ambitious reform of state-owned enterprises since 2010, aiming to restructure corporate governance, increase transparency and separate ownership and regulatory functions, and increase competition and efficiency. The reform is relevant, involving legislative as well as organisational changes. Major progress has been made in transparency and accountability as reports are now published on a quarterly and annual basis. Clear enterprise objectives have been established. However, the Government has postponed some parts of the reform, in particular the separation of commercial and non-commercial activities of state-owned enterprises, and intends to implement them in 2012.

               (17)

               Lithuania has made some progress in improving the energy efficiency of buildings. A Multi-Apartment Building Modernisation Programme was adopted by the Government in December 2011, but it is weakened by counteracting subsidies available in other policy areas that reduce incentives for inhabitants of residential buildings to improve energy efficiency. Further substantial and accelerated efforts are needed to improve energy efficiency of buildings.

               (18)

               There is scope for shifting taxation towards energy use as revenue from environmental taxes is the third lowest in the Union, while transport taxes are the lowest in the Union. The implicit tax rate on energy consumption was the seventh lowest in the Union in 2010 whereas energy taxes in GDP terms are only slightly below the EU average.

               (19)

               The country’s energy system infrastructure lacks competition and interconnections and this is a factor that hinders growth. Insufficient interconnections hinder the emergence of competition in energy markets. Concentration remains high (above 90 %) in both the gas and electricity markets.

               (20)

               Lithuania has made a number of commitments under the Euro Plus Pact. The commitments, and the implementation of the commitments presented in 2011, relate to fostering competitiveness and employment, improving public finance sustainability and reinforcing financial stability. The Commission has assessed the implementation of the Euro Plus Pact commitments. The results of this assessment have been taken into account in the recommendations below.

               (21)

               In the context of the European Semester, the Commission has carried out a comprehensive analysis of Lithuania’s economic policy. It has assessed the Convergence Programme and the National Reform Programme. It has taken into account not only their relevance for sustainable fiscal and socioeconomic policy in Lithuania but also their compliance with EU rules and guidance, given the need to reinforce the overall economic governance of the Union by providing EU-level input into future national decisions. Its recommendations under the European Semester are reflected in recommendations (1) to (6) below.

               (22)

               In the light of this assessment, the Council has examined the Convergence Programme, and its opinion (6) is reflected in particular in recommendation (1) below,

         HEREBY RECOMMENDS that Lithuania take action within the period 2012-13 to:

               1.

               Ensure planned progress towards the timely correction of the excessive deficit. To this end, fully implement the budget for the year 2012 and achieve the structural adjustment effort specified in the Council recommendation under the excessive deficit procedure. Thereafter, specify the measures necessary to ensure implementation of the budgetary strategy for the year 2013 and beyond as envisaged, ensuring an adequate structural adjustment effort to make sufficient progress towards the MTO, including meeting the expenditure benchmark, while minimising cuts in growth-enhancing expenditure. In that respect, review and consider increasing those taxes that are least detrimental to growth, such as housing and environmental taxation, including introducing car taxation, while reinforcing tax compliance. Strengthen the fiscal framework, in particular by introducing enforceable and binding expenditure ceilings in the medium-term budgetary framework.

               2.

               Adopt legislation on a comprehensive pension system reform. Align the statutory retirement age with life expectancy, establish clear rules for the indexation of pensions, and improve complementary savings schemes. Underpin pension reform with active ageing measures.

               3.

               Tackle high unemployment, in particular among youth, low-skilled and long-term unemployed, by focusing resources on active labour market policies while improving their efficiency. Enhance the effectiveness of apprenticeship schemes. Amend the labour legislation with regard to flexible contract agreements, dismissal provisions and flexible working time arrangements.

               4.

               Increase work incentives and strengthen the links between the social assistance reform and activation measures, in particular for the most vulnerable, to reduce poverty and social exclusion.

               5.

               Implement all aspects of the reform package of state-owned enterprises and in particular ensure a separation of ownership and regulatory functions and a separation of commercial and non-commercial activities. Install appropriate monitoring tools to assess the effectiveness of the reforms and ensure compliance of all state-owned enterprises with the requirements of the reform.

               6.

               Step up measures to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, including through removing disincentives and a rapid implementation of the holding fund. Promote competition in energy networks by improving interconnectivity with the Member States for both electricity and gas.

      Done at Brussels, 10 July 2012.

            For the Council

            The President

         V. SHIARLY

      (1)  OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1.

      (2)  Maintained for 2012 by Council Decision 2012/238/EU of 26 April 2012 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (OJ L 119, 4.5.2012, p. 47).

      (3)  OJ C 210, 16.7.2011, p. 1.

      (4)  OJ L 306, 23.11.2011, p. 25.

      (5)  Cyclically-adjusted balance net of one-off and temporary measures, recalculated by the Commission services on the basis of the information provided in the Programme, using the commonly agreed methodology.

      (6)  Under Article 9(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1466/97.


Avis juridique important

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31974H0527

74/527/EEC: Commission Recommendation of 14 October 1974 to the Government of Italy concerning a draft law to implement Council Regulations (EEC) No 516/72 and (EEC) No 517/72 and Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1172/72

Official Journal L 298 , 06/11/1974 P. 0015 - 0016

COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION  of 14 October 1974  to the Government of Italy concerning a draft law to implement Council Regulations (EEC) No 516/72 and (EEC) No 517/72 and Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1172/72  (74/527/EEC)    1. By letter dated 23 April 1974, the Office of the Italian Permanent Representative to the European Communities communicated to the Commission a draft law to implement:      - Council Regulation (EEC) No 516/72 (1) of 28 February 1972,           - Council Regulation (EEC) No 517/72 (2) of 28 February 1972,           - Commission Regulation (EEC) No 1172/72 (3) of 26 May 1972.             This communication constitutes consultation of the Commission as required under Article 24 of Regulation (EEC) No 516/72 and Article 22 of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72.  It also informs the Commission, as required under Article 6 of Regulation (EEC) No 1172/72, of the implementing provisions which the Italian Government proposes to adopt.       2. Before making known its views on the draft law which has been submitted to it by way of consultation, the Commission must express its regret that the Italian Government has not observed the time limit for the implementation of Regulations (EEC) No 516/72 and (EEC) No 517/72.  As regards the content of the draft law, the Commission makes the following recommendation.       3. Article 7 of the draft law lays down the conditions governing the transfer of a regular service authorization or a special regular service authorization but makes no provision for the possible transfer of such services, which possibility is also provided for in Article 22 of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72.  Consequently, the Commission recommends that the Government of Italy repair this omission by specifying its intention with regard to the possibility of transferring the operation of a regular service or a special regular service.       4. The second paragraph of Article 11 of the draft law provides for a pecuniary penalty to be imposed on holders of an authorization to operate a regular service, a special regular service or a shuttle service who, contrary to Article 4 (2) of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72, operate such service under conditions other than those set out in the authorization. The Commission notes that, if reference is made solely to Article 4 (2) of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72, the proposed measure can relate only to regular services and special regular services. Consequently, it recommends that the Italian Government amend the provisions of the second paragraph of Article 11 of the draft law by referring to Article 4 of Regulation (EEC) No 516/72 as regards shuttle services and to Article 4 of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72 as regards regular services and special regular services.       5. Article 12 of the draft law relates the grounds for withdrawal of an authorization to operate a regular service, a special regular service or a shuttle service to the provisions of Article 18 (1) of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72 and Article 19 (1) of Regulation (EEC) No 516/72. The Commission notes that, firstly, point (a) of Article 12 repeats provisions contained in the said Regulations and which, in pursuance of the Regulations themselves have been directly applicable in the Member States since 1 January 1973 and cannot be duplicated in national instruments and that, secondly, the provisions in point (b) of Article 12 constitute a measure implementing not Articles 18 and 19 of the abovementioned Community Regulations, but Articles 22 and 24, respectively, of the said Regulations.  Therefore, the Commission hereby recommends that the Italian Government      - deletes from Article 12 of the draft law the provisions contained in (a), which repeat a Community provision in force,           - specifies that withdrawal of the authorization as provided for in (b) is effected in implementation of Article 22 of Regulation (EEC) No 517/72 and Article 24 of Regulation (EEC) No 516/72.  (1)OJ No L 67, 20.3.1972, p. 13. (2)OJ No L 67, 20.3.1972, p. 19. (3)OJ No L 134, 12.6.1972, p. 1.                   6. The Commission notes that the other provisions of the Italian draft law fulfil the obligations of Member States under the Community Regulations concerned.  Done at Brussels, 14 October 1974.  For the Commission  The President  François-Xavier ORTOLI


Avis juridique important

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32002H0217

Council Recommendation of 5 March 2002 concerning the discharge to be given to the Commission in respect of the implementation of the operations of the European Development Fund (1989) (seventh EDF) for the financial year 2000

Official Journal L 072 , 14/03/2002 P. 0024 - 0024

Council Recommendationof 5 March 2002concerning the discharge to be given to the Commission in respect of the implementation of the operations of the European Development Fund (1989) (seventh EDF) for the financial year 2000(2002/217/EC)THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,Having regard to the Fourth ACP-EC Convention, signed at Lomé on 15 December 1989, as amended by the Agreement signed at Mauritius on 4 November 1995,Having regard to Council Decision 91/482/EEC of 25 July 1991 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the European Economic Community(1),Having regard to the Internal Agreement on the financing and administration of Community aid(2), signed in Brussels on 16 July 1990, and in particular Article 33(3) thereof,Having regard to the Financial Regulation of 29 July 1991 applicable to the seventh European Development Fund(3), and in particular Articles 69 to 77 thereof,Having examined the revenue and expenditure account and the balance sheet relating to the operations of the European Development Fund (1989) (seventh EDF) as at 31 December 2000 and the Court of Auditors' report relating to the financial year 2000 together with the Commission's replies(4),Whereas:(1) Pursuant to Article 33(3) of the Internal Agreement, the discharge for the management of the European Development Fund (1989) (seventh EDF) must be given to the Commission by the European Parliament on a recommendation from the Council.(2) The overall implementation by the Commission of the operations of the European Development Fund (1989) (seventh EDF) during the financial year 2000 has been satisfactory,HEREBY RECOMMENDS that the European Parliament give the Commission a discharge in respect of the implementation of the operations of the European Development Fund (1989) (seventh EDF) for the financial year 2000.Done at Brussels, 5 March 2002.For the CouncilThe PresidentR. de Rato y Figaredo(1) OJ L 263, 19.9.1991, p. 1.(2) OJ L 229, 17.8.1991, p. 288.(3) OJ L 266, 21.9.1991, p. 1.(4) OJ C 359, 15.12.2001, p. 421.


title: Commission Recommendation of 23 June 2009 on reference metadata for the European Statistical System (Text with EEA relevance)

text:
               30.6.2009

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 168/50

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION

   of 23 June 2009
   on reference metadata for the European Statistical System
   (Text with EEA relevance)
   (2009/498/EC)
   THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,
   Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 211 thereof,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               The European Statistics Code of Practice (1), intended for the national and Community statistical authorities enumerates 15 principles linked to the institutional environment, statistical processes and statistical output.

               (2)

               Principle 15 of the European Statistics Code of Practice deals with accessibility and clarity of European Statistics, also emphasising that the accompanying metadata should be documented according to a standardised metadata system.

               (3)

               Reference metadata are an integral part of the metadata system of each statistical authority.

               (4)

               With the adoption of the European Statistics Code of Practice the national and Community statistical authorities have committed themselves towards high quality statistics which also requires more transparent and harmonised reporting on data quality.

               (5)

               In the framework of the SDMX initiative on common technical and statistical standards for the exchange and sharing of data and metadata launched by the Bank of International Settlements, the European Central Bank, the Community statistical authority (Eurostat), the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United Nations and the World Bank the SDMX Content-Oriented Guidelines have been established which support the creation and implementation of harmonised reference metadata in the European Statistical System.

               (6)

               Considerable efficiency gains can be reached when the reference metadata are produced on the basis of a harmonised list of statistical concepts within the European Statistical System, while at the same time allowing national and Community statistical authorities to add more statistical concepts in particular statistical areas if needed.

               (7)

               Regulation (EC) No 223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2009 on European Statistics (2) provides a reference framework for this Recommendation,

         HEREBY RECOMMENDS TO THE MEMBER STATES:

               1.

               National statistical authorities are invited to apply the statistical concepts and sub-concepts listed in the Annex when reference metadata are compiled in the different statistical areas and when reference metadata are exchanged within the European Statistical System or beyond.

               2.

               Additional statistical concepts should be added by national statistical authorities to the above list of concepts and sub-concepts if it is necessary for particular statistical areas.

               3.

               National statistical authorities are invited to regularly inform the Commission (Eurostat) of their application of the concepts and sub-concepts listed in the Annex.

      Done at Brussels, 23 June 2009.

            For the Commission

         Joaquín ALMUNIA

            Member of the Commission

      (1)  Commission Recommendation of 25 May 2005 on the independence, integrity and accountability of the national and Community statistical authorities, COM(2005) 217 final.

      (2)  OJ L 87, 31.3.2009, p. 164.

      ANNEX

         List of statistical concepts and sub-concepts (including the definitions of the concepts and sub-concepts)

                  Number

                  Concepts

                  Sub-concepts

                  Descriptions

                  1.

                  Contact

                  Individual or organisational contact points for the data or metadata, including information on how to reach the contact points.

                  1.1.

                  Contact organisation

                  The name of the organisation of the contact points for the data or metadata.

                  1.2.

                  Contact organisation unit

                  An addressable subdivision of an organisation.

                  1.3.

                  Contact name

                  The name of the contact points for the data or metadata.

                  1.4.

                  Contact person function

                  The area of technical responsibility of the contact, such as ‘methodology’, ‘database management’ or ‘dissemination’.

                  1.5.

                  Contact mail address

                  The postal address of the contact points for the data or metadata.

                  1.6.

                  Contact e-mail address

                  E-mail address of the contact points for the data or metadata.

                  1.7.

                  Contact phone number

                  The telephone number of the contact points for the data or metadata.

                  1.8.

                  Contact fax number

                  Fax number of the contact points for the data or metadata.

                  2.

                  Metadata update

                  The date on which the metadata element was inserted or modified in the database.

                  2.1.

                  Metadata last certified

                  Date of the latest certification provided by the domain manager to confirm that the metadata posted are still up to date, even if the content has not been amended.

                  2.2.

                  Metadata last posted

                  Date of the latest dissemination of the metadata.

                  2.3.

                  Metadata last update

                  Date of last update of the content of the metadata.

                  3.

                  Statistical presentation

                  3.1.

                  Data description

                  Main characteristics of the data set described in an easily understandable manner, referring to the data and indicators disseminated.

                  3.2.

                  Classification system

                  Arrangement or division of objects into groups based on characteristics which the objects have in common.

                  3.3.

                  Sector coverage

                  Main economic or other sectors covered by the statistics.

                  3.4.

                  Statistical concepts and definitions

                  Statistical characteristics of statistical observations.

                  3.5.

                  Statistical unit

                  Entity for which information is sought and for which statistics are ultimately compiled.

                  3.6.

                  Statistical population

                  The total membership or population or ‘universe’ of a defined class of people, objects or events.

                  3.7.

                  Reference area

                  The country or geographic area to which the measured statistical phenomenon relates.

                  3.8.

                  Time coverage

                  The length of time for which data are available.

                  3.9.

                  Base period

                  The period of time used as the base of an index number, or to which a constant series refers.

                  4.

                  Unit of measure

                  The unit in which the data values are measured.

                  5.

                  Reference period

                  The period of time or point in time to which the measured observation is intended to refer.

                  6.

                  Institutional Mandate

                  Set of rules or other formal set of instructions assigning responsibility as well as the authority to an organisation for the collection, processing, and dissemination of statistics.

                  6.1.

                  Legal acts and other agreements

                  Legal acts or other formal or informal agreements that assign responsibility as well as the authority to an agency for the collection, processing, and dissemination of statistics.

                  6.2.

                  Data sharing

                  Arrangements or procedures for data sharing and coordination between data producing agencies.

                  7.

                  Confidentiality

                  A property of data indicating the extent to which their unauthorised disclosure could be prejudicial or harmful to the interest of the source or other relevant parties.

                  7.1.

                  Confidentiality — policy

                  Legislative measures or other formal procedures which prevent unauthorised disclosure of data that identify a person or economic entity either directly or indirectly.

                  7.2.

                  Confidentiality — data treatment

                  Rules applied for treating the data set to ensure statistical confidentiality and prevent unauthorised disclosure.

                  8.

                  Release policy

                  Rules for disseminating statistical data to interested parties.

                  8.1.

                  Release calendar

                  The schedule of statistical release dates.

                  8.2.

                  Release calendar access

                  Access to the release calendar information.

                  8.3.

                  User access

                  The policy for release of the data to users, the scope of dissemination (e.g. to the public, to selected users), how users are informed that the data are being released, and whether the policy determines the dissemination of statistical data to all users.

                  9.

                  Frequency of dissemination

                  The time interval at which the statistics are disseminated over a given time period.

                  10.

                  Dissemination format

                  Media by which statistical data and metadata are disseminated.

                  10.1.

                  News release

                  Regular or ad-hoc press releases linked to the data.

                  10.2.

                  Publications

                  Regular or ad-hoc publications in which the data are made available to the public.

                  10.3.

                  Online database

                  Information about online databases in which the disseminated data can be accessed.

                  10.4.

                  Micro-data access

                  Information on whether micro-data are also disseminated.

                  10.5.

                  Other

                  References to the most important other data dissemination done.

                  11.

                  Accessibility of documentation

                  11.1.

                  Documentation on methodology

                  Descriptive text and references to methodological documents available.

                  11.2.

                  Quality documentation

                  Documentation on procedures applied for quality management and quality assessment.

                  12.

                  Quality Management

                  Systems and frameworks in place within an organisation to manage the quality of statistical products and processes.

                  12.1.

                  Quality assurance

                  All systematic activities implemented that can be demonstrated to provide confidence that the processes will fulfil the requirements for the statistical output.

                  12.2.

                  Quality assessment

                  Overall assessment of data quality, based on standard quality criteria.

                  13.

                  Relevance

                  The degree to which statistical information meet current and potential needs of the users.

                  13.1.

                  User needs

                  Description of users and their respective needs with respect to the statistical data.

                  13.2.

                  User satisfaction

                  Measures to determine user satisfaction.

                  13.3.

                  Completeness

                  The extent to which all statistics that are needed are available.

                  14.

                  Accuracy and reliability

                  Accuracy: closeness of computations or estimates to the exact or true values that the statistics were intended to measure.
                  Reliability: closeness of the initial estimated value to the subsequent estimated value.

                  14.1.

                  Overall accuracy

                  Assessment of accuracy, linked to a certain data set or domain, which is summarising the various components.

                  14.2.

                  Sampling error

                  That part of the difference between a population value and an estimate thereof, derived from a random sample, which is due to the fact that only a subset of the population is enumerated.

                  14.3.

                  Non-sampling error

                  Error in survey estimates which cannot be attributed to sampling fluctuations.

                  15.

                  Timeliness and punctuality

                  15.1.

                  Timeliness

                  Length of time between data availability and the event or phenomenon they describe.

                  15.2.

                  Punctuality

                  Time lag between the actual delivery of the data and the target date when it should have been delivered.

                  16.

                  Comparability

                  Measurement of the impact of differences in applied statistical concepts, measurement tools and procedures where statistics are compared between geographical areas or over time.

                  16.1.

                  Comparability — geographical

                  The extent to which statistics are comparable between geographical areas.

                  16.2.

                  Comparability over time

                  The extent to which statistics are comparable or reconcilable over time.

                  17.

                  Coherence

                  Adequacy of statistics to be reliably combined in different ways and for various uses.

                  17.1.

                  Coherence — cross domain

                  The extent to which statistics are reconcilable with those obtained through other data sources or statistical domains.

                  17.2.

                  Coherence — internal

                  The extent to which statistics are consistent within a given data set.

                  18.

                  Cost and burden

                  Cost associated with the collection and production of a statistical product and burden on respondents.

                  19.

                  Data revision

                  Any change in a value of a statistic released to the public.

                  19.1.

                  Data revision — policy

                  Policy aimed at ensuring the transparency of disseminated data, whereby preliminary data are compiled that are later revised.

                  19.2.

                  Data revision — practice

                  Information on the data revision practice.

                  20.

                  Statistical processing

                  20.1.

                  Source data

                  Characteristics and components of the raw statistical data used for compiling statistical aggregates.

                  20.2.

                  Frequency of data collection

                  Frequency with which the source data are collected.

                  20.3.

                  Data collection

                  Systematic process of gathering data for official statistics.

                  20.4.

                  Data validation

                  Process of monitoring the results of data compilation and ensuring the quality of the statistical results.

                  20.5.

                  Data compilation

                  Operations performed on data to derive new information according to a given set of rules.

                  20.6.

                  Adjustment

                  The set of procedures employed to modify statistical data to enable it to conform to national or international standards or to address data quality differences when compiling specific data sets.

                  21.

                  Comment

                  Supplementary descriptive text which can be attached to data or metadata.


title: Council Recommendation of 10 July 2012 on the National Reform Programme 2012 of Malta and delivering a Council opinion on the Stability Programme of Malta, 2012-15

text:
               24.7.2012

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 219/61

         COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION
   of 10 July 2012
   on the National Reform Programme 2012 of Malta and delivering a Council opinion on the Stability Programme of Malta, 2012-15
   2012/C 219/18
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 121(2) and 148(4) thereof,
   Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies (1), and in particular Article 5(2) thereof,
   Having regard to the recommendation of the European Commission,
   Having regard to the conclusions of the European Council,
   Having regard to the opinion of the Employment Committee,
   After consulting the Economic and Financial Committee,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 26 March 2010, the European Council agreed to the Commission’s proposal to launch a new strategy for jobs and growth, Europe 2020, based on enhanced coordination of economic policies, which focuses on the key areas where action is needed to boost Europe’s potential for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

               (2)

               On 13 July 2010, the Council adopted a recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Union (2010 to 2014) and, on 21 October 2010, adopted a decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (2), which together form the ‘integrated guidelines’. Member States were invited to take the integrated guidelines into account in their national economic and employment policies.

               (3)

               On 12 July 2011, the Council adopted a recommendation (3) on Malta’s National Reform Programme for 2011 and delivered its opinion on Malta’s updated Stability Programme for 2011-14.

               (4)

               On 23 November 2011, the Commission adopted the second Annual Growth Survey, marking the start of the second European Semester of ex ante and integrated policy coordination, which is anchored in the Europe 2020 strategy. On 14 February 2012, the Commission, on the basis of Regulation (EU) No 1176/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 November 2011 on the prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances (4), adopted the Alert Mechanism Report, in which it did not identify Malta as one of the Member States for which an in-depth review would be carried out.

               (5)

               On 1 December 2011, the Council adopted conclusions calling on the Social Protection Committee, in cooperation with the Employment and other Committees, to present its views on actions recommended within the Europe 2020 policy cycle. These views form part of the opinion of the Employment Committee.

               (6)

               The European Parliament has been duly involved in the European Semester, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1466/97, and, on 15 February 2012, adopted a resolution on employment and social aspects in the Annual Growth Survey 2012 and a resolution on the contribution to the Annual Growth Survey 2012.

               (7)

               On 2 March 2012, the European Council endorsed the priorities for ensuring financial stability, fiscal consolidation and action to foster growth. It underscored the need to pursue differentiated, growth-friendly fiscal consolidation, to restore normal lending conditions to the economy, to promote growth and competitiveness, to tackle unemployment and the social consequences of the crisis, and to modernise public administration.

               (8)

               On 2 March 2012, the European Council also invited the Member States participating in the Euro Plus Pact to present their commitments in time to be included in their Stability or Convergence Programmes and their National Reform Programmes.

               (9)

               On 30 April 2012, Malta submitted its Stability Programme covering the period 2012-15 and, on 23 April 2012, its 2012 National Reform Programme. In order to take account of their interlinkages, the two Programmes have been assessed at the same time.

               (10)

               Based on the assessment of the Stability Programme pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1466/97, the Council is of the opinion that the macroeconomic scenario underpinning the budgetary projections is optimistic, especially in the outer years of the programme period when compared with potential growth as estimated by the Commission. The objective of the budgetary strategy outlined in the Stability Programme is to gradually reduce the deficit, to 0,3 % of GDP in 2015, after the planned correction of the excessive deficit in 2011. The Stability Programme confirms the previous medium-term budgetary objective (MTO) of a balanced position in structural terms, which is to be achieved beyond the programme period. The MTO adequately reflects the requirements of the Stability and Growth Pact. There are risks that the deficit outcomes could be worse than targeted, stemming from: (i) lower revenue given the slightly optimistic macroeconomic scenario; (ii) possible overruns in current primary expenditure; and (iii) the ongoing restructuring of the national airline (Air Malta) and financial situation of the energy provider (Enemalta). Based on the (recalculated) structural budget balance (5), annual progress towards the MTO is planned to be in line with the 0,5 % of GDP benchmark in the Stability and Growth Pact.
               Using the Commission’s identification of the one-offs included in the budgetary targets, average progress towards the MTO is slightly higher (¾ % of GDP) but spread very unevenly, with no progress in 2012 followed by an effort of 1¼ % in 2013. According to the information provided in the Stability Programme, the growth rate of government expenditure, taking into account discretionary revenue measures, would be in line with the expenditure benchmark of the Stability and Growth Pact throughout the programme period. The risks to the budgetary targets imply, however, that the average adjustment towards the MTO could be slower than appropriate. After peaking at 72 % of GDP in 2011, the general government gross debt ratio is planned in the Stability Programme to start decreasing and to reach 65,3 % of GDP in 2015 (still above the 60 % of GDP Treaty reference value).
               According to the plans in the Stability Programme, Malta is making sufficient progress towards meeting the debt reduction benchmark of the Stability and Growth Pact at the end of the transition period (2015) but this assessment is subject to risks as the debt ratio could turn out higher than planned given the possibility of higher deficits and stock-flow adjustments. Malta’s medium-term budgetary framework remains non-binding, implying a relatively short fiscal planning horizon. The Stability Programme announces that the Government is considering reforms to the annual budgetary procedure, including timelines, and introducing a fiscal rule embedded in the Constitution, including monitoring and corrective mechanisms, in line with recent changes to the euro area governance framework.

               (11)

               As regards the long-term sustainability of public finances, Malta is projected to have a long-term increase in age-related expenditure exceeding considerably the EU average. A very low activity rate of older workers, including of older women; a relatively low exit age; and recourse to early retirement schemes add to the scope of the challenge. An independent Pensions Working Group submitted proposals for further pension reform in December 2010, including a link between the retirement rate and life expectancy, as well as the introduction of additional pillars to the pension system. This has been subject to consultation with stakeholders but the Government has yet to announce its position. Moreover, the National Reform Programme does not propose a comprehensive active-ageing strategy. While noting the measures introduced by Malta to combat undeclared work, its incidence also risks exerting undue pressure on the sustainability of public finances.

               (12)

               The restructuring of Malta’s economy has created a mismatch between demand and supply of skills, intensified by low tertiary education attainment and high early school leaving rates. Efforts to improve links between the education system and labour market needs have to be maintained to ensure lasting results. Malta is expected to present a strategy to tackle early school leaving by end of 2012. There is moreover no comprehensive system for collecting and analysing information on the phenomenon.

               (13)

               Malta still exhibits a low participation rate in its labour market for women and older workers. Malta is taking steps to bring women back into the labour force recognising the difficulties related to older women. However, the gender employment gap is particularly negative for women, primarily due to the lack of sufficient provision of affordable childcare and accessible after-school facilities, coupled with a low uptake of family-friendly measures such as flexitime and teleworking.

               (14)

               Malta remains one of the few Member States with a generalised wage indexation system. While the mechanism has features that potentially mitigate its impact, it entails a risk of wage-price spirals, particularly because imported prices are not excluded from the index, and may hamper competitiveness, especially in labour-intensive sectors. The authorities have undertaken a review process, but the results are not yet available, and debate on concrete reform proposals has yet to begin.

               (15)

               Energy supply in Malta remains almost entirely dependent on imported oil, while the contribution of renewable energy sources continues to be marginal. High electricity tariffs may hamper the competitiveness of its small and medium-sized enterprises. Addressing shortcomings in energy efficiency could bring the double benefit of improving competitiveness and achieving energy and climate targets. A number of initiatives in these areas have been undertaken such as encouraging the generation of photovoltaic power and developing wind farms, building an electricity interconnector with Sicily and promoting the use of fuel-efficient cars. However, it is still too early to see the eventual impact of these initiatives so their implementation needs to be closely monitored.

               (16)

               The banking system in Malta is very large in proportion to the size of the economy, with total assets standing at around 800 % of GDP. The sheer size of the sector implies that disruptions to financial stability could have a disproportionate impact on the domestic economy. The global economic downturn brought about an increase in problematic loans, which however has not been accompanied by an increase in provisioning. In particular the large exposure to the real estate market, which accounts for over half of all loans to domestic residents, is a source of vulnerability especially as a further downward correction in property prices cannot be excluded, while housing units may currently be in oversupply.

               (17)

               Malta has made a number of commitments under the Euro Plus Pact. The commitments, and the implementation of the commitments presented in 2011, relate to improving competitiveness, fostering employment and fostering the sustainability of public finances. The Commission has assessed the implementation of the Euro Plus Pact commitments. The results of this assessment have been taken into account in the recommendations.

               (18)

               In the context of the European Semester, the Commission has carried out a comprehensive analysis of Malta’s economic policy. It has assessed the Stability Programme and the National Reform Programme. It has taken into account not only their relevance for sustainable fiscal and socioeconomic policy in Malta but also their compliance with EU rules and guidance, given the need to reinforce the overall economic governance of the Union by providing EU-level input into future national decisions. Its recommendations under the European Semester are reflected in recommendations (1) to (6) below.

               (19)

               In the light of this assessment, the Council has examined the Stability Programme, and its opinion (6) is reflected in particular in recommendation (1) below,

         HEREBY RECOMMENDS that Malta take action within the period 2012-13 to:

               1.

               Reinforce the budgetary strategy in 2012 with additional permanent measures so as to ensure adequate progress towards the MTO and keep the deficit below 3 % of GDP without recourse to one-offs. Continue fiscal consolidation at an appropriate pace thereafter, so as to make sufficient progress towards the MTO, including meeting the expenditure benchmark, and towards compliance with the debt reduction benchmark, by specifying the concrete measures to back up the deficit targets from 2013, while standing ready to take additional measures in case of slippages. Implement, by end-2012 at the latest, a binding, rule-based multiannual fiscal framework. Increase tax compliance and fight tax evasion, and reduce incentives towards indebtedness in corporate taxation.

               2.

               Take action, without further delay, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension system, comprising an increase in the effective retirement age, including through a significant acceleration of the progressive increase in the statutory retirement age compared to current legislation and through a clear link between the statutory retirement age and life expectancy, and measures to encourage private pension savings. Take measures to increase the participation of older workers in the labour force and discourage the use of early retirement schemes.

               3.

               Take steps to reduce the high rate of early school leaving. Pursue policy efforts in the education system to match the skills required by the labour market. Enhance the provision and affordability of more childcare and out-of-school centres, with the aim of reducing the gender employment gap.

               4.

               Take the necessary further steps to reform, in consultation with social partners and in accordance with national practices, the system of wage bargaining and wage indexation, so as to better reflect developments in labour productivity and reduce the impact of prices of imports on the index.

               5.

               In order to reduce Malta’s dependence on imported oil, step up efforts to promote energy efficiency and increase the share of energy produced from renewable sources by carefully monitoring the existing incentivising mechanisms and by prioritising the further development of infrastructure, including by completing the electricity link with Sicily.

               6.

               To strengthen the banking sector, take measures to mitigate potential risks arising from the large exposure to the real estate market. Take measures to further strengthen the provisions for loan impairment losses.

      Done at Brussels, 10 July 2012.

            For the Council

            The President

         V. SHIARLY

      (1)  OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1.

      (2)  Maintained for 2012 by Council Decision 2012/238/EU of 26 April 2012 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (OJ L 119, 4.5.2012, p. 47).

      (3)  OJ C 215, 21.7.2011, p. 10.

      (4)  OJ L 306, 23.11.2011, p. 25.

      (5)  Cyclically-adjusted balance net of one-off and temporary measures, recalculated by the Commission services on the basis of the information provided in the Programme, using the commonly agreed methodology.

      (6)  Under Article 5(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1466/97.


Avis juridique important

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32002H0576

Commission Recommendation of 4 July 2002 on the results of the risk evaluation for the substances: ethyl acetoacetate, 4-Chloro-o-cresol, Dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride (Text with EEA relevance) (notified under document number C(2002) 2490)

Official Journal L 181 , 11/07/2002 P. 0035 - 0039

Commission Recommendationof 4 July 2002on the results of the risk evaluation for the substances: ethyl acetoacetate, 4-Chloro-o-cresol, Dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride(notified under document number C(2002) 2490)(Text with EEA relevance)(2002/576/EC)THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,Having regard to Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 of 23 March 1993 on the evaluation and control of the risks of existing substances(1), and in particular Article 11(2) thereof,Whereas:(1) Article 10 of the Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 establishes the procedure to be followed for the risk evaluation of the substances on the priority lists at the level of the Member State designated as rapporteur.(2) Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94(2) outlines the principles for the assessment of risks to man and the environment of existing substances in accordance with Regulation (EEC) No 793/93.(3) The rapporteur Member State, after evaluating the risk of a given priority substance to man and the environment, should suggest, where appropriate, a strategy for limiting the risk, including control measures and/or surveillance programmes.(4) Article 11 of Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 provides that the results of the risk evaluation and the recommended strategy for limiting risks in respect to substances on the priority lists should be adopted at Community level in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 15 and shall be published by the Commission.(5) Article 1 of Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 provides that that Regulation shall apply without prejudice to Community legislation on the protection of consumers and on safety and protection of health of workers at work, in particular Council Directive 98/24/EC(3) on the protection of the safety and health of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work, Council Directive 90/394/EEC(4) on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to carcinogens at work and Council Directive 92/85/EEC(5) on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health at work of pregnant workers and workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding.(6) A first priority list identifying substances requiring attention has been adopted by Commission Regulation (EC) No 1179/94(6). This priority list provides, among other substances, for the evaluation of the following:- ethyl acetoacetate,- 4-Chloro-o-cresol,- Dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride.(7) The rapporteur Member States have completed all the risk evaluation activities with regard to man and the environment for the above three substances(7).(8) The results of the risk evaluation of the three substances concerned should be adopted at the Community level.(9) The Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment (CSTEE) has been consulted and has issued an opinion with respect to the risk assessment reports referred to in this recommendation(8).(10) The measures provided for in this recommendation are in accordance with the opinion of the Committee set up pursuant to Article 15 of Regulation (EEC) No 793/93,HEREBY RECOMMENDS:All sectors importing, producing, transporting, storing, formulating into a preparation or other processing, using and disposing or recovering the following substances:- ethyl acetoacetateCAS No 141-97-9Einecs No 205-516-1,- 4-Chloro-o-cresolCAS No 1570-64-5Einecs No 216-381-3,- Dimethyldioctadecylammonium chlorideCAS No 107-64-2Einecs No 203-508-2,should take into account the results of the risk evaluation as summarised in Parts 1, 2 and 3 of the Annex to this recommendation and include them, where appropriate, in the safety data sheets(9). These results were formulated in the light of the opinions delivered by the Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment (CSTEE).Done at Brussels, 4 July 2002.For the CommissionMargot WallströmMember of the Commission(1) OJ L 84, 5.4.1993, p. 1.(2) OJ L 161, 29.6.1994, p. 3.(3) OJ L 131, 5.5.1998, p. 11.(4) OJ L 196, 26.7.1990, p. 1.(5) OJ L 348, 28.11.1992, p. 1.(6) OJ L 131, 26.5.1994, p. 3.(7) The comprehensive risk assessment reports as forwarded to the Commission by the rapporteur Member States are publicly available. Short summaries are also available. Both can be found on the internet site of the European Chemicals Bureau, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection of the Joint Research Centre in Ispra, Italy (http://ecb.jrc.it/existing-chemicals/).(8) The risk assessment reports were peer-reviewed by the CSTEE. The CSTEE opinions can be found on the internet site: http://europa.eu.int/comm/food/fs/sc/sct/outcome_en.html.(9) In accordance with the provisions of Council Directive 67/548/EEC of 27 June 1967 on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances (OJ 196, 1.8.1967, p. 1), Commission Directive 91/155/EEC of 5 March 1991 defining and laying down the detailed arrangements for the system of specific information relating to dangerous preparations in implementation of Article 10 of Directive 88/379/EEC (OJ L 76, 22.3.1991, p. 35), Council Directive 98/24/EC of 7 April 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work (fourteenth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC, OJ L 131, 5.5.1998, p. 11) and Directive 1999/45/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 1999 concerning the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations (OJ L 200, 30.7.1999, p. 1).ANNEXPART ONE>TABLE>The risk assessment is based on current practices related to the life-cycle of the substance produced in or imported into the European Community as described in the comprehensive Risk Assessment Reports as forwarded to the Commission by the Member State Rapporteur.The risk assessment has, based on the available information, determined that in the European Community the substance is mainly used as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, plant protection products, stabilisers, additives, catalysts and other products. Other uses are in a wide range of household and cosmetic products, as a food additive, in the manufacture of colour films, as a paper impregnation agent and as a solvent in paints and lacquers. It was not possible to obtain information on the use of the total volume of substance produced in or imported into the European Community, therefore, some uses may exist which are not covered by this risk assessment.RISK ASSESSMENTA. HUMAN HEALTHThe conclusion of the assessment of the risks toWorkers, consumers and humans exposed via the environmentis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toHuman health (physico-chemical properties)is that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.B. ENVIRONMENTThe conclusion of the assessment of the risks to theAtmosphere, aquatic and terrestrial ecosystemis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toMicro-organisms in the sewage treatment plantis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.PART TWO>TABLE>The risk assessment is based on current practices related to the life-cycle of the substance produced in or imported into the European Community as described in the comprehensive Risk Assessment Reports as forwarded to the Commission by the Member State Rapporteur.The risk assessment has, based on the available information, determined that in the European Community the substance is used as starting material for the manufacture of herbicides. It was not possible to obtain information on the use of the total volume of substance produced in or imported into the European Community, therefore, some uses may exist which are not covered by this risk assessment.The risk assessment does not cover the possible risks caused by the presence of the substance as an impurity in certain herbicides nor does it cover the possible risks arising from the formation of the substance during environmental degradation of the herbicides.RISK ASSESSMENTA. HUMAN HEALTHThe conclusion of the assessment of the risks toWorkers, consumers and humans exposed via the environmentis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toHuman health (physico-chemical properties)is that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.B. ENVIRONMENTThe conclusion of the assessment of the risks to theAquatic ecosystem, atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystemis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toMicro-organisms in the sewage treatment plantis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.PART THREE>TABLE>The risk assessment is based on current practices related to the life-cycle of the substance produced in or imported into the European Community as described in the comprehensive Risk Assessment Reports as forwarded to the Commission by the Member State Rapporteur.The risk assessment has, based on the available information, determined that in the European Community the substance is not used as such, but is the main component of the technical product Quarterny Ammonium compound, bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethyl, chlorides (CAS-No 61789-80-8). This substance, in turn, is mainly used as a fabric softener and in the synthesis of organic clays. Other uses are as a conditioning agent in cosmetics (shampoos, hair conditioners, emulsifier in lotions) and in car washing agents. It was not possible to obtain information on the use of the total volume of substance produced in or imported into the European Community, therefore, some uses may exist which are not covered by this risk assessment.RISK ASSESSMENTA. HUMAN HEALTHThe conclusion of the assessment of the risks toWorkers, consumers and humans exposed via the environmentis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toHuman health (physico-chemical properties)is that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.B. ENVIRONMENTThe conclusion of the assessment of the risks to theAtmosphere, aquatic and terrestrial ecosystemis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toMicro-organisms in the sewage treatment plantis that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied. This conclusion is reached because:- the risk assessment shows that risks are not expected. Risk reduction measures already being applied are considered sufficient.


title: Council Recommendation (EU) 2016/212 of 12 February 2016 concerning the discharge to be given to the Commission in respect of the implementation of the operations of the European Development Fund (10th EDF) for the financial year 2014

text:
               16.2.2016

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 39/61

         COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION (EU) 2016/212
   of 12 February 2016
   concerning the discharge to be given to the Commission in respect of the implementation of the operations of the European Development Fund (10th EDF) for the financial year 2014
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
   Having regard to the Partnership Agreement between the members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States of the one part, and the European Community and its Member States, of the other part, signed in Cotonou on 23 June 2000 (1) and amended by the Agreement signed in Luxembourg on 25 June 2005 (2),
   Having regard to the Internal Agreement between the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States, meeting within the Council, on the financing of Community aid under the multiannual financial framework for the period 2008 to 2013 in accordance with the ACP-EC Partnership Agreement and on the allocation of financial assistance for the Overseas Countries and Territories to which Part Four of the EC Treaty applies (3) (the ‘Internal Agreement’) setting up, amongst others, the 10th European Development Fund (10th EDF), and in particular Article 11(8) thereof,
   Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 215/2008 of 18 February 2008 on the Financial Regulation applicable to the 10th European Development Fund (4), and in particular Articles 142 to 144 thereof,
   Having examined the revenue and expenditure account and the balance sheet relating to the operations of the 10th EDF as at 31 December 2014 and the Annual Report of the Court of Auditors on the activities funded by the eighth, ninth, 10th and 11th European Development Funds (EDFs) concerning the financial year 2014, together with the Commission's replies contained in that Annual Report (5),
   Whereas:

               (1)

               Pursuant to Article 11(8) of the Internal Agreement, the discharge for the financial management of the 10th EDF is to be given to the Commission by the European Parliament on the recommendation of the Council.

               (2)

               The overall implementation by the Commission of the operations of the 10th EDF during the financial year 2014 has been satisfactory,

         HEREBY RECOMMENDS that the European Parliament give the Commission a discharge in respect of the implementation of the operations of the 10th EDF for the financial year 2014.

      Done at Brussels, 12 February 2016.

            For the Council

            The President

         J.R.V.A. DIJSSELBLOEM

      (1)  OJ L 317, 15.12.2000, p. 3.

      (2)  OJ L 209, 11.8.2005, p. 27.

      (3)  OJ L 247, 9.9.2006, p. 32.

      (4)  OJ L 78, 19.3.2008, p. 1.

      (5)  OJ C 373, 10.11.2015, p. 289.


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		52013PC0632

			Recommendation for a COUNCIL DECISION on the approval of the conclusion by the Commission, on behalf of the European Atomic Energy Community, of a Protocol to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Albania, of the other part, to take account of the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union /* COM/2013/0632 final */

			   	EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM
On 24 September 2012 the Council authorised
the Commission to open negotiations, on behalf of the European Union and its
Member States and the Republic of Croatia, with Albania in order to conclude a
Protocol to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (of 1st April 2009) between the
European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic
of Albania, of the other part, to take account of the accession of the Republic
of Croatia to the European Union.
These negotiations took place on 19
November 2012 and on 10 January 2013. Following further technical
clarifications and correspondence, the Albanian authorities informed of their
agreement with the draft Protocol proposed by the Commission on 18 June 2013. The
text of the draft Protocol is attached.
The Commission proposes that the Council
decides on the signature and provisional application of the Protocol on behalf
of the European Union and concludes the Protocol on behalf of the European
Union and its Member States. The European Atomic Energy Community (EAEC) is
also a Party to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement. For the conclusion
of the Protocol on behalf of the European Atomic Energy Community, the
Commission proposes that the Council gives its approval, pursuant to the second
paragraph of Article 101 of the Treaty establishing the EAEC.
In accordance with Article 101 EAEC Treaty,
the decision to sign the agreement is adopted by the Commission and the
decision to conclude the agreement is adopted by the Commission with the
approval of the Council. It is therefore necessary to adopt separate decisions
for the signature and conclusion of the Protocol by the EU and by the EAEC.
For the conclusion of the Protocol on
behalf of the European Atomic Energy Community, the Commission proposes that
the Council:
·
gives its approval, pursuant to the second
paragraph of Article 101 of the Treaty establishing the EAEC.
Recommendation for a
COUNCIL DECISION
on the approval of the conclusion by the
Commission, on behalf of the European Atomic Energy Community, of a Protocol to
the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities
and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Albania, of the
other part, to take account of the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the
European Union
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing
the European Atomic Energy Community, and in particular the second paragraph of
Article 101 thereof,
Having regard to the recommendation from
the Commission,
Whereas:
(1)       On
24 September 2012 the Council authorised the Commission to open negotiations
with Albania in order to conclude a Protocol to the Stabilisation and
Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States,
of the one part, and the Republic of Albania, of the other part, to take
account of the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union.
(2)       These
negotiations have been successfully completed.
(3)       The
Protocol should therefore be concluded, also on behalf of the European Atomic
Energy Community as regards matters falling under the Euratom Treaty.
(4)       The
signature and conclusion of the Protocol is subject to a separate procedure as
regards matters falling under the Treaty on European Union and Treaty on the
Functioning of the European Union.
(5)       The
conclusion of the Protocol by the Commission, acting on behalf of the European
Atomic Energy Community, should be approved.
HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:
Sole Article
The conclusion by the Commission, on behalf
of the European Atomic Energy Community, of the Protocol to the Stabilisation
and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member
States, of the one part, and the Republic of Albania, of the other part, to
take account of the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union
("the Protocol") is hereby approved.
The text of the Protocol is attached to the
Decision of the Council on the signing and provisional application of a
Protocol to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European
Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Albania,
of the other part, to take account of the accession of the Republic of Croatia
to the European Union
Done at Brussels,
                                                                       For
the Council
                                                                       The
President


title: Recommendation for a Council opinion in accordance with the third paragraph of Article 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the 2001 update of Ireland's Stability Programme, 2002-2004

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